Kathy Dubeau, a guidance and co-operative education teacher at Stephen Lewis Secondary School in Mississauga, Ont., has tips for students seeking summer work:
- Have a current well organized and professional looking resume
- Write an effective cover letter
- Use personal networks and contacts
- Brush up on potential interview questions
- Wear a suitable outfit for interviews
- Become familiar with job search websites, including the Federal Student Work Experience Program (http://jobs-emplois.gc.ca/fswep-pfete/index-eng.htm)
When applying for a first job, youth may feel they have little to put on a job application.
But volunteer jobs such as helping to run the school canteen, assisting a teacher with a special project and roles performed in clubs all provide experience in organization, working with others and following directions.
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Summarize activities to show your assets. Ten years of piano or dance lessons or several years as a member of a sports team display a strong work ethic and commitment.
Mentoring younger students or being a referee shows leadership skills.
Helping a parent fix machinery or tend a garden shows an ability to work with your hands.
This list will be useful for em-ployment but also for applications for scholarships and post-secondary education.
Once you’ve landed a job, re-member to have a good attitude and respect your employer.
You are representing that business and how you do your job reflects on the employer and company.
Be punctual, well groomed and ready to work. Turn the cellphone off and tell friends not to visit at work.
