Here are some of our top tips on how to get a student job with the basic lesson to take away being: Put some effort in!

Take your time

Don’t rush job applications, CVs or cover letters. Take your time to read the questions and think about your answers. When it comes to CVs and covering letters, try and personalise them to the job rather than be generic, and put in more effort than just ‘See attached CV’.

Don’t limit your search to online

There are countless online job websites that have thousands of vacancies, but a trip up your local high street (especially if you’re in a big city) can yield far more promising leads. Local restaurants and independent shops in particular may snub the expensive online job boards for a simple ad in the window asking for paid help.

Consider the unusual

There are some obvious student jobs such as working in retail or catering, but there some perhaps more interesting ways to earn cash, such as becoming an extra or even a secret shopper. It may not provide as much regular income, but it’ll be quite a bit more fun and can sometimes pay surprisingly well.

via therichestimages.com

Actually prepare for interviews

If you’re invited for an interview don’t turn up late looking like you’ve just got out of bed, even if it’s for a trainee spot at a fast food outlet. Put some effort into your appearance and prepare answers to some of the inevitable questions, such as your strengths and weaknesses.

Is it worth it?

A job shouldn’t cost you more than it pays so make sure you consider whether or not it’s even worth it… and if you even can do it. That’s not in terms of qualifications (we’d like to think that didn’t need to be said) but whether or not you’ll have the time to. If a job requires a certain amount of hours or certain days that clash with your University work or other commitments, say no. If it’s going to cost you more money and time getting there than you’ll be paid, don’t bother applying.