There are a number of reasons why bar work is so attractive to students in college and university. The most important is that bar work is one of the few jobs where it’s really easy to find work that fits around the student lifestyle. Because bars rely on shift work and have long opening hours, they are ideally suited to fit into the timetable of a student, something which is always subject to change.
Although it’s unlikely that most students will be able to pick hours in most bars, flexible work is far more likely than what you’ll find elsewhere. Unlike retail work which can also offer flexible hours, bar work extends well into the evenings.
Due to their popularity these jobs are in high demand in student towns. Weekend work is especially sought after. The best way to avoid being left behind is to start inquiring early. This isn’t always easy if you live far away from the university or college, but you can ask on local forums and student sites which bars the most likely to accept staff. Many student bar staff will go home over the summer, so if you can move to university early — or stay over summer if you are already there – you’ll find it much easier to find work.
Bar work is great for students especially because many people will be working for the first time. Students are more likely to find work without experience than in many other industries and unlike other jobs, working behind a bar can be quite a sociable experience that many people thoroughly enjoy. It is hard work however and the pay isn’t always great, so it may not be the best option for everyone. Luckily because students are likely to be working part time, it’s unlikely that you will have to pay any tax.
If you to decide to working a pub, you will also find they have something to put on your CV when you graduate. Although working at a bar might not seem like something relevant when you are looking for a different career, it will show potential employers that you’ve not just relied on handouts and parents for money during your time at university. There are other skills that working in a bar will develop such as customer service, timekeeping and commercial awareness. It also shows that you have managed to not only complete your studies but balance your own personal life and a job, something that many employers find very important.