Life in the mountains as a nanny

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Ski nanny on the slopes

What’s life like in the mountains as a nanny ? M.J., who works with Merinannies during wintertime, tells us all you want to know about being a nanny at the world’s most beautiful ski resorts.

Living and working during winter in the mountains

If you love children, hot chocolate, and stunning snowy views, then working as a ski nanny is the perfect job for you. If you are considering it right now, you might be feeling nervous- I was nervous when I first started and unsure of what to expect, but now, after four years as a ski nanny, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

What to expect working as a nanny

The day in the mountains often begins early, sometimes around 6:30, sometimes later, and my first task is, of course, making a healthy breakfast and planning children’s activities for the day. Packing some playdough and cutters, paint, junk boxes, pasta shapes, paper plates, scissors, glue, glitter, paper and books keeps every age happy.

 

Usually, some older children have ski lessons, so I need to drop them off, keep in contact with the ski instructors and the parents, and remain nearby in case any unexpected needs arise. Once the lessons are over, we have some lunch, play outside and head back to the chalet and unwind for the afternoon activities.

Ski nanny with children

You’ll never be short of fun or creative activities here. Children absolutely love baking cookies and making their own pizzas! They never get bored of doing winter crafts like making ski-themed collages, cotton ball snowmen, and pinecone bird feeders!

 

When the kids are bursting with energy, we make the most of our afternoons with outdoor adventures. We build snowmen and have snowmen competitions, go sledding, treasure hunts in the woods, swimming, ice skating, visiting the playground or farms, and return to the chalet with a big smile on the face and ravenous for dinner! After dinner, we unwind with a movie, or a classic board game, enjoy a bath, get into pyjamas, and get ready for bedtime with a book-just what the children need after a long day. As they settle down, it’s time for me to narrate everything about our day’s adventures to their parents.

Building bonds with children and parents

Working closely with families, especially in an intimate setting, unavoidably leads to deep connections. As soon as I meet the family, I make it a priority to understand the dynamics and preferences. I am open, detailed, and clear when communicating with parents. I always seek their input and insights, and listening to their needs-it’s one of the key skills you need to have as a nanny. Besides, for those families, I’m not just a nanny but a mentor and friend.

What it takes to be a ski nanny

Working as a nanny during the ski season needs lots and lots of energy and enthusiasm. This job involves lots of outdoor activities! Flexibility and adaptability are crucial, as is quick problem-solving. I must be highly organised to manage schedules around ski lessons, meals, and activities. Above all, a passion for working with children, skiing, and creating memorable experiences is a must.

Overcoming the challenges

If you’re an avid skier, you know that living in the mountains has its own unique set of challenges. You need to walk on icy roads, handle cold temperatures and unexpected weather disruptions, like sudden snowstorms, that can throw off plans. In those cases, you just need to remain calm and…flexible.

Another challenge is extremely excited or tired children. I need to manage drained children, crying babies missing their parents, or those who get overly excited and want to sprinkle glitter all over the chalet! How can you not empathise with them?

Finding a home away from home

Taking a selfie on the slopes

Life in the mountains is not just about work. If you are worried about having time for yourself, don’t worry. You will have the best time of your life. I make time to hit the slopes during breaks or days off. There’s something incredibly refreshing about being able to ski on a free day. And there’s something very exciting about trying new activities. My favourite? Outdoor swimming!

Let’s not forget one of the most enriching parts of being a nanny in a ski resort is experiencing the local culture. In the Alps, you get to taste traditional alpine dishes like fondue, raclette and goulash soup, and be part of a number of local festivals and fun events that make each day something to look forward to. Last but not least, working in a ski resort is all about community. It’s very easy to meet and socialise with people working in the Alps. I spend evenings with my international friends, sharing stories of the day, enjoying dinners, or being part of the best nightlife the resorts have to offer.

An adventure like no other

Working as a nanny in the Alps is an adventure like no other. The combination of mountain life, working with children, and being part of a vibrant seasonal community creates an experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding.

