Prompt 1

"What is your strategy for searching for part time jobs? How does this affect your suggestions to students looking for part time jobs?"

Hmm, searching for part-time jobs can be quite tricky.  Certain students' time availability as well as ability to do said job can pose some huge limitations on getting a part-time job.  Not to mention, in Vermont location is very important for many students who predominantly use the bus system or walk, so commuting is also an issue to consider.  My own personal strategy for searching for part-time jobs starts with observing which jobs seem to be employing people like yourself.  This sounds shallow, however, if you walk into a store/restaurant/office and see that there is more than one college-aged person employed there, you might politely ask what job title that person is employed under.  It could be they are just a part-time intern, or they could be an employee.  If students already work in that office/restaurant/etc., chances are that the management offers positions with some flexibility for students that require little or no experience.

If you would like a part-time job where there seems to be no college-aged people who have been hired, ask to speak to the manager about entry-level part-time positions.  The worst thing that could come from asking is that you get "no" for an answer, but be obliging and thank them for taking the time to answer your question.

Always provide a resume when applying for positions, even if it's not required.  A well-polished resume could very well make you stand out from the slew of other student applicants, and although it might not insure a job offer it will certainly make an impression on the person hiring (i.e. when a position does open up you could potentially be the first person they contact). 

Also, cast a WIDE net.  Literally, sooner or later you're bound to get a bite, and if you don't get a response than follow up with the hiring manager by phone to double check that they received your application.  Persistence pays off, so that means not only checking in personally at establishments you think may be hiring, but it also means checking craigslist, local newspapers, and asking friends who are employed if there are any foreseeable job openings at their workplace.  On-campus hiring events like the annual babysitter mixer could be a great way to network and learn more about local part-time jobs.  Also, Catamount Job link can be a great resource, especially with its new resume upload option!