Stop procrastinating! When it comes to finding a work-study placement, the saying "Good things come to those who wait" couldn't be further from the truth!
Companies have already launched their recruitment campaigns… NOW is the time to take the plunge.
In the world of work-study searches, missed opportunities are unfortunately all too common.
Here's why: many students don't take the initiative before May or June… but companies are more forward-thinking and launch their recruitment as early as March or April. Most positions have already been filled by the time latecomers wake up just before summer.
In practice, by starting earlier you will not only have access to a wider range of opportunities, but you will also avoid the increased competition of the final months.
Before diving in headfirst, take the time to calmly think about what you are looking for.
Draw up the profile of your ideal work-study placement: which sector? what type of company? which geographical area? …
Answering these questions will help you focus your search and avoid wasting time on opportunities that don't match your expectations. Make the most of all the features on the tracking platform provided by the school to optimise your search.
An essential step before you start contacting companies left and right: putting together your CV, along with a few template cover letters you can adapt depending on the role and the company.
You are a student at a digital school that champions creativity and innovation.
Don't hesitate to make your CV and cover letter a showcase of your skills (while remaining professional, of course). After all, it's the first impression you'll make on recruiters.
Job boards are useful… but they're not the only tool at your disposal.
Activate your personal network (friends, family, former employers), as well as the school's network. And don't forget professional social networks. Leave no stone unturned!
No room for improvisation!
Succeeding in a job interview is not a matter of natural charm or talent, but of preparation.
For each opportunity, start by researching the company recruiting, the person who will be interviewing you, and the role you are applying for.
Take the time to identify your most relevant skills and qualities for the position. The recruiter won't simply take your word for it: back up your points with concrete examples.
If you don't have much professional experience, don't panic: look to your hobbies and personal experiences (volunteer work, sports clubs, travel…)
The search for a work-study placement can prove to be a long and challenging journey.
Don't give up at the first hurdle. Analyse your setbacks to learn from your mistakes, and keep your spirits up. One motto: persevere!
Digital Campus Strasbourg is here to support and guide you in your work-study search.
Don't hesitate to make use of all the resources available to you: CV workshops, cover letter and interview preparation sessions, partner company network, job dating events, personalised job postings…