Blog post in cooperation with Merinannies

To work as a Nanny in the Alps have a look here

 

https://bit.ly/3YgEwDw

 

The day they flooded Tignes and created the dam

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The Creation of the Tignes Dam: A Village Submerged in History

Nestled high in the French Alps, Tignes is now synonymous with skiing and world-class alpine sports, but beneath this winter wonderland lies a story of displacement and sacrifice. The construction of the Tignes Dam, or *Barrage de Tignes*, marked a turning point in the region’s history, both in terms of engineering prowess and the impact it had on the people who once called the original village of Tignes their home.

The Need for the Dam

After World War II, France faced a massive task of reconstruction and rebuilding its economy. To support this, the French government looked to increase its production of hydroelectric power, which was seen as a clean and efficient source of energy. The Rhône River, which flowed through the Alps, offered significant potential, and plans for a series of dams, including one at Tignes, were put in place.
The dam was designed to harness the power of the Isère River, a tributary of the Rhône, and create the Lac du Chevril reservoir. Construction of the dam began in 1948, and when completed in 1952, it stood at an impressive 180 meters tall, making it one of the largest in Europe at the time. The dam was not just a symbol of post-war recovery; it became a significant source of electricity for the region and the country at large.

The Submersion of Tignes

Tignes (Savoie), France, April 1952

While the dam’s construction was an engineering marvel, it came at a cost. The village of Tignes, which had existed for centuries, was located in the valley that would soon be flooded to create the dam’s reservoir. For the 400 or so villagers who lived there, it meant that their homes, farmlands, and the history of their ancestors would be lost beneath the waters.
The decision to submerge Tignes was met with resistance. The villagers fought hard to save their homes, appealing to the government, and even organizing protests. However, the needs of a growing nation’s energy supply outweighed the preservation of the small alpine village.
In 1952, the evacuation order was given, and the inhabitants of Tignes were forced to leave. Many were relocated to a new village, built nearby, known today as Tignes-les-Boisses. Despite the protests and the emotional toll, the authorities pressed forward. The church, the school, and homes were demolished, and by April of 1952, the valley was flooded.

The Day the Bells Rang

One of the most poignant moments in this chapter of history was the final farewell to the village. Before the floodwaters began to rise, the church bells of Tignes rang out one last time. This event became a symbol of the villagers’ sorrow and loss. It was a poignant reminder that beneath the artificial lake lay the bones of a community that had existed for generations.
The bell-ringing ceremony drew national attention, with journalists and politicians gathering to witness the final moments of the old Tignes. For many, it was a tragic illustration of progress taking precedence over the past.

Life After the Flood

Though the physical village of Tignes was lost, the people who had once lived there were determined to keep their community alive. Many relocated to the newly constructed village, while others moved further afield. Over time, Tignes transformed into one of the world’s most famous ski resorts, attracting millions of visitors each year. The new Tignes, made up of several smaller hamlets including Tignes-le-Lac and Val Claret, became a hub for winter sports and alpine tourism.
For the former residents of the original village, there remained a sense of loss, but also pride in the fact that their home had contributed to France’s recovery and modernization.

Legacy and Memory

Today, the Lac du Chevril, formed by the Tignes Dam, is a serene and stunning alpine lake, with the dam standing tall as a reminder of the past. Every few years, during times of low water levels, remnants of the old village re-emerge from beneath the water, a ghostly reminder of what once was.
In recent decades, memorials and commemorations have been held to honor the former residents and to ensure that the story of Tignes is not forgotten. What was once a remote alpine village is now part of a global destination, but the memory of its history continues to resonate.

Conclusion

The creation of the Tignes Dam is a story of both triumph and tragedy. On one hand, it symbolizes France’s post-war revival and its commitment to modern energy solutions. On the other, it represents the sacrifices made by a small village and its people. As tourists carve down the slopes of Tignes, few may realize that they are skiing above the submerged history of an alpine village, but the story of Tignes endures, beneath the water and in the memories of those who lived through its transformation.

