Summer work after A-levels

Sooo A-levels are just about done (thank god for that) and I am looking into paid work to do over the summer. However I am not too sure on where to find paid summer work. Indeed has been giving me false hope 😭😭 it's such a scam. I am not too keen on retail however if it is the only choice, I'm down to do it.

Reply 1

MindMax2000

Universities Forum Helper

Original post by V3N0Mxx

It's really difficult to get jobs at this short notice.

Normally, people would do part time work throughout their studies so they can maintain some sort of pay and work experience.

If it's at this short notice, then I would go for seasonal work that is readily available. The typical work you would be looking at would be care or catering. Big companies tend to have cumbersome HR processes and long hiring cycles. If you go for the smaller firms (small or medium sized) with your speculative CV, you stand a better chance of getting in.
It's difficult to get work quickly using applications, so you are better off networking e.g. ask your friend who works at X to sort you out for a job where he/she works (include your CV). If you need to apply for work, you typically need to apply to 100 places to get about 5 invites for interviews, before you get 1 job offer. Networking can get you to jump the queue in getting shortlisted, provided you are the person who they are looking for.

Other types of seasonal work that you can look into include:

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Tutors (as an employee, as opposed to self employed)

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Freelancing (will be regarded as a business, so speak to an accountant if you decide to do this)

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Fruit picker

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Tour guide

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Customer service

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Summer camp

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Construction

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Manufacturing

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Warehouse

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Life guard (might need certification, depending on the employer)

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Resort staff

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Farm work

See:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/seasonal-jobs-that-pay-well
https://clockify.me/blog/workforce-management/seasonal-work/

Tips:

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If you need a specific qualification for the role (see their job profiles), then I would try to get it if it's something short and cheap e.g. lifeguard certification, CSS card

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Try to be as available as you can - be flexible with your hours

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Be willing to travel (if it's at a resort, they might offer you accommodation)

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If you don't have any work experience, try to have the professional qualifications to make you stand out and try to network your way in. Your CV should focus on your skills and qualifications where possible. You would have less leverage compared to other candidates, so be prepared to go the extra mile.