Maybe it’s a home-based business that would interest you? Where do your talents lie? What’s your available time? Do you have a large personal network that could assist in promoting a new home-based business? This could all involve formal training or something that you are considered expert at (or maybe something that you just really like to do!). Perhaps you’re a great photographer. Maybe you’re a good proofreader or editor? Interior decorating, story writing, carpentry, and the like are all areas of expertise that you could utilize to start making extra money, as well as rescue you from the “nine to five” grind. If you are a good cook, you could start a small micro-enterprise, such as a catering business. You could then market your business by word of mouth among your friends, relatives, and neighbors until it gets established. The Internet is also a great place to advertise any new venture that you may set your sites on.
If it’s a more traditional part-time job you’re seeking, then be sure to have an up-to-date resume so that you can submit it along with a targeted cover letter to places you would like to work. Note, though, that the majority of part-time jobs are not even advertised. More often, unadvertised openings are discovered through friends, family, and acquaintances, so it might be a good idea to start your job search with them. Tell everyone you know about the type of position you are looking for, and you might be surprised at the leads you get simply because you put the word out there!
You should also make sure to research your potential employers. The more you can learn about an organization, the more likely you are to find out if working for it would be a good experience for you. Gaining knowledge about a potential employer gives you a much better chance of connecting your skills to the employer’s needs. A good way to acquire this knowledge is to review employer websites, contact businesses for brochures and publications, or have a conversation with an employee who works there. Some other time-saving tips that will help you find a more traditional part-time job are:
- Be Prepared. Make sure you have a reliable way for the employer to get in touch with you, whether it be through a voice mail system or via cell phone.
- Use Job-Search Engines. Search the part-time job sites you see on the Internet. This will enable you to search quickly for part-time jobs in your area.
- Apply Directly Online. Many organizations accept online applications.
- Check Want Ads. Review the help wanted ads in your local newspaper regularly.
- Apply in Person If Possible. Applying in person can sometimes be the best way to make a good impression.
- Bring Necessary Information. Bring the information you’ll need to fill out an application, including names and addresses of previous employers, dates of employment, references, and a resume.
- Have References Ready. Have a list of three references (or at least two), including names, phone numbers, and email addresses, ready to give to interviewers.
- Keep Track. Make a list of the companies you’ve applied to. Try to follow up with a thank-you card or note if possible.
- Get Help. Utilize free or inexpensive services that provide job-search assistance, such as career services offices, Department of Labor offices, and your local public library.
- Network. Many job openings are not advertised. Tell everyone you know that you are looking for work. You never know who someone may know. It could be the connection that gets you that job!