La Niña and Its Impact on Snowfall in the European Alps

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As winter approaches, skiers and snowboarders eagerly await the first signs of snow. For ski resorts in the European Alps, understanding weather patterns is crucial to preparing for a successful season. One significant climate phenomenon that can influence snow conditions is La Niña. But what exactly is La Niña, and how does it affect snowfall in the European Alps? Let’s dive in.La Nina snowfall

What is La Niña?

La Niña is part of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, which describes fluctuations in temperature between the ocean and atmosphere in the east-central Equatorial Pacific. While El Niño is characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures, La Niña represents the opposite: cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. These temperature variations can have wide-reaching impacts on global weather patterns.

How La Niña Influences Global Weather

La Niña’s cooling effect on the Pacific Ocean can alter atmospheric circulation patterns, which in turn affects weather conditions around the world. In general, La Niña is associated with:

  • Increased rainfall in Southeast Asia and Australia
  • Drier conditions in the southwestern United States
  • Colder winters in parts of North America

These shifts in weather patterns can also extend to Europe, particularly the European Alps, where La Niña can play a significant role in winter conditions.

La Niña’s Impact on Snowfall in the European Alps

For the European Alps, La Niña often brings a mix of favorable conditions for winter sports enthusiasts. Here’s how:

  1. Increased Snowfall: During La Niña years, the Alps typically experience wetter and colder conditions. This combination can lead to increased snowfall, providing a substantial base for ski resorts. More frequent and heavier snowfalls can be expected, creating excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
  2. Lower Temperatures: La Niña’s influence tends to bring colder air masses to the region. Lower temperatures are crucial for maintaining snow quality, as they prevent the snow from melting and ensure that it remains powdery and ski-friendly. Cold conditions also make it easier for resorts to produce artificial snow, further enhancing the skiing experience.
  3. Variable Weather Patterns: While La Niña generally promotes snowfall, it also introduces more variability in weather patterns. This means that while there might be periods of heavy snowfall, these could be interspersed with drier spells. Ski resorts need to be prepared for these fluctuations to make the most of the snowy periods and manage operations during the quieter times.

Preparing for a La Niña Winter

For ski resorts in the European Alps, anticipating a La Niña winter can be both exciting and challenging. Here are a few ways resorts can prepare:

  • Enhancing Snowmaking Capabilities: Even though natural snowfall may increase, investing in snowmaking equipment ensures that slopes remain well-covered throughout the season.
  • Flexible Operations: Being ready to adapt to variable weather patterns means having contingency plans for both heavy snowfall and drier spells.
  • Safety Measures: With increased snowfall comes a higher risk of avalanches. Resorts must prioritize safety by regularly assessing avalanche risks and maintaining clear communication with guests.

Conclusion

La Niña holds the promise of a snowy, picturesque winter for the European Alps. Ski resorts can look forward to enhanced snowfall and prime skiing conditions, making it a potentially fantastic season for winter sports enthusiasts. By understanding and preparing for the effects of La Niña, resorts can ensure they provide an exceptional experience for all their visitors. As always, keeping an eye on weather forecasts and staying adaptable will be key to making the most of what La Niña has to offer.

So, as the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, get ready to hit the slopes and enjoy all that a La Niña winter has in store! 🏔️❄️⛷️

GHIC for healthcare

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Understanding the GHIC for UK Residents Working in France

As a UK resident working in France, navigating healthcare systems can be daunting, especially with the recent changes following Brexit. One crucial document you’ll need is the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). This blog post will walk you through everything you need to know about the GHIC, ensuring you’re well-prepared for healthcare needs in France.GHIC

What is the GHIC?

The GHIC, or Global Health Insurance Card, is a scheme introduced by the UK government to replace the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) after Brexit. It entitles UK residents to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in EU countries, including France, under the same conditions as local residents.

Who Needs a GHIC?

If you’re a UK resident planning to work in France, the GHIC is essential. It provides a safety net, allowing you to receive necessary medical care without bearing the full costs. This is particularly beneficial if you’re moving for work, ensuring you’re covered from the moment you arrive.

