A co-op
Co-ops are a definite option for university students. In certain universities, it is as simple as signing up in your university and waiting to be called. It is imperative for you to choose the department where you wish to do your co-op very carefully. Also, do not wait until your last year of university to consider a co-op, you may wish to use this option before your preultimate semester of studies.
The strategy of taking these options is that you are able to prove your worth and value to hiring managers so that there is no questioning if you “fit” the departmental culture. Also, these category of jobs provide you with the ability to be bridged in thus avoiding the burdensome and long Post Secondary Recruitment Process.
When choosing the department for your co-op keep two things in mind:
1) Is there any link with your university and a high ranking official in the department of choice?
2) Will the work of the department match your personal and academic goals?
Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP)
FSWEP also provides secondary and post secondary students with a great opportunity to get their foot in the door leading to a possible government job in Canada. While a student must require a co-op as part of their educational studies to be considered, a FSWEP applicant can study any field. Although competition is higher in FSWEP than Co-ops. A student has a good opportunity to obtain a position.
Tips to make your job permanent
Regardless which route leads you to a temporary government of canada job, here are some tips to make your job permanent:
- Work extremely hard – Unfortunately, most students get the work that no one else wants to do (i.e. Statistics, re-writing reports, research projects and the like).
- Dress professionally – Everyone is aware that you are a student but that is no excuse not to dress professionally. Shorts and sandals are not appropriate. Yes, you may see certain co-workers dress like that but the large majority are in permanent position
- Become a “yes” person – You will have to accept all assignments and work that come your way. If you find it burdensome, you may wish to highlight to your supervisor that you need help on prioritizing your duties (which gives them a chance to see how much you have on your plate).
- Network – Be pleasant to everyone and try to work with as many people as possible.
- Keep out of office politics – You are there on a mission. Do not get distracted by people’s issues.
- Make your interests known- Everyone who works with you should know what your background is, what you are studying, and that you would love to work full-time at the Government of Canada.