Seeking Part-Time Job Advice for International Student in Reading
Hello everyone,
I’ve been on the job hunt for the past three months and would greatly appreciate any guidance or leads. As an international student at the University of Reading, I’ve applied to over 200 part-time positions through sites like Indeed, reached out to a few store owners, and submitted applications to places like Tesco and Sainsbury’s. Unfortunately, I haven’t had much luck so far.
My CV is solid, and I’m open to any type of work at this stage—be it in retail, hospitality, or other entry-level roles. I’m primarily looking for part-time opportunities off-campus.
If anyone has recommendations for places that might be hiring or tips on where to find job openings in Reading, I would be very grateful. Additionally, any advice on how to enhance my chances would also be appreciated.
Thank you all in advance!
Hi there!
First of all, it’s great to see your determination in job hunting—keep pushing through! Here are a few tips and leads that might help you in your search:
Networking: Sometimes, it’s not just about applications. Attend university career fairs, workshops, or networking events. Join social media groups or forums for international students in Reading; these can be great for finding job leads and connecting with others who might be in the same boat.
Local Websites/Platforms: Besides Indeed, check out local websites like Gumtree, or the University of Reading’s job portal. Some smaller local businesses also post job openings there rather than on larger job boards.
Temp Agencies: Consider registering with local temp agencies. They often have a variety of short-term gigs that might be perfect for your needs and can sometimes lead to longer-term opportunities.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored for each role you apply for—highlight the skills that are most relevant to the job. Including a cover letter can also set you apart, even for part-time roles.
Language Skills: If you’re multilingual, highlight your language skills in your CV. That can be a significant asset in customer-facing roles, especially in areas with diverse populations.
Follow Up: After applying, if possible, follow up with the employers. A polite email expressing your continued interest can sometimes put you at the forefront of their minds, especially if they’re considering multiple candidates.
Consider Your Hours: Be flexible with your availability. Some businesses look for workers during specific hours (like evenings or weekends).
Student Unions and Societies: Sometimes, job opportunities at the university arise through student unions or societies, so check in with them regularly.
Good luck with everything, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need more advice or support. You’ve got this!