How to Apply for a GHIC

Applying for a GHIC is straightforward and free. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the NHS Website: The application can be completed online through the official NHS website.
2. Provide Personal Information: You’ll need to provide details like your full name, address, National Insurance or NHS number, and date of birth.
3. Proof of UK Residency: Ensure you have proof of your UK residency status as this will be required.
4. Wait for Processing: Once submitted, processing can take a few weeks, so apply well in advance of your move.

Using the GHIC in France

Once you have your GHIC, using it in France is relatively simple:

1. Carry Your GHIC: Always carry your GHIC card with you. You’ll need to present it when seeking medical treatment.
2. Visit Public Healthcare Providers: The GHIC only covers state-provided healthcare. Ensure you’re visiting public hospitals and doctors.
3. Coverage Extent: The GHIC covers necessary treatments, which are those that cannot wait until you return to the UK. This includes emergency treatments and ongoing care for chronic conditions.
4. Out-of-Pocket Costs: While the GHIC covers many costs, you may still need to pay some fees, known as co-payments, similar to what local residents pay. You can often claim these back through your travel insurance.

Important Considerations

– GHIC vs. EHIC: If you have an existing EHIC, it remains valid until its expiration date. After that, you’ll need a GHIC.
– Long-Term Stays: The GHIC is designed for temporary stays. If you’re planning a long-term move or have permanent residency in France, consider additional health insurance options.
– Private Healthcare: The GHIC does not cover private healthcare. If you anticipate needing private medical services, separate insurance will be necessary.

Additional Health Insurance

While the GHIC is a valuable tool, it’s not exhaustive. Many UK residents working abroad opt for additional health insurance to cover gaps. Comprehensive expatriate health insurance can offer peace of mind, covering private healthcare and any additional costs not included under the GHIC.

Conclusion

The GHIC is an essential card for UK residents working in France, ensuring you have access to necessary healthcare without prohibitive costs. By understanding its coverage and limitations, and planning accordingly, you can focus on your work and life in France with confidence. Always carry your GHIC, be aware of the healthcare system in France, and consider supplementary insurance to cover all bases.

For more detailed information and to apply for your GHIC, visit the NHS website

Safe travels and stay healthy!

Working as a Ski Instructor in Switzerland

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Powder Dreams : Working as a Ski Instructor in Switzerland

For many, Switzerland conjures images of snow-capped peaks, charming chalets, and world-class skiing. But what if you could turn that dream into your reality? Working as a ski instructor in Switzerland allows you to do just that. Here’s a glimpse into this exciting career path:

The Good Life on the Slopes

Imagine this: crisp mountain air, breathtaking scenery, and the thrill of floating through fresh powder. As a ski instructor, you get to experience this every day. You’ll share your passion for the sport, helping people of all ages and abilities find their confidence and joy on skis.

Skiers getting off a lift

Swiss Efficiency Meets Epic Terrain

Switzerland boasts some of the most extensive and well-maintained ski resorts globally. From challenging descents to gentle slopes, there’s something for everyone. The efficient Swiss public transport system ensures easy access to various resorts, allowing you to explore different areas throughout the season.

Qualifications and Getting Started

To become a ski instructor in Switzerland, you’ll need a recognized qualification, typically Level 2 (or equivalent) from your home country. Many international instructor programs offer courses specifically geared towards working in Switzerland. The Swiss Ski and Snowboard School (SSBS) is the national governing body, and their website provides valuable information on qualifications and the application process https://www.swiss-ski-school.ch/how-to-become-a-snowsports-instructor/.

Work Permits and Visas

Since Switzerland isn’t part of the European Union, securing a work permit is crucial. This process usually involves a job offer from a Swiss ski school followed by the school’s application for your permit. Be sure to factor in visa requirements depending on your nationality.

Beyond the Slopes: The Swiss Experience

Working as a ski instructor opens doors to a unique cultural experience. Immerse yourself in the charming villages, delicious local cuisine, and rich traditions of Switzerland. Living and working alongside people from around the globe fosters a vibrant and international atmosphere.

Is it Right for You?

This career path isn’t all sunshine and powder snow. The ski season is demanding, requiring long hours and physical stamina. However, the rewards are plentiful. If you’re passionate about winter sports, enjoy working with people, and crave a scenic work environment, becoming a ski instructor in Switzerland could be your dream job.

