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Tips on finding the perfect job
If
you're looking for work, then now is the time to plan and lay a
foundation for landing that cool job you really want. Apply for
jobs that interest you. Make sure you are familiar with job applications
and have all the information you need to complete them.
The first
step you need to do is decide on the summer job you want or need -–
in terms of the type of job, the location, the hours, the pay. You may
not be able to find a job that meets all your needs, but you should
strive to find one that meets as many as possible.
You will need
to develop a resume and cover letter. One of the keys to getting
noticed is having a first-rate cover letter showing your potential
employer how you would be the ideal candidate for them. Put forth a
professional image if you present a professional-looking resume to
potential employers, or make it funky and imaginative if you are
applying for a creative type of position. Don’t go overboard and make
sure the information you include is relevant and up-to-date. Talk about
your skills in the resume. Call your references ahead of time and tell
them to expect phone calls. You can visit the MRC Career Services Centre
for tips on developing a good resume.
Networking will give you the highest chances of landing your ideal job. Use all
your available resources to land that ideal summer job. Talk with your
parents and older family members, your friends' parents, your teachers,
and any other adults you know and ask them if they have any contacts at
your ideal job's company. Give them copies of your resume.
Hit the
pavement, reading the newspaper want ads, and/or surfing the Web.
The Canada Job Bank is an excellent online resource. Their website
address is: http://www.jobbank.gc.ca. If you don't get any job leads
from the fourth step, you have to take action!
Interviewing for jobs is the final and most important step. Make
sure you know something about the company; develop answers to common
interview questions; think of a few questions you could ask; practice,
practice, practice with a family member of friend; dress appropriately
for the interview.
There are lots of
services available both on and off-campus to students seeking summer
employment. The MRC Career Services Centre is a great resource
for student job-seekers. You will also want to check out the Hire-a-Student offices located downtown on 12th Avenue
and 5th Street. Don’t forget that the City of Calgary has lots of summer jobs for students, many of them are outdoors. Get
started early and you’ll land yourself a job in no time.
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