How to Find a Summer Job in Ranching

So you want to find a summer job in ranching? The advantages are numerous. You will make long lasting friendships, enjoy the beautiful outdoors, learn different skills, how to communicate well with others and learn to be a team player among a long list of other things which will help you in the future.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

1. Use the Internet to do some research about working on a ranch. Find out if you have the qualifications to do the job. For some jobs you do not need any experience, but for others you will. There are quite a few Web sites set up specifically for finding a summer job in ranching, and you can even apply for some positions over the Internet.
2. Decide if you want to relocate for the summer and where you would like to go. There are different kinds of ranches, but the one most likely to be looking for summer help will be a guest ranch. There you will be expected to work with guests and the other employees.
3. Research each of the summer jobs available through the city’s chamber of commerce. Let friends and relatives know that you are looking for a summer job on a ranch. They may know someone who can give you a reference, or at least some good advice.
4. Write a cover letter and a resume after you have researched the jobs available and have picked some you would like to apply for. The cover letter should be a short paragraph that will catch the employer’s interest. Do not make it a long letter. You have to get them interested enough to read your resume.
5. Send or e-mail your cover letter and resume to each prospective employer. Follow up your submission with a phone call to make a personal contact with the employer and verify that they received and are considering your resume.
6. Think about what they may ask if they call or have you come in for an interview. Be prepared to answer whatever they may ask. During the interview you have the chance to sell yourself and demonstrate that you are the perfect candidate for the summer ranch job.

Tips & Warnings

• Always be honest and straightforward as to the experience you have for the job. Give good references as to whom they may call for information about you.
• If you are called for an interview, dress appropriately. The first impression is vitally important. Be confident and prepared to answer all their questions as honestly as you can.