Ready to take the plunge? Research ski instructor programs, explore job opportunities at Swiss resorts, and start planning your snowy adventure!

Your Guide to Getting a Work Visa for a French Ski Resort

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Hey there, snow lover! Dreaming of swapping the drizzle for fresh powder and après-ski parties in the French Alps? We’ve got you covered! Here’s the lowdown on how to get a work visa for a job at a French ski resort. Let’s hit the slopes!

1. Know Your Plan: First things first, what’s your game plan? Are you planning a season-long stay or just a quick gig? Knowing your timeframe and job details will help you choose the right visa.

2. Pick Your Perfect Visa: France has a few visa options, kind of like choosing between skis and a snowboard. For a ski resort job, you’ll likely need the Long-Stay Visa (VLS-T). This bad boy lets you stay in France for more than 90 days and work legally.Work visa for France

3. Gear Up with Your Docs: Time to gather your essential documents! Here’s your checklist:

  • Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
  • Job Offer: A contract or offer letter from the ski resort.
  • Accommodation Proof: Where you’ll be crashing.
  • Financial Proof: Show you’ve got the funds to survive.
  • Health Insurance: Gotta be covered in case you take a tumble.

4. Submit Your Application: Once your paperwork is ready, it’s showtime! Head to the French consulate or embassy in the UK to submit your application. Pro tip: Apply early to avoid last-minute panic.

5. Ace That Interview (if needed): Some folks might get called in for a visa interview. Think of it as your moment to shine, like nailing a black  run. Dress smart, be confident, and show them you’re serious about your alpine adventure.

6. Wait for the Green Light: Now comes the waiting game. Keep your cool and check your email for updates. It’s like waiting for the perfect snowfall – it’ll be worth it!

7. Pack Up and Head Out: Visa approved? Time to pack! Grab your gear, brush up on your French (or at least learn “Où est la bar?”), and get ready to live the ski bum dream.

 

Conclusion: And there you have it! Getting a work visa for a French ski resort isn’t as tricky as navigating a mogul field. With some prep, the right docs, and a sprinkle of that British charm, you’ll be shredding the slopes and enjoying après-ski in no time. Bonne chance et à bientôt sur les pistes!

 

Top Tips for your Assessment Day

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Top Tips for your Assessment Day 

So, you’ve decided you want to embark on a winter season and have been invited to an assessment day. That’s fantastic, assessment days are vital tools for both candidates and employers to get a good feel for each other and the applicants suitability to their chosen role. 

We have put together some top tips for your assessment day to help you shine and showcase yourself in the best possible way. Enjoy and good luck! 

Our top tips for thriving on  your assessment day

  1. Dress to impress – first impressions do count! They are almost instant judgments we make about others when we first meet them and they can’t be undone. Put some effort into maintaining good eye contact, start with a confident introduction and a handshake. Make sure you dress appropriately for the weather, job role and sector you’re applying to work in. It’s easy to do and it makes a big difference. 
  2. Be prepared – before leaving home to attend your assessment day make a list of things you should bring with you. You’ll never look silly for bringing a few extra copies of your CV and application, but arriving without these vital pieces of information could spotlight you negatively to your potential employer. 

Think – are there any role specific activities you need to complete, have you been asked to bring anything with you as part of the assessment day?

  1. Ask questions – asking questions is integral on an assessment day, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if you’re not entirely sure about a task. Your interviewers don’t want to trip you up, and are often trying to get the best from you. Additionally, asking well thought out questions shows a genuine interest in the company and that you’ve done some extra research. 
  2. Speak and listen equally – the goal of an assessment day is to stand out and be noticed, however, they are often used to assess how you interact in a group setting. Communicating your ideas and opinions effectively is an essential skill, alternatively talking over other candidates and not listening will not reflect well. When you’re part of a team, negotiating and supporting your teammates is integral to a happy working environment, therefore everyone in the team must have an opportunity to speak. Remember – being louder doesn’t always equal being better and your interviewers know this. 
  3. Prepare well for your individual interview – try to plan for questions you think may arise in an interview. How is your experience of work relevant to the role you are applying for? Do you have gaps in your CV that could be explained? What do you want to get out of a ski season? By planning framework answers to a few basic questions you can communicate yourself effectively. 

