Finding It Hard Looking for work?
As a student studying or about to study at Keele during the current economic crises you may notice it is becoming increasingly difficult to get a part-time job to help you finance your way through your studies and gain work experience.
Due to businesses closing down and staff being made redundant, the competition for each available job vacancy has increased, and to get ahead you need to make yourself ‘shine’ like never before!
The best ways to do this are:
Complete all application forms to the best of your ability and neatly. Put all your work or volunteering experience on the form no matter what country you gained the experience…All experience counts!
Read all job adverts properly and use any ‘skills’ words used in the advert e.g. reliable, organised etc. on the application form or covering letter.
Make sure your CV is perfect! Go to Keele Careers Service to get your CV individually looked over!
If you need to phone to enquire for a job; Ask for the appropriate person if specified on the advert, be polite, explain why you are calling;
E.g. “Hello I am interested in applying for the ****** job vacancy”.
Before ending the conversation thank them for their help. Do NOT be forceful with your conversation, employers do not owe you a job you must prove that you are worthy of employment!
Ensure your contact details on all correspondence are legible and correct.
Go to Keele Careers Service for information and advice on interview skills.
N.B. It is important to have a happy study / work / life balance. Remember that you are here to study and get the best degree you can whilst meeting new friends and having fun. Funding your studies is admirable but do not let it ruin your education!
Where To Look For Work
- Search the internet
- Jobcentre Plus
- Local newspapers
- Register with a recruitment agency
- Word of mouth
- Approaching employers
- Online networks
- On your mobile phone
For top tips and help finding work whilst at Keele download the document below!
Looking for Work
Recruitment Agencies
Local recruitment agencies can help to match you to work that is suitable for you both in term-time and vacation time.
Many agencies have both permanent and temporary work available.
Click here for a list of local recruitment agencies.