Finding employment can be a stressful endeavor, no matter what time of year it is. Unfortunately, that can be exponentially more difficult at the beginning of the school year. Between numerous competitors vying for the same job and finding the time for interviews between classes, not to mention the nerve-racking interviews themselves, it can be quite stressful.
Whether you’re looking to get your foot in the door for your project management career or you just need a little extra cash for the weekend, you should seek out anything that will give you a possible edge. With that in mind, we put together a few strategies that can help you find a job while in school this year.
So, grab your note-taking equipment and see what you can learn.
1. The Hunt
The first hurdle you have to overcome is actually finding a suitable job listing. Of course, keep an eye on school job boards and local classified ads, but just remember that a good number of your classmates are looking there too.
Get creative. Ask your instructors for leads. Research to find out which businesses or industries in your area have high employee turnover. Look for businesses that are hiring short-term workers, like restaurants and retail stores. And don’t forget the professional online job boards as well.
2. Keep an Open Mind
When it comes to finding a job, you have to remain flexible; you may not get the exact position or salary that you want. Even though you may have lots of experience tucked away in your handy childcare bag, parents may run extensive nanny background checks just for a part-time babysitting position. Alternatively, many other employers won’t consider part-time employees for full-time positions, and even if you’re willing to take a pay cut, that’s not always an option.
Be open to alternative job functions and flexible hours; you may be able to find something that works better with your school schedule. And don’t overlook the possibility of internships or temporary contracts; these can often lead to full-time job offers or even a foot in the door with a company you’ve been eyeing.
3. Create an Employable Online Presence
Whether it’s good or bad, what people post on social media matters, and employers are no exception. Before submitting any applications, scrub your social media profiles and review all of your online identities for anything that could be deemed inappropriate.
Be sure to also create a professional online presence for yourself; most employers will look you up before or after interviews, so it’s important to leave the right impression. Set up a LinkedIn profile touting your CBAP training or relative experience, write an engaging bio, and start building your network as soon as possible.
4. Utilize Your Resources
The best thing about being a student is the wide range of resources available to you. From career counseling and workshops to networking events and job fairs, your school’s career center can help you find the perfect gig for you. With their guidance, you can quickly create strong resumes and cover letters that will stand out from the crowd.
5. Practice Your Interview Etiquette
Once you’ve landed an interview and picked the perfect work outfit, it’s time to practice your manners. First impressions are key, and employers will pay attention to everything from the way you dress to how you answer questions. Do your best to stay calm, positive, and clear-headed during interviews, and ensure you come prepared with a knowledge of the company and its history. Also, be confident in your answers, and don’t forget to express a genuine interest in the job.
Remember, finding employment during school is far from an easy process, but it can be done. With these tips and a little bit of effort on your part, you should have no trouble landing the job that’s right for you.