Generic answers like ‘I need the money’ or ‘I just love to ski’ will not inspire a positive image to your interviewer. They know that you love the mountains but do you have a goal that the season could help you achieve? Are you looking to push yourself? Have you dreamt of doing a season ever since you watched Chalet Girl? All of these examples provide genuine positive outcomes from your season and highlight that it is something you’re committed to seeing through for the whole duration of the season.  

  1. Market and company research – why have you chosen to apply for this specific company, what is their unique selling point? Good knowledge about the company, the clientele and how the company positions itself in the market can help you think about how your experience makes you an ideal candidate for the company. When you have good knowledge about the company, you can tailor your experience and service expectations to perfectly fit them and their target market.

How did you hear about the company? What has piqued your interest, has there been new development and growth within the company or are they a stable and reliable company that you’d like to personally grow and develop in?

  1. How to stand out in a group – be assertive, not dominant – in most jobs in ski resorts you will be a part of a team therefore illustrating your ability to work well in a group on your assessment day is key.  A simple ‘I see where you’re coming from’ or ‘that’s a really good point’ can go a long way in a group discussion. Highlighting yourself as a good team leader and delegator by asking other, quieter applicants to provide their opinions will make you stand out. Assessment days are your opportunity to illustrate and evidence what you have said about yourself on your CV. 

Now you know our tips and tricks to acing an assessment day, why not apply to Ski Famille and take your new skills for a test drive?

Ski Famille and Ski Vertigo have chalets and hotels spanning the French Alps. If you fancy a winter in The 3 Valleys, Tignes, Val-d’Isère, La Plagne or Les Gets then we are the company for you. What makes us different? Well, since Brexit many seasonal employers will only accept EU passport holders but we review all applications regardless of your passport. We have an experienced office team here who will do all of the hard work and support you through obtaining your VISA!

We have been operating since 1990 and have valuable experience in recruiting fantastic teams and wonderful applicants who continue to surprise us with their skills year on year. 

Here is a link to our jobs page with all of our available roles – www.skifamille.co.uk/ski-jobs/

Apply now to [email protected] to get your application started today!

Chalet hosts are required to submit a 2 minute video answering some questions (which can be found at www.skifamille.co.uk/ski-jobs/) along with their CV.

Come and join us for the best winter of your life! 

 

How to get a ski job in the EU after Brexit (updated July 2022)

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Want to do a ski season and have a British passport? Or perhaps you don’t know if it’s still possible? Yes, it is!

Not much has changed from the update below that we posted (with thanks to Dan Fox) , however the system last year was very slow and there are hopes that this will be speeded up this ski season, however the process of applying for work visas cannot be started unti until 3 months before the contract starts. This means that from September onwards the ski companies HR/Legal departments are going to be very busy (!), many companies have started their job adverts already and they can be found HERE.

Below we have the current situation from Dan Fox at Ski Weekends

A part of my role in S.B.I.T (Seasonal Businesses in Travel) we have released this summary of what has changed to make this possible.

We are an organisation called S.B.I.T and for the past 4 years we have been raising awareness of the impacts of Brexit on UK staff “working a ski season”. We have also been working closely with the French and UK authorities to enable UK staff to continue to work a ski season in the Alps.

Up until recently, the prospects were not looking good and many ski companies were not even looking at job applications from UK staff, however, a few things have changed in the last few months which have improved the situation considerably.

First the basics

Now that the UK has left the EU, to work in France you will need a work permit and a work visa before you can enter France to work. Last year this was a very difficult, paper-based and long process The work permit had to be applied for by the UK companies that employed you, with no guarantee of success and then you needed to apply for the work visa. This was causing many UK firms to only consider staff with EU passports for ski season jobs.

