Cover important information upfront
Have all the information about employment ready for your new student worker.
Students may find it difficult to talk about employment and work conditions, particularly if this is their first job.
Young student workers say that they are reluctant to ask many questions initially. You can head off any misunderstandings early by being forthcoming with information early.
Pay
- Be sure to stipulate what the rate of pay will be for regular time, Sundays and public holidays.
- It is helpful to outline how students might earn extra money over their period of employment, either through pay rises, incentives, commissions and bonuses. Be sure to indicate at what time period they may be eligible for extra pay; it could boost their commitment and morale.
Job Description
- Student employees need to know the ins and outs of their job; they need to know what level of performance is expected of them. Being clear about expectations and job duties helps students take control of their positions; it helps them become more independent and this helps their professional development.
Training
- Students seek employment to learn new skills. Most will be very appreciative of any training that helps them feel more comfortable and secure in their new roles.
- Inform new employees if there will be a training period. NSW law stipulates that all training must be paid.
- Asking a new employee to shadow an experienced one is a good way to ensure they are familiar with the workplace and the job.
Rosters
- It is important to ascertain if the student will be available for the shifts you will assign. Discuss their school schedule and any other commitments which may interfere.
- Be clear about start times and finishing times. Many students rely on parents and carers for transport and will need to know when to ask for a lift.
- Employers of large numbers of students should re-write their shift schedules at the start of each term in order to accommodate changing timetables.
Probation
- Probation generally last three months but that may vary according to the applicable award or agreement. All probationary periods must be paid. They should conclude with a performance review so that new employees know that they are accepted and are secure.
Meals and Breaks
- NSW laws require that each employee must be provided with a minimum break of 30 minutes after five hours work. The break does not have to be paid time.
- Young workers are especially appreciative of any discounts on food consumed on the premises if the business is involved in the hospitality business.
Uniforms
- It is important to be clear about your expectations for what students should wear to work and any other conditions (like wearing a hair net in food preparation areas).
- Where required, uniforms are normally provided by the employer but are maintained by the employee. Be sure to be clear about whether the uniform must be returned if the student leaves your employment.