It sometimes proves challenging for international students to get a relevant student job – firstly to find a study-specific job to apply for, and secondly to land it because there are many applicants.

Therefore, some students look for unskilled jobs, e.g. in the service sector, in order for them to get by financially while studying.

Other ways to get relevant experience

Though you wish to earn money, voluntary work can also be a way to gain skills, experience and network in Denmark.

If you're looking for an unskilled student job, here are some ideas:

• Deliver newspapers
• Cleaning companies (NB: Some cleaning companies require Danish language skills)
• Bars and restaurants
• Hotels are often looking for employees for the reception, cleaning, kitchen, etc.
• Temp agencies (NB: Some require Danish language skills)
• English speaking customer service at companies
• Food delivery
• “Facer” for charity organisations
• Job sites
• Airports
• Moving companies

How do I search unsolicited for unskilled jobs?

Hand-deliver your CV unless the company specifically asks you to e-mail it or register it through their website. Deliver your CVs in person at the different companies, restaurants, etc. Present yourself to the manager if possible, and express your eagerness to get a job.

Make a list from home, and be sure to note which companies seem interested, and whether they mentioned anything about specific deadlines for getting back to you. Some companies may say that they are not hiring at the moment, and that you should try again at a later point. Following up in the weeks and months after shows your motivation.

Read about unsolicited job search

When applying for unskilled jobs, a targeted one-page CV, including a short profile text, is often adequate and you do not have to write a cover letter.

A CV for an unskilled job should contain:

• Name and contact information
• A short profile text about you, tailored this job
• Relevant work experience (the newest jobs first)
• Education
• Voluntary work
• Skills and personal qualities
• Languages
• IT skills
• Other relevant information, e.g. driver’s license
• Spare time - about you as a person and your interests

You need to elaborate what competencies you have gained in your previous jobs – such as hard working, responsible, and smiling. Don't underestimate the fact that you have learned something in all jobs, and you must tell employers about it.

Do not focus too much on your academic skills.

The CV should give the employer a clear overview of:

• Your expected study period (i.e. how long you expect to study and thus how long you will be able to stay in this job)
• Your general availability for the job (amount of hours you can work weekly or monthly)
• Your language skills (status on Danish courses, and whether you are able to read, write, speak and understand some Danish)

Make sure that your CV stands out by creating a professional layout with a clear structure. Create your own design, use the templates in Word, or use Jofibo.