Writing a CV and covering letter
for a part-time job
Introduction
Finding part-time work whilst at university is important for most students to help pay for
expenses you will occur during your time here. Nottingham is a vibrant city with
successful businesses which recruit students on a part-time and temporary basis.
Nottingham has a large student population so competition for posts can be fierce.
Typical student vacancies tend to be:
• in certain industries or job areas for example within hospitality, retail,
manufacturing. Job roles include bar worker, catering assistant, factory worker,
shop assistant, exam invigilator and waiting-on staff
• temporary for a fixed period of time
• part-time – 15 hours or less
• evening or weekend work
• require little previous experience, and
• require minimal training.
Sources of vacancies
Read our leaflet Do you need to earn some money? which describes sources of
advertised vacancies, how to approach companies directly rather than waiting for a
vacancy to be advertised and help for international students. The leaflet is available
through our website at www.nottingham.ac.uk/careers/students/resources/leaflets/
or pick up a copy from our resource area.
Applying for jobs – what is the employer looking for?
When employers advertise jobs, they will usually provide details about the type of
person they are looking for in terms of personal skills and qualities and in some
instances, previous experience. For example, in an advert for a sales assistant, the
employer may state that they want someone who is a good communicator, who can
work in a team and is friendly and polite.
Applying for job – how to make an effective application
You need to demonstrate to the employer through your CV that you have the skills,
personal qualities and experience that they have specified in the job advert or person
specification. You need to give examples of when you have used the skills or evidence of
experience.