Tips for landing a ski season job?

I'd love to work at a ski resort for a season, but I'm not sure how to go about finding and landing a job. What is the best way to prepare and improve my chances of getting hired?

To increase your chances of landing a ski season job, given the seasonal nature of these roles, timing your application right is crucial. Many resorts begin hiring for the winter season in the late summer or early fall. This means starting your job hunt around August or September could give you an early edge.

Your first step should involve thorough research to identify the type of job you want, such as instructor, lift operator, hospitality or maintenance staff. Some jobs might require specific skills or certifications. For instance, if you want to be a ski instructor, having a certified ski instructor qualification would definitely boost your chances.

Once you’ve chosen your preferred job role, tailor your résumé and cover letter to highlight the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate. For example, if you are applying for a customer service role, emphasize your communication, problem-solving skills, and previous customer service experience.

Another effective way of increasing your chances of landing a job at a ski resort is by using your network. If you know someone who has worked at a ski resort before or currently works at one, they could potentially provide leads or even a reference.

Attending job fairs can also be beneficial. These often take place in the fall and are useful for meeting potential employers face-to-face. Preparing well for these interactions can leave a great impression and support your application significantly.

Furthermore, don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted application. Show enthusiasm for not just the role, but the lifestyle and location as well. Employers at ski resorts will be looking for candidates who are readily adaptable to the unique lifestyle associated with resort work.

Lastly, being flexible with your availability will be a significant advantage. Showing you’re willing to work holidays, weekends, or irregular hours can make you stand out as a desirable candidate. Keep in mind, however, that resort work can be challenging and may involve long hours or tough conditions, so make sure you're prepared for this lifestyle.

To summarize, timing your application right, networking, tailoring your job application to highlight relevant skills and attending job fairs can potentially improve your chances of landing a job at a ski resort. Flexibility and enthusiasm for the unique lifestyle associated with resort work could be real game-changers.