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Summer jobs: A survival guide

Sweating, trembling, confusion, headache-these are symptoms of a disease, right? True, but they're also symptoms experienced by those looking for seasonal work. Yet looking for a summer job isn't difficult. If summer for you means serious job hunting and hay fever rather than sunbathing and parties, then check out the Service Canada Centre for Youth (SCCY). No, we don't sell antihistamines, but we can help you find a job. First and foremost, your local SCCY offers a job-posting service; job listings can be viewed on site. You can also view all job offers in Service Canada's database by visiting www.jobbank.gc.ca.

When it's time to write your résumé, the SCCY will help you find a way to overcome blank-page syndrome. The SCCY offers help with drafting a résumé, tips for interviews, and labour market information-everything you need to be well prepared.

There are two important questions you should ask yourself before starting to look for a job. The first is "What do I want?" You may tell yourself you just want to work, but take a minute to think it over. Do you really want to spend the summer doing a job you don't like? Consider also that you will perform a lot better at the interview if a job really interests you. It's better to perform very well at a few interviews than to go to lots of interviews for jobs you're not interested in. So before you start looking, it's very important to decide what your needs are and what you want.

The second question is "Where can I go?" Think about where to submit your résumé by considering your interests, availability, and how far you're willing to travel. By targeting specific companies you'll avoid applying for jobs that don't meet your criteria. Start with companies you already know something about. The Yellow Pages can be a useful starting point for researching new opportunities. However, don't forget that the best resource is word-of-mouth-that is, having contacts. "But I don't have any connections!" you may be saying. It's not so much about knowing someone who owns a company; it's more about asking people you know to keep their eyes and ears open to help increase your chances of finding a good job. For example, maybe your uncle Bob works in a garage that needs help for the summer. If he knows that you're looking for work, he'll give you a head's up. Tell people that you're looking for summer work and you'll be surprised at the opportunities and great ideas that come your way, just by chance.

Now you're ready for success in finding a summer job!

This article has been provided by Youth Café - A Service Canada Centre located in downtown Montreal that offers youth the necessary tools for a full and active social participation, all in one place.

The Café's mission is to offer better access to information, services, programs and ressources from most federal departments as well as the Youth Employment Strategy.

We ecourage you to visit Youth Café next time you are in Montreal or visit a Service Canada Centre near you.