In our younger days the summer season meant months of holidays, sun and time to see friends unencumbered by responsibilities… Sadly our summers now have to involve a little more work and wages if we want our CV to be a worthy competitor. But all is not lost when you combine work in summer with going abroad to seek out the sun.

The Exotic Option

Websites like TAW and BUNAC specialise in finding you jobs abroad for the summer, in Australia and America respectively. These destinations are not only practically guaranteed great weather but the lack of language barrier makes settling a hell of a lot easier. It is not a massive culture shock but still enough of a change to refresh and interest you.

The sheer distance can be a factor in the interest stakes as well. Though we are incredibly lucky to have such a diverse continent as Europe a hop, skip and a Eurostar away, it is good to stretch your wings a little further afield sometimes.

Jobs on offer in these places can include admin, bartender, cashier, clerk and retail positions. Though it may not be relating to your dream field, the fact that you went abroad and did something outside the box shows initiative, guts and other similar elements an employer would be interested in. If nothing else, you are sure to have more stories and sparkle than a person who lived at home and served in the local pub for months on end.

Euro Earning

If you are keen to stay more on the home radar, there are many options to choose from in Europe too. Take advantage of the numerous holiday resorts in Greece, France, Italy and Spain to cash in on the hospitality industry. You can search for jobs at the following websites:

• http://www.seasonworkers.com/summerjobs/resorts/
• http://www.resortjobs.com/
• http://www.summer-jobs.co.uk/summer_jobs_alps.aspx

A Bit Closer To Home

Of course you don’t have to go abroad in order to enjoy earning, there are plenty of opportunities in England too. Getting a temporary job in a café or pub that gets busier during the summer will tide you over money-wise as well as show employers that you are making an effort. There are some more off-the-wall options too; my friend worked at a local children’s theme park called Bewilderwood, scooping ice cream and running the rides. Quite an original form of employment, shame about the hideous orange uniforms though…

The main point about summer jobs is the impression it gives employers; namely, that you are keen for work and not afraid to do menial jobs in the meantime. And it doesn’t mean you miss out on holidays as you can plan weekends around the country to visit friends. You may explore more of England and discover new and exciting places our little old isle has to offer.