Summer jobs tougher to get

Student Job Search is warning the current economic climate means there are less summer jobs available for students this year.

What can you do to increase your likelihood of finding a summer job quickly?

• Start early if you're looking for a job after graduation. Easy to say, hard to do while exams are going on. But at least make sure you're registered with FutureGrad if you're 2nd or 3rd year, since the best jobs on Student Job Search are often reserved for FutureGrad students.
  
• Ask your friends if they know of any companies hiring in your field.
  
• Check out companies which may have seasonal jobs like retail or hospitality - businesses still have a Christmas rush.
  
• Register with several recruitment agencies.
• Approach companies you like, and find out if they're hiring.
  
• Make sure your CV is up to date and formatted professionally.
• Use job sites such as TradeMe or Seek to find positions.
  

Be persistent, and remember there are lots of other people looking for work too, so you're not the only one. You'll find something. Also, try your best to save a week's worth of expenses to cover yourself in between the time that the unemployment benefit/ student hardship benefit starts, and the time you actually get paid. For a week you won't have any money coming in, so be prepared!