Whatever year of study you are, if you’re looking for jobs (part-time or summer work, internships, graduate jobs), there are still job vacancies to be found. 

Where are opportunities advertised?

You may find some vacancies are advertised on lots of general websites (eg sites like Prospects and Indeed) or on specialised job boards for some sectors. These more specific sites may be preferred by some employers, because they’re targeting those applicants interested in their field – going straight to their preferred audience.

For some types of jobs, speculative applications may be a good route. For instance, some employers with part-time, or ‘casual’ work available, may be able to recruit solely through speculative approaches, which saves them time and money. So raising your awareness of suitable companies is a good starting point for these sorts of possible opportunities.

Check out online job sites – the Finding Jobs and/or Job Sector pages give lots of job sites and other related resources.

Making applications

If you’re applying to an advertised vacancy, the employer should have stipulated the application method. This will typically be a CV or an application form. You may find smaller companies or employers with an ad hoc vacancy ask for a CV

Whichever they ask for, it’s important to follow the application instructions. It’s no good sending a CV, if they have explicitly said candidates need to complete a form, as they will probably just discount your application.

If you’re applying for a York Internships opportunity, check out our previous blog about getting application-ready.

Beyond the application stage

The chances are that if you’re successful at the application stage, you’ll be invited to interview or some further selection process. Some might be informal – for a part-time job, the employer might just ask to meet for a chat. Others (particularly for a graduate role) might be a bit more structured and formal.

Interviews could be face-to-face or via phone or video. Whichever you face, preparation is key – don’t try to just ‘wing it’! 

• Re-research the company and the role (not forgetting to check out any social media presence they have)
• Re-read your own application
• Think through how you will demonstrate your skills – what examples will you use?
• Practise answering questions by using Shortlist.Me

There’s more information on the Applying and Interviewing page, which covers CVs, application forms, covering letters, psychometric tests, interviews and assessment centres.

As ever, if you need further information, advice or support, Careers and Placements is here for York students. Contact us or book an appointment via Handshake.