The Times Australia
The Times World News

.
The Times Real Estate

.

Looking for a summer or longer-term job? Here’s how to find one and avoid being exploited

  • Written by Grozdana Manalo, Career Services Manager (Education), University of Sydney

Getting casual work over summer, or a part-time job that you might continue once your tertiary course starts, can be a great way to get workplace experience and earn some extra money.

But it’s important to be cautious and to ensure you don’t get caught up with an unscrupulous employer who might take advantage of a young, inexperienced job-seeker.

The most common red flags to be aware of are unpaid or underpaid wages, unsafe working conditions or unfair treatment. But, before we get into that, where do you start?

How to find a casual or summer job

Recruitment agencies

Register with recruitment agencies that specialise in temporary or seasonal work – they can match you with employers looking for short-term staff, ideal for summer jobs.

It’s free to join, and all you need to do is submit your resume and contact details. A quick tip: a recruitment agent makes their income from matching prospective job seekers to roles, so make sure your resume is tailored to the industry you’re interested in.

Local papers and community boards

Despite the rise of social media, many summer jobs can be found in local newspapers or newsletters, or your community bulletin boards, especially for smaller companies and in regional areas.

Check your local libraries, supermarkets and shopping centres. Some businesses will also place a notice in their front window.

Social media

Follow your favourite organisations and brands on social media, as many will use their sites to advertise vacancies. Studies have shown more than 90% of employers[1] have used, or are planning to use, social media to find candidates.

An online job advertisement
Job vacancies can by found on a company’s website or on the sites of specialist and general recruitment agencies. ronstik/Shutterstock[2]

Online job portals

Employment websites such as SEEK, Indeed, GradConnection and Prosple allow you to filter roles by location, industry and job type. If you want to work for a particular company, go directly to its website and check the careers page.

Personal networks

Use your personal and professional networks. Let your friends, family and acquaintances know you are looking. People will often help or recommend you. Most job vacancies are filled via the hidden job market, without being advertised[3].

Now you’ve found a job…

Getting a job is the first step. Ensuring your wages, hours and other conditions are legal under the Fair Work Act[4] is the next.

Carefully read job descriptions

If an advertisement is vague and offers a promise of earning a lot of money for very little effort, as in the case of some work-from-home or remote jobs, it’s probably too good to be true.

Legitimate job ads provide detailed information about the role, responsibilities, required qualifications and experience, working hours and application process. Most importantly, an advertisement should include an email or phone number you can contact to get further information.

Do your research

Before you apply for a job, take the time to research the organisation. Look for reviews on websites such as Glassdoor – where former employees share their experiences.

Take a look at the company’s website, if it has one, to get an idea of the culture and values. If you find negative information, be wary. Sometimes a simple Google search will produce articles on a businesses questionable behaviour.

Ask for an employment contract

A written contract is necessary to protect your rights. A contract must outline your pay, working hours, working conditions, work health and safety issues. Before starting a job, the contract should be signed by both parties.

Read the Fair Work Ombudsman’s Guide to starting a new job[5].

A pen lying on top of a document on a desk It’s important to get a written contract outlining terms and conditions from your employer. alexskopje/Shutterstock[6]

Once you start working, keep written records of your hours and tasks. Keep a notebook or spreadsheet and track your hours and tasks daily. Also, keep records of all your payslips in case there’s an issue with your pay.

Safety and wellbeing

Safety is very important, especially if you are doing physical labour. Look for signs that your workplace follows local regulations and provides a safe work environment.

As well as physical safety, it is also important to protect your mental health[7]. Watch for signs of bullying, intimidation or other inappropriate behaviour by bosses or colleagues.

Trust your gut

If something doesn’t feel right throughout the process, it probably isn’t. If a potential employer can’t answer simple questions, or is reluctant to give you written documentation, those are red flags.

It’s better to walk away than risk being put in an uncomfortable situation. If in doubt, talk to someone you trust, such as family, friends or mentors.

If you don’t have anyone you can talk to, you can always contact the office of the Fair Work Ombudsman[8].

References

  1. ^ more than 90% of employers (www.forbes.com)
  2. ^ ronstik/Shutterstock (www.shutterstock.com)
  3. ^ without being advertised (www.hays.com.au)
  4. ^ Fair Work Act (www.fairwork.gov.au)
  5. ^ Guide to starting a new job (www.fairwork.gov.au)
  6. ^ alexskopje/Shutterstock (www.shutterstock.com)
  7. ^ protect your mental health (www.fairwork.gov.au)
  8. ^ Fair Work Ombudsman (www.fairwork.gov.au)

Read more https://theconversation.com/looking-for-a-summer-or-longer-term-job-heres-how-to-find-one-and-avoid-being-exploited-245754

The Times Features

Fast, Fun, And Fantastic Looking Gel Polish For Your Nails!

Today's women spend a lot of time and money on their beauty and fashion regime because they love looking their very best! Looking good makes you feel good, and let's face it, it...

Energy-Efficient Roof Restoration Trends to Watch in Sydney

As climate consciousness rises and energy costs soar, energy-efficient roof restoration has become a significant focus in Sydney. Whether you're renovating an old roof or enhan...

Brisbane Water Bill Savings: Practical Tips to Reduce Costs

Brisbane residents have been feeling the pinch as water costs continue to climb. With increasing prices, it's no wonder many households are searching for ways to ease the burde...

Exploring Hybrid Heating Systems for Modern Homes

Consequently, energy efficiency as well as sustainability are two major considerations prevalent in the current market for homeowners and businesses alike. Hence, integrated heat...

Are Dental Implants Right for You? Here’s What to Think About

Dental implants are now among the top solutions for those seeking to replace and improve their teeth. But are dental implants suitable for you? Here you will find out more about ...

Sunglasses don’t just look good – they’re good for you too. Here’s how to choose the right pair

Australians are exposed to some of the highest levels[1] of solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the world. While we tend to focus on avoiding UV damage to our skin, it’s impor...

Times Magazine

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Ride-On Sweepers

AI has had an impact on industries, transforming the way we live and work. One industry that has greatly benefited from AI is the field of cleaning equipment ride-on sweepers. These machines play a role in maintaining safe environments in different...

3 Solar Panel Warranty Categories You Should Know

A solar power system is a multi-decade investment. If its components degrade quickly over time, you’re likely to drive less long-term value from it. That’s why there’s a need to check whether each component comes with a rock-solid warranty. All so...

Sell You Car and Help the Environment while Receiving Top Cash in Brisbane

Are you tired of the high costs of maintaining a car? Do you want to do your part to protect the environment? One solution could be to sell your car to a car removal company and receive top cash in return. Cars contribute significantly to air po...

Interview with author Christian White. His latest book The Ledge is out now

What inspired you to write the book? I’d always wanted to write a coming-of-age thriller. The book started as a love letter to all the coming-of-age books and movies that shaped me as a teenager: Lord of The Flies, It, The Body / Stand By Me, The ...

The Best Office Gift Ideas to Give Your Colleagues

Gift-giving is a wonderful way of expressing gratitude and appreciation towards someone, and when it comes to the workplace, office gifts are an ideal way to show your colleagues, supervisors, and clients that you care. Office gifts not only show t...

How Digitalisation Reduces Cost: Exploring The Benefits Of Digital Transformation

Digital transformation is changing the way businesses operate, offering unprecedented opportunities for cost savings and increased efficiency. By leveraging the latest digital transformation tools and technologies, businesses can streamline their o...

LayBy Shopping