With more than 117,000 job applications submitted for fewer than 14,000 roles in the first quarter of this year, the new Student Job Search app could not have come at a better time.
The cost of living is high, and tertiary students already trying to balance work, study, and simply surviving financially feel the pinch more than most.
The mobile app for student jobseekers is now available and includes some exciting new features such as a live map showing jobs near you, and a Quick Apply function to cut down on repetitive admin. It is also the first job-seeking app in New Zealand with the built-in ability to upload an introduction video to help employers get to know you.
Student Job Search Chief Executive Louise Saviker says data from the first quarter shows student demand for paid employment remains strong. Many students are juggling multiple roles simply to maintain financial stability. Access to work is no longer just beneficial; it is critical.
“Demand continues to significantly exceed supply. When students cannot access sufficient work, the impacts extend beyond income to wellbeing, retention in tertiary education, Student Job and long-term workforce participation,” she says.
“At the same time, tertiary partners are reporting unprecedented demand for hardship support, reinforcing the critical role employment plays in enabling students to meet basic needs.”
The new app reflects Student Job Search’s ongoing efforts to connect more students with job opportunities, Louise says.
“As a charity, we’ve been connecting students with job opportunities for more than 40 years to help reduce student hardship. This app is going to take that to the next level.
“Students can now browse and apply for jobs from anywhere, whether that’s waiting for the bus, in line for coffee, or between lectures. Meanwhile, employers can rest assured that their job listings will be easily accessible and attract a wide range of applicants.”
Months of time and consideration have gone into making sure it is fit-for-purpose.
“We’ve involved more than 1500 students in the process,” Louise says.
“We surveyed them on what they look for in an app and held information gathering workshops before having students test the app in the final stages of development. We have been careful throughout to ensure we are creating something that meets the needs of today’s students.
“We’re not the first organisation to have a mobile app developed, but we are proud to have the first app tailored specifically for New Zealand’s job-seeking students.”
The Student Job Search app is available now on Google Play and the App Store.
