How to Find Your First Job as a Student

Starting your first job as a student is an exciting time. With some preparation and persistence, you can land a great entry-level position that will help you gain valuable skills and experience. Follow these tips to begin your professional journey while still in school.

Update Your CV

The first step is to make sure you have an updated CV that highlights your education, skills, and any previous work experiences. Check out a professional CV template on the Adobe website to get ideas on how to format your CV and make it stand out.

Tailor your CV specifically for each job you apply to by emphasising the most relevant experiences and skills. Have someone proofread your CV to catch any spelling or grammar errors.

Explore Your Campus Career Centre

Most colleges and universities have career centres that provide invaluable services to help students find jobs and internships. Meet with a career counsellor to get advice on your CV and cover letters. Ask about upcoming job fairs, recruitment events, and employer information sessions. These are all great opportunities to connect directly with companies looking to hire students.

Sign up for career centre workshops on job searching, interviewing, networking and other professional development topics. Check your school’s job portal regularly for on-campus and local job openings.

Search Online Job Boards

Websites like Indeed, Monster and LinkedIn are excellent resources to find entry-level and part-time job openings in your desired field or location. Set up alerts to get notified when new relevant postings are listed.

Look for openings at smaller local businesses that may not have the resources to recruit on campus. Avoid scams and sketchy posts by researching companies before applying.

Network and Make Connections

Networking is crucial when job searching as a student. Talk to professors, academic advisors, coaches, supervisors from previous jobs and family friends. Let them know you’re looking for work and ask if they can refer you to any opportunities.

Attend career fairs and company events to introduce yourself and gather business cards from recruiters. Join professional associations related to your major or industry to expand your network. Make connections on LinkedIn with people working at companies you’re interested in.

Apply for Internships

Pursuing one or more internships related to your major and career goals is highly recommended. Internships allow you to gain substantive work experience and are a great way to transition into full-time employment after graduating.

Use your school’s resources to find and apply for competitive internships. Look for paid positions to help cover expenses, but don’t rule out unpaid roles at reputable companies if the experience would be worthwhile.

Cast a Wide Net with Your Job Search

Don’t limit yourself to just one or two ideal companies or roles during your search. Apply to as many relevant positions as possible, even if they aren’t your top choice. With entry-level jobs especially, you may have to take what you can get at first to start building up experience.

Consider broadening your search to include similar roles in related fields or industries. Be open to unexpected opportunities that can help you develop new skills.

Prepare for Interviews

Once you start getting calls for interviews, you want to be ready to make the best impression. Print several copies of your CV to bring along and review the job description and your qualifications thoroughly before each interview.

Practice responding to common behavioural and situational interview questions. Prepare examples of times you demonstrated skills like teamwork, responsibility and problem-solving.

Dress professionally in formal attire and arrive 10-15 minutes early. Make eye contact, give firm handshakes and send thank you notes after to show your enthusiasm.

Consider Alternatives Like Temp Agencies

If your search isn’t going well, explore alternatives like staffing and temp agencies. While not an ideal long-term solution, taking short-term temp assignments can help you gain experience, expand your network and provide income while continuing your job search.

Have Realistic Expectations

Your first student job likely won’t be your dream career. But working part-time while in school can teach you transferable skills that will help throughout your professional journey. Don’t get discouraged by rejection and be willing to start small.

With hard work and perseverance, that barista or cashier job can lead to bigger opportunities down the road. Focus on doing your best, making connections and learning as much as possible.

Starting your career as a student takes effort and dedication. But following these tips can help you secure an entry-level job and gain invaluable experience that will serve you well. With the right preparation and positive attitude, your first position can become the launching pad for a rewarding career after graduation.