Not every job is posted online. Many cafés, restaurants, retail shops and small businesses hire through word of mouth or by putting a sign in the window. As a student, approaching local businesses directly is one of the most effective ways to find part-time work — especially for evening, weekend and holiday shifts.
Why approach businesses in person?
- Less competition — you’re not competing with hundreds of online applicants
- Immediate impression — the owner meets you before reading a CV
- Flexible roles — small businesses often create positions for the right person
- Local convenience — you can work near your university or accommodation
Before you visit
1. Prepare your profile
Have a professional profile or CV ready. On NinoForge, you can build a profile with your education, skills and projects — then share a link or show it on your phone.
2. Know what you want
Be clear about:
- How many hours per week you can work
- Your available days (evenings? weekends? holidays?)
- What type of work interests you (customer service, kitchen, stocking, cleaning)
- When you can start
3. Research the business
Spend two minutes:
- Check their website or Google listing
- Note their opening hours
- Look for “Help Wanted” signs
- Check if they’ve posted on any job platform
How to approach
The introduction
Walk in during a quiet time (not during the lunch rush or peak hours). Ask politely:
“Hi, I’m [Name], a student at [University]. I’m looking for part-time work on [days/evenings/weekends]. Are you hiring, or would you consider taking on a student?”
If they’re interested
- Offer your profile link, printed CV or contact details
- Ask about the next steps
- Thank them for their time
- Follow up within a week if you don’t hear back
If they’re not hiring
- Thank them politely
- Ask: “Would it be okay if I check back in a few weeks?”
- Leave your contact details in case something opens up
- Move on to the next business — rejection is normal and expected
Where to look
Cafés and restaurants
Walk along busy streets near your university. Independent cafés and restaurants hire students more flexibly than chain establishments.
Retail shops
Small clothing stores, bookshops, gift shops and specialty stores often need weekend and holiday help — especially before Christmas.
Supermarkets and bakeries
Many have flexible shift systems designed for students. Ask at the service desk.
Hotels and hostels
Front desk, housekeeping and breakfast service often have part-time openings.
Follow-up template
If you left your details but haven’t heard back:
“Hi [Name/Business], I visited last [day] to ask about part-time work opportunities. I wanted to follow up and confirm I’m still interested and available. My profile is at [link]. Thank you for considering me.”
Send this by email, leave it in person, or use a messaging platform the business prefers.
Tips
- Dress neatly — first impressions matter, even for casual jobs
- Be respectful — you’re asking for their time
- Visit 5-10 businesses — the more you visit, the better your chances
- Don’t take rejection personally — most businesses aren’t actively hiring
- Keep a list — track where you’ve been and any follow-up dates
- Bring a friend — job hunting in pairs can boost your confidence (but approach businesses individually)
Introduce NinoForge to the business
If the business doesn’t use a hiring platform, you can mention NinoForge:
“There’s a free platform called NinoForge where you can post job listings and review student profiles. You can register at ninoforge.com.”
You’re not selling anything — you’re sharing a useful tool. If they’re interested, they can register independently at ninoforge.com/seasonal-hire/for-employers/.
Build your professional profile for free on NinoForge before approaching local businesses.