6 tips on how to get a job
Student jobs aren't easy to find in Lancaster, or anywhere else for that matter. Thankfully there are a few hints and tips out there to help you get a handle on that overdraft.
Don’t be afraid to work for free
Everybody likes something free, simple. Offering your services on a trial basis is going to show that you are confident, determined and willing to demonstrate a sincere commitment to securing a job. Going into any company or place of work and proposing to contribute your time for FREE will earn you respect regardless of whether they take you up on it or not. If they do take you up on it, through your hard work you are likely to endear the employer to hire you on a paid basis. If they choose not to give you the position, then they may feel guilty and give you payment for the time you have volunteered. If they do neither, then at least you have earned yourself some valuable experience to can add to your CV.
Become a customer
Becoming a customer in some industries is going to be easier than others. If you are applying for a job in the catering or service industry, then simply buying a cup of coffee can immediately set the tone for the encounter. By making yourself a customer, your potential employer is automatically more inclined to listen. On first approach, rather than being someone who walks off the street clutching an armful of CVs and inquiring about what they can get, make sure you are someone who has initially already contributed their success. Returning your coffee cup; complimenting the interior décor or environment, and then inquiring about any available positions with interest, will put you ahead of the pack. It will give you a running chance of gaining an interview or even securing the job on the spot.
Taking a genuine interest and doing your research
There is nothing worse than insincere flattery and unpreparedness. When you walk through the doors of your target employer make sure that you are ready. A good start can be made by doing a little research into the history of the company; understanding how they have grown and what services they provide. Having even a basic grasp of what they are about will give you the vital fuel for discussion. A keen interest will also exemplify a serious work ethic by showing that you readily put extra time into tasks to ensure a higher standard. If you have this knowledge you are much more likely to be interested in the business. Otherwise, you risk becoming completely overwhelmed and coerced onto shaky ground.
The right attitude
When you are in correspondence with an employer, whether it be by email or in person, try to think about what you can do for THEM rather than what they can do for YOU. “I believe I can be a valuable asset to your business.” Is so much better than “Do you have any jobs going? I'd like to start working for you.”
A personal presence trumps any email
A human face is always better than an email. Make sure you utilise this opportunity to make a good first impression by appearing smart, confident and interested. Ask to speak to the person in charge of applications and tell them that you are very enthusiastic about working for them and that you would like to know more. Asking questions is a necessity in good human relations and by opening up a dialogue you are really demonstrating a will to work.Ask questions and make yourself interested, and people will be interested in you.
Presentation and appearance
Dressing in an appropriate manner is extremely important when applying for a job. A smart appearance suggests that you are taking the process seriously. It is also indicative of high levels of personal organisation and an awareness of the foundations of customer service.
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