Cutting grass, serving drinks, running a cash register — the summer job picture for students in west Niagara looks pretty good, according to Joan Popowich, a job developer with the Employment Help Centre (EHC).
“Especially (for) students who are proactive,” said Popowich, who noted many sectors are hiring.
“Construction, landscaping as helpers starting out, hospitality (including the wineries) is also a big sector that lots of students like to get into, retailers as well, there’s local recreation centre openings.”
Wages run from minimum wage ($16.55 an hour for adults and $15.60 an hour for students younger than 18) and up.
While it may be necessary in some cases to apply for a job online, Popowich encouraged students to research and visit the employers they would like to work for and pursue work that interests them.
“Go in person, explore your (community) in person,” she said. “Go in and hand in your resume.”
For students 18 and older can register at EHC locations in Lincoln, Grimsby and West Lincoln for services including workshops and online training in health and safety and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), Popowich said.
EHC also helps people update and print out resumes and cover letters.
Popowich said students younger than 18 can make use of EHC’s resource centre, where they can access a job board that has information about employers who are hiring.
In addition, the centre can assist with creating new resumes.
For first-time jobseekers, Popowich said instead of a resume, students should create a marketing letter to give to prospective employers.
The letter should include information about the student, school programs in which the individual is excelling, jobs done around the house and any training acquired.
Popowich said students seeking summer work should attend job fairs, including one at West Niagara Secondary School on King Street in Lincoln on Tuesday, May 7, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
“Talk to every single employer there,” Popowich said. “Hand in your resume; you get one-on-one time with the employer, ask questions, you might even get hired the same day.”
Popowich said students should be proactive and start their summer job search before classes end.
“It also takes time on the employers’ side to filter through and pre-screen those resumes and call you in for interviews,” Popowich said.
She added students should keep handy a record of all the jobs they have applied for they can refer to should they get a call from an employer.
Students should also dress appropriately for a job interview and, once hired, stay off cellphones while working.
“Answer your personal calls or emails on our breaks,” Popowich said. “Be on time, you’re accountable for your role.”
Popowich said the centre is finding many employers are eager to rehire students from last summer.
“Especially if the student is interested in expanding their skill sets in that particular industry,” she said.
Popowich said employers are also open to giving motivated students their first summer work experience.
“Employers are willing to train and work with students and the key is willing to train if students are willing to learn,” Popowich said.
See employmenthelp.org for more information.
Students can also find summer job information at gojobs.gov.on.ca (click on the students and new professionals link) and at jobbank.gc.ca/youth.
Here are some tips from the Employment Help Centre for students seeking their first summer job:
- See what is available in your community online and in person;
- Research prospective employers and drop off your resume in person;
- Punctuality — if you get a job interview or job, be on time and have dependable transportation;
- Dress appropriately for the job interview or even if you are just dropping off a resume;
- Pass the word. Let family and friends know you are seeking a summer job. Do they know anyone who needs help?
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