How to find a summer job

Opportunities for certain roles are advertised early, especially when it comes to working abroad. If you’re in plenty of time, see Start planning your summer for more ideas.

But don’t despair if you haven’t planned ahead. It’s never too late to begin your search – lots of vacancies aren’t advertised until just before they start. With a bit of nous, it’s usually possible to find something to boost your bank balance and your CV too.

When it comes to summer work, there’s the usual trade-off between pay and appeal. The night shift on a production line may be brain-numbingly dull, but you’ll have more money to show for it than a festival job paying little more than expenses. Occasionally it’s possible to combine the two, but it may help to break things up. Four weeks of paid work with two weeks of volunteering to support your future career plans can bring you the best of both worlds.

A number of agencies specialise in seasonal and student jobs – search online for a selection. Check out your university or college careers office for any last-minute vacancies or in-house opportunities – universities often employ students over the summer period. Keep an eye on campus notice boards or approach departments such as conferences and hospitality, admissions or alumni to see if they need any support.

Lots of businesses require basic holiday cover so standard employment agencies are a good bet for temping jobs, from office to factory work. Local tourist attractions and leisure facilities often take on additional summer workers, and the events, bar and restaurant trades often need casual staff. Think about what’s near you and ask around.

Another approach is to find work in an area you like. If you love going to gigs, is there any bar work going at your local music venue? If you enjoy the theatre, can you get work as an usher? You won’t get the same experience as that of a paying punter, but an insider’s view and an income can prove a winning combination.

Can you turn your skills into money-making opportunities? If you’re studying languages, could you offer conversational French classes? If you’re creative, can you make and sell items at a local craft fair or online marketplace? If you’re a digital whizz, could you help someone with their website? Good at writing? What about paid blogging opportunities?

Check out sites like peopleperhour which post a wide range of short-term options.

And finally…make sure you don’t pay too much tax or national insurance and don’t underestimate how one thing can lead to another. Even in the most unlikely situations, you can discover a new skill or passion that paves the way for your future career.

The Business Support Helpline can answer simple questions about starting or running a business.

Get volunteering – the icould guide to finding volunteer opportunities.