Job Search Tools

Summer Jobs

Searching for a summer job? Looking for summer opportunities? Start looking early to get the job your want. Here are some simple steps to help you:

Step 1 – Determine what you are looking for

1. An experience related to your studies
   Consult “What can I do with my Studies?” to explore employment prospects and examples of job opportunities related to your field of study.



2. An On-Campus Experience
   Consult the Work-Study Program to explore job opportunities offered at the University of Ottawa. Please note that other job opportunities are available on campus, but are not necessarily posted. In order to find out more about the jobs that are not posted you will have to contact sectors on campus who recruit independently and make use of your contacts.



3. General Work Experience
   All job opportunities will give you the opportunity to develop or consolidate certain essential skills that are required in the job market. Ask your employers to provide you with a reference letter that acknowledges the competencies you have acquired with specific examples. With this in hand, it will be simpler to make the link between your work experience and your career goals.



4. International Experience
   Opportunities for internships, volunteering, and working full- and part-time in countries across the globe are plentiful, so it is important to prepare before embarking on your quest to find an international opportunity. The first recommended step is to identify what kind of experience you are looking for and in which country or continent.  For more information see the international FAQ (FAQ 5)



5. Be Your Own Boss
   There are many steps to take to become a successful entrepreneur. Do your research and take advantage of available advice and resources.  For more information see the start my own business FAQ (FAQ 7)
   There are many ways to gain experience. Take the time to talk to your friends, parents, professors, and/or an employment specialist and you will find a multitude of opportunities. Other than income, work can also satisfy other needs such as a mission, a desired status, or a realization of personal or professional goals.

Step 2 – Identify potential employers

Here are some resources that can help you find employers that you would like to work for:

1. Career Fairs
   
   • Participate in the Summer Job Fair to meet employers who are currently hiring.
   • Be prepared to have an updated copy of your resumé available upon request.


2. Company Websites
   
   • By section
   • By field of study
   Many companies post their summer employment opportunities on their website. Some also have recruitment campaigns for summer jobs. Take note that the information listed on the Canada411 website is equally useful in helping you research companies pertaining to your specific interests and field of study.



3. Job Search Websites
   Job search websites often have very appealing summer positions available. However, it should be noted that because more than 80% of jobs are not posted on websites, it is recommended that you use other methods of job hunting, such as networking.



4. Networking
   Networking is the art of establishing and maintaining contact with others. Although it is not always obvious, everyone networks everyday while conversing with others. Networking is essential when it comes to searching for jobs and making new contacts. Even though it can sometimes be intimidating, networking is a great way for employers to know your skills and accomplishments.
   Networking can be divided into three parts:
   
   • Direct – Individuals who you share a relationship with, such as a parent, friend or relative
   • Indirect – Acquaintances, such as an employer, professor, or family friend
   • New links – People who you have not yet met, such as a potential employer
   
   Meeting new acquaintances (or creating new contacts) can be difficult. Remind yourself that everyone you already know and people you meet at social functions may be able to help you in your job search. It is important to maintain these relationships, seize opportunities and apply innovative strategies when networking.
   
   To meet new people, we invite you to consult our resources on cold-calling and on information meetings.

Step 3 – Make sure that you have your job search tools on hand and updated

1. Resumé
   A resumé enables an employer to have a quick overview of all your work experience and personal accomplishments, and to determine if you are a suitable potential candidate for an interview.
   
   Suggestions :
   
   
   • Modify your resumé for each and every job application.
   • Check for grammatical errors.
   • Be concise.
   • Write a maximum of 1 to 2 pages.
   • Make sure that the information is legible.
   • Provide your employer with a neat and clean copy of your resumé.
   • Edit it yourself and ask a friend or an employment specialist for advice.
2. Cover Letter
   The cover letter is an essential component of your job search. Even though not all job offers require a cover letter, it is highly recommended that you attach one with your resumé. This will allow you to specifically explain why you would like to work for this particular organization.
   Suggestions :
   • Modify your cover letter for each and every job application.
   • Write a maximum of 1 page.
   • Do not repeat the same information as on your resumé.
   • Explain why you are interested working for your employer and provide examples.
   • Edit it yourself and ask a friend or an employment specialist for advice.
3. Job Interview
   This step is your chance to prove and sell yourself to an employer. Therefore, preparation for the interview is key. Prepare answers to possible questions asked by the employer. Observe your body language with either a video camera or in a mirror and practice with friends or make an appointment for a mock interview.

Step 4 – Applying

When applying for a position, it is important to apply as indicated by the employer: by email, through the company’s website or by another method. If there is no job posting for a job that you’re interested in it may be difficult to contact the person who is responsible for hiring. This is where any contacts you have through networking will be useful.

Suggestions

• Make sure that you send all required information to the employer. We recommend that you attach a cover letter even if it is not required.
• You can contact the potential employer if you have any specific questions about the job, unless you are told otherwise. Make sure to prepare all of your questions in advance.
• Even if there are no jobs currently posted by the company of your choice, it does not mean that they do not have any job openings. Do a search and make use of your contacts.

Step 5 – Follow-up

The follow-up is a step that can help you distinguish yourself from other candidates.

1. During a job search
   If you have an employer’s contact information, you can get in touch with them to ensure that they have received your resumé and cover letter. This not only confirms that your resumé was received, but also increases the chances of your resumé being read over twice. It also demonstrates to the employer that you are interested in the job.



2. After the interview or information meeting
   Take the time after your interview or information meeting to thank your potential employer.

Final Word

A summer job is an opportunity to acquire new experiences, confirm your interests and increase your networking pool. Therefore, take advantage of the experience and have a great summer!

Good luck in your job search.