MAKING YOUR CV LOOK MERRIER
IF you’re looking for a job or to gain work experience, Christmas can be a great time to get work.
It can help you gain valuable experience, confidence and, of course, help pay the bills.
Regional manager for Belfast in the Department for Employment and Learning’s (DEL) Employment Service, Alison Lowry has the following advice: “Many retailers are planning to take on more staff in the run-up to Christmas.
“There is the potential for a significant number of temporary Christmas jobs in areas such as sorting offices, shops, supermarkets and the hospitality sector.”
* Keep your eyes and ears open for opportunities, and it’s worth paying a visit to your local shopping centre, as they may have a bulletin of current vacancies that the stores have available.
* As always, your CV is crucial. Make sure you adjust it to highlight the skills required for the Christmas jobs you’re looking at, such as customer service and communication skills.
You might need a few different versions depending on the line of work you apply for.
Always include a covering letter highlighting relevant sections of your CV, and other details like your availability.
* Don’t forget that if you’re claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), or any other benefits, you’ll need to let the relevant people know about any change in your circumstances.
* Before you leave your temporary job, don’t forget to ask your employer if they would act as a referee when you apply for other work.
Add the temporary job to your CV, even if you think it doesn’t match the type of the work you’re looking for, as a lot of employers think it’s better to have some work on a CV rather than a gap.
*Temporary posts can provide a gateway to longer term opportunities.
Make yourself a real team player, get along with colleagues and who knows, they may keep you on permanently.