In order to get a summer job, you need to know where to look. Networking can help you to find job opportunities. Networking can be described as talking with people who can help you reach your career goals, and it can be formal or informal. An informal chat with a neighbour or a formal scheduled meeting with a company manager are both examples of networking.
You can learn to network effectively by following a few simple rules:
* keep your visits brief;
* appear enthusiastic about the information your contact is sharing;
* never ask your contact to do your job search for you;
* view the meeting as an opportunity to gather information rather than as a job interview.
Some questions you might want to ask your contact are:
* How did you break into this field?
* Do you know of any companies that are expanding rapidly?
* Can I keep in touch with you?
The more people you network with, the better your chances are of finding a lead on a job. Everyone you have contact with can be part of your networking circle: family members, social acquaintances, co-workers or former co-workers, supervisors, graduates from your school, teachers and professors. Networking opportunities are endless.
Networking can help you find great jobs to match your interests and skills. Your contacts can help you learn what it is like to work in a particular industry. You can find out about different companies. Your contacts can help you research the training necessary for the job or career you want! This information and experience can be invaluable during a job search.
For individual assistance with your résumé, or for more information, visit the Vancouver SCCY between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m at 333 Terminal Avenue, call 604-666-HIRE (4473), fax 604-872-7423, or e-mail jacqueline.hoffman@servicecanada.gc.ca.
The Vancouver Public Library (VPL) and the Vancouver Service Canada Centre for Youth will also be conducting mobile offices for one-on-one assistance with resume / cover letter writing, interviews and getting hired at the following VPL branches:
* Renfrew Branch at 2969 East 22 Ave.: Mondays from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., June 23 to July 28
* Oakridge Branch at #191 – 650 West 41 Ave.: Fridays from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., June 27 to August 1
* Kitsilano Branch at 2425 Macdonald St.: Wednesdays from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., June 25 to August 6
To find an SCCY near you or for information on the Government of Canada summer work experience programs, call the Government of Canada’s Youth Info Line at 1-800-935-5555, touch-tone phone or teletypewriter line (TTY) at 1-800-926-9105. Job postings are available online at www.jobbank.gc.ca, under “Student/Youth Job Search,” “British Columbia,” “Vancouver/Surrey/Fraser Valley.” For more information on Service Canada services for youth, call 1-800-O-Canada or visit servicecanada.gc.ca.
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