Finding part time work

Published on 27 September 12

Having a part time job whilst studying is a great way of topping up your income and gaining valuable experience that could just give you that edge when it comes to applying for jobs after graduation

Why should I get a part-time job?

As well as the extra cash, the skills you can gain from part time work can be exactly what graduate employers are looking for. Decision making, organisation, team working, customer service and time management are all important skills which graduate employers will be looking for. Even if it's not related to your dream career, a part-time job can help you provide employers with evidence that you have these skills.

Although the extra experience - and income - of part-time work is extremely valuable, we recommend that you work for no more than 15 hours a week during term time, to ensure you can maintain the right balance between work, studies and rest.

Where should I look?

The Careers Service advertises part-time jobs that are suitable to fit around your studies. Their Careers Link service only lists current vacancies from trusted employers.

Here are some other places that may have suitable vacancies:

Where can I get help applying for jobs?

The Careers Service isn’t just for finding jobs after graduation, they can offer advice with interview skills, CVs and searching for the right jobs throughout your time as a student at Manchester and for three years after graduation.

For more information, the Careers service has put together a booklet giving some really useful tips, advice and guidance when it comes to applying for jobs. You can also make an appointment to speak with an advisor by contacting the Careers service or visiting them in Crawford House, Booth Street East (opposite the Aquatics Centre).

If you're more of a social media animal you could look up the careers Facebook groups, which are tailored to different subject areas. Find your course's Facebook group here.

 

There are also a wide range of workshops that are run by the Careers service that range from finding part time work to application form skills sessions. Check here for a list of upcoming  events and fairs and how you can sign up to them.

Don't get stung by bogus jobs

If you are unsure about the reputation of any employers, be cautious when dealing with them and don’t give them bank details, personal information or sign any forms if you are not entirely sure of what you’ve been given. Check here for some advice about the warning signs of scam jobs, and if in doubt check with the Careers Service.

There are laws in place to protect people from unfair treatment as an employee, which deal with issues such as minimum wage, working hours and your personal details. To find out more about employment rights and issues, read more here.

For further advice check the Careers Centre for more guidance

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