How to find a part time job

Part-time jobs can be useful sources of extra money for students, working mums, retired people and anyone seeking extra money. Many employers actively seek to recruit part-time workers, since they often don’t have to pay them the same benefits as full time staff. Whilst the recruitment process for getting a part-time job is often less formal than for permanent posts, it’s important to be professional in the way you go about it. Following our guide below should help you secure a good part-time job.

1. Go local. Your own neighbourhood can be a valuable source of part-time job openings. If you’re interested in working in retail, you can apply in person simply by visiting local shops and stores. Often they will have a bulletin board for vacancies – if not, ask. A personal application, if you are polite and well-presented, can often result in a part-time job.

2. Go online. Visit the sites that focus on part-time job openings. You can also find listings of national employers who hire part-time workers. Then search by the category of employment you are interested in, such as hospitality or nursing, to find possible part-time leads.

3. Read the paper. Many local papers have a separate section for part-time jobs. The help wanted ads can also be a useful source of part-time work. If you have specific skills to offer, you might consider placing an add offering your services on a part-time basis.

4. Dress smartly. You may not need a resume or cover letter to get a part-time job, but you will probably be interviewed at some point in the process. Avoid extremes of dress and pay attention to your grooming, making sure your hair and fingernails are clean. If you are asked to interview, remember to take along the information you will need to fill out an application form.

5. Be prepared. Increasingly, employers use telephone interviews as part of their recruitment process. When you’re looking for a part-time job you should be prepared for a phone interview at a moment’s notice. You can prepare for this is the same way as a standard interview by compiling a list of your strengths and weaknesses and rehearsing a conversation about your background and skills.

Following this guide should help you get the part-time job you are looking for.