Jamaica's top human resource and business executives are warning students that jobs this summer will be much scarcer than before, and those that are available will be going to the youths who are most competitive.

"For the summer job programmes that are out there, it's going to be a very challenging time, especially because of what is happening globally," Omar Azan, head of the Jamaica Manufacturers' Association, told The Gleaner.

Azan said that, in light of the still-ongoing global economic crisis, youths needed to be much more aggressive in their actions if they hope to be among the 2009 summer employment pool.

"I think for students and youngsters looking for summer jobs, where you used to put out 10 applications, I think you need to put out 40 applications," Azan advised.

Increasing the number of applications is not the only measure youths need to urgently note, however.

Timing, according to Colin Barnetthead of the Human Resource Association of Jamaica, is also absolutely critical.

"If you are looking for summer jobs for this year, let me say you are slightly late. Most companies would be placing people by April, May," Barnett said.

Michael Jones, senior vice-president of human resources at Scotiabank, supported Barnett's argument.

Early applications

Jones said the bank would still be trying to have a summer programme despite the tough financial times.

Though the size and other variables of Scotiabank's summer programme this year are still unknown, the edge, Jones noted, will be given to early applicants.

"The key is applying early so that whatever the size of the programme, you will have an advantage. An early application would provide a greater chance of success," Jones said.

The executives also gave tips they believe would be critical for youths venturing out into the corporate world this summer.

Aim for experience

Barnett says youths should not be too selective by restricting themselves to their particular area of study and interests, but that they should seek out jobs that are available across the board. He also warned against looking for large paycheques this year, but instead for valuable job experience.

"Take what you can get and don't necessarily be looking at a salary," the exec warned.

"While maybe in the past they (companies) may have been trying to increase what they offer to summer employees, they may now either be reducing that amount or holding it steady," he said.

Azan remarked that, after all the applications had been sent out, one factor that separates 'the men from the boys', 'the gold from the dregs' and so forth, is the interview, if one is given. On this point Azan also gave counsel.

"In terms of the interview - if you go in for an interview, you have to do whatever it takes to get that job. From the way you groom yourself, to being on time - you have to be that much more competitive."

andrew.wildes@gleanerjm.com