Finding work when jobs are scarce

Write or update your CV

Gather information for your CV

• Make a list of your skills, and write down examples of how and when you have used these skills.
• Make sure you have copies of any awards and certificates you have been given.
• Decide who will be your referees. A referee could be an employer, teacher or coach. They need to be able to give you a verbal reference about your work skills and character.

• Figure out your skills - learn how to identify what skills you have
  

Writing your CV

• A CV should be short - two to three pages at most.
• Write about your work experience, this is often more valued than qualifications.
• Get someone else to read over your completed CV.

• CVs – getting started
• CV styles - find out which type of CV would suit you best

Find out about jobs

Do your homework on the types of jobs you are looking for. Things to consider are:

• What job opportunities are available in your region?
• What skills or qualifications do these jobs require, and how they match your own?

You can find out about entry requirements for different jobs, and the chances of getting a job, by looking in our job database.

• Jobs database – look up jobs to find out their entry requirements and your job chances

Tips on looking for work when competition for jobs is high

It may take some time to get work, but the simple tips below may help you find a job faster.

• Take job hunting seriously. It should be an active and planned campaign, not something you do casually in between surfing or seeing friends.
• Be prepared to take on part-time work – working one or two days a week can lead to more work if you prove yourself in the role.
  
• Consider working more than one job. For example, you could work two days a week picking apples, four nights in a bar, and one day in a bookshop.
  
• Know what your transferable skills are. What skills do you have that are useful in many workplaces?
• Make sure your contact methods are appropriate for job hunting and regularly check your texts, voice messages, LinkedIn and Facebook pages/content.
• Make sure your CV is up to date, and that you're ready for any interviews. (This means practising answering interview questions, and doing your research on any potential employer.) This will help you make a good impression.
  

• Preparing for an interview
  

Approach employers directly

Many jobs are not advertised on job vacancy websites or in newspapers. It's always wise to look beyond the job ads when looking for work, but it's especially important during an economic downturn. When jobs are scarce, competition for each position advertised increases greatly, making it tougher for you to find work.

If you can contact employers yourself, and find vacancies before they're advertised, you'll help your chances.

• Contact employers directly - how to get in touch with employers, and what to ask them

Look for holiday or seasonal jobs

Try doing some volunteer work

You could also try volunteer work. Though you won’t be paid for it, it may help you find paid work in the long term, as it helps you to develop your skills, build a work history, and get references.

• Volunteer to work in industries where you’ll develop key skills.
• Talk to your school careers adviser/Gateway teacher. There may be a chance to get work experience over summer at the business where you did your work experience placement.
• Volunteer to lead or help supervise holiday programmes at the local YWCA, YMCA, city council, or district council.

• How voluntary work can help with your career decisions
• Volunteering NZ website - search for volunteer vacancies
  

Find out more