When they arrive on the seasonal job market this year, students will come up against a higher unemployment rate. Here are some tips for preparing well and standing out.
Statistics Canada reveals that the unemployment rate of young people aged 15 to 24 (returning to studies in the fall) exceeded 20 % in May. It is more than 3 percentage points more than last year. It is therefore not surprising that many of them have not yet managed to find a job for the current summer. Although this situation is explained by several factors, including economic fragility due to global uncertainty and protectionist measures, the fact remains that it is quite possible to stand out even if you do not have much experience to your credit. Don’t panic! Here are some tips.
Value all your experiences
Internships, school projects, implications in its environment and volunteering are valuable sources of real experience, even if they are not linked to traditional employment. These experiences help you develop essential skills, as well as paid job, and to demonstrate your commitment. It is therefore important to include them in your CV. Moreover, if you do not get a short -term job, remember to volunteer in your community during your free time, you will thus build a recognized experience for a future job.
Take care of your CV and cover letter
A well -written CV and cover letter can make the difference. Highlight your extracurricular experiences, your volunteer, your internships and your major school projects. Use relevant keywords and show how your experiences and skills can bring value to the company. Pay attention to details (layout, formatting, etc.) and have your documents reread to avoid any spelling misconduct.
Prepare for a spontaneous interview
Even if young people often prefer to send their CV electronically, do “door to door” and meet employers in your neighborhood can be paid if you get a spontaneous interview.
Interviews are often the decisive moment to convince the person who hires you. Think about your answers to classic questions, such as your strengths, weaknesses and motivations, and have concrete examples in mind to illustrate your answers. For example, if you talk about your ability to work in a team, quote a project where you have collaborated with other students to achieve a common goal. You can speak of “transferable skills” such as organization and sense of responsibility.
Be ready for a situation of the genre “How do you react to an unhappy customer?” ». Do not forget to ask questions to the employer, this demonstrates your interest in the position and the company. Questions like “What will my typical day look like?” Or “What is the biggest challenge for a new employee? Could help you stand out. Make sure you have a careful appearance, to be dressed in a suitable way and smile!
Bet on your human skills
Reliability and team spirit are essential qualities sought by all employers. Show that you are someone on whom you can count. A motivated, curious and who wants to learn is often preferred to someone more experienced, but little resourceful. Express your enthusiasm for the position and the business, and express your desire to invest yourself fully. Knowing how to express themselves, listening and asking questions demonstrates maturity. Take care of your exchanges, whether in writing or in person, because good communication is a major asset, especially in sectors where interaction with customers is required.
Beyond job offers
There are many resources to help you in your job search. Youth-employment crossroads (CJE) offer free support from the age of 16, in particular for the development of your CV, networking and participation in workshops (career orientation, interview preparation, etc.). These centers can also put you in contact with potential employers and offer you internship possibilities. Do not hesitate to request them to get personalized help and advice. Several online platforms offer basic free training, but which can be useful on subjects such as customer service or first aid.
Network remains a powerful tool to find a job. Wordmade also remains an effective way to get a job. Inform your entourage, family and friends of your job search and ask them for ideas or get in touch with people who could help.
Finally, know that several employers use summer jobs as a trial period or recruitment source for permanent jobs. If you stand out, you might not only be recalled, but outright be hired part -time. Show that you want to stay in touch or evolve within the company.
Even if the job market is more difficult this year, these job research and interview experiences will serve as a foundation for the following years. Show tenacity because the needs of employers can change quickly. Good research!
