Finding a part-time job at university

Right to work documentation

So you’re looking for a job? Before you can be employed you must complete a right to work check to prove you are eligible to legally work in the UK. The type of documentation you use as proof of this eligibility depends on where you live. If you are a British or Irish citizen you can prove your right to work using either a passport, a birth or adoption certificate, or a certificate of registration or naturalisation as a British citizen. If you are not a British or Irish citizen you can prove your right to work using your immigration documents or a ‘share code’ which can be obtained online

Where to look for work?

So you’ve got your right to work check documents ready, but where do you actually find a job? An easy way to find work is often through your university! UoB actually offers flexible, part-time job opportunities to students on campus. Students are allowed to complete a maximum of 15 hours of work per week during term time to make sure you still have lots of time for your studies!

You can also apply for part-time jobs outside of university such as in a local café or care home. Indeed.com is an easy and accessible employment website which can help you find these ‘off campus’ part-time jobs.

And finally, take any opportunities that are thrown your way! You may find that what you thought would be one day of volunteering actually ends up leading to a paid job role!

Applications and interviews

So you’ve found a job that you want to work at! That’s great, but how do you actually get the job?

After you’ve found where you want to work, you need to start thinking about your application. Many jobs will ask for a CV and a cover letter explaining why you would be the best person for the role. Some applications may have questions to prompt your answers, but the most important aim is to get across what makes you as an individual stand out from the crowd. What makes you better for the role than the person sat next to you? What experiences or skills do you have that make you the ideal candidate? This is the perfect time for you to show off you skills and experience and explain why you would be perfect for the role. Make it personal, make yourself stand out.

If your application is successful, you may be asked for an interview with your future employer. A great way to prepare for interviews is to practice responses to example questions in advance!

Getting paid

You’ve got the job! Congratulations! But how do you actually get the money you’ve earned?

On your ‘pay day’, you will be given a monthly payslip which lists the hours you’ve worked, the amount of money you’ve earned and any tax that has been taken. It’s always a great idea to keep track of your hours each week just in case there is a mistake in the payment process so you have a record of what you should be paid!

Now you’re ready to get a part-time job! Good luck!