Earlier this year, however, and after many meetings between SBiT and the French authorities, the application processes have been put online and in the last few weeks, several UK travel companies have already started to receive work permits for their UK winter staff.
In other words, if you are thinking about working in a French Alpine Ski resort this winter (for example as a chef, chalet host, bar staff, hotel assistant, or in a childcare role) then get applying as there are many UK companies that want to employ you.

Here is the process

  1. Apply for and secure a job with a UK Ski company
  2. Your employer will apply for a Work Permit for you, you cannot do this yourself
  3. Your employer will help you apply for your Work Visa.
  4. Start watching the snow forecasts and get excited about your season!

The process can take some time, so don’t delay applying if you want to work a ski season, there are only 3 months until the season starts.

Many of us in S.B.I.T have worked multiple winter seasons and the amazing experience of working a ski season is one we will never forget and has led to wonderful careers in the travel industry.

Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity while you still can.

 

Dan Fox is the MD/Owner of Ski Weekends

What recruiters want

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Mt Hotham skierWhat recruiters want

By Liam Campbell
As someone who manages recruitment for a ski holiday company finding seasonal workers each year fills me with both joy and dread.
I recruit around 30 members of seasonal staff each year and for those positions I receive over 1,500 applications!
Whilst I love nothing more than speaking with people who share my passion snow sports and the mountains; it still proves to be a slog to get through the applications and complete the recruitment process.
Most of those applications don’t make it through the sifting process. Those who proceed to an interview get the opportunity to really show what they have to offer are and live the dream out in the mountains!
So how can you boost your chances of being able to work a season and your chances of getting an interview?
Here are my 5 tips for your application to work a season:

1. Work experience

It all starts before you send the application in. Recruiters are looking for people with a good set of skills in the area they are recruiting for. If it’s a customer facing role, they will look for a history customer service and hospitality experience. If you haven’t already get a job in a similar style venue or job before you send in your application. Seek that experience and it will help open the door to you being able to work a season. It also means you will have a few quid more in your pocket when you get out there!

2. Research

Found your dream job position? That is great, now how are you going to make sure you get it? Do your homework. Read the job description, fully understand the role and all its requirements. Do you have the right experience? Is this what I want to do? Why do I want to do it? Learn about the company you will be working for?
Recruiter’s love hearing about themselves. That doesn’t mean they are vain, but it shows you’ve done your research. So, make sure you know about the company, what resorts do they operate in, when were they founded, how did they grow, what makes them different to the rest of the industry and most importantly of all, why do you want to work for them rather than anyone else.

3. Well written CV

If someone sends a one page CV with little to no explanation of what they have done, the recruiter probably won’t even bother reading it. If an applicant can’t be bothered to put the effort and attention to detail into writing a proper CV; why should they put themselves out to read it? You only get one chance to make a first impression; if your CV suggests little time and effort has been put into its creation, it’s natural to assume you lack energy and enthusiasm and what does that say about the effort they would likely put into their job.
Recruiters are not looking for your autobiography and what you have for lunch on a Tuesday in February, but you need to paint a picture of what makes you tick. Two pages tends to be more than enough. Explain your previous roles and responsibilities but keep it succinct, keep it focused, keep it punchy, and keep it you.

4. Covering letters

Don’t just send a CV and hope for the best, you will just be a name on top of a piece of paper with some jobs written below it. It isn’t very interesting and unlikely to grab the attention of the recruiter.
They want to know who is applying! Introduce yourself, why you want to work for the company, show them your relevant work experience, what your passions are and why should they pick you.

5. Be personal

There is nothing worse than having a bland and generic application sent to you. It is so obvious when you copy and paste an application and send it to 50 different companies. You don’t have to rewrite your whole CV and covering letter but tweak it to keep it relevant to the role and company ethos to every position you apply to. Make sure to read the job description and understand what the key skills are the company want you to show and demonstrate them in your work experience.
It takes a little more work, but I guarantee it will help you stand out from the crowd.

So that is 5 things you can do to increase your chances of working a season.
Anyone can do it but few actually do.

If you put a little bit of time into and focus on these points then suddenly you stand out head and shoulders above the rest and that gives you a better chance than others who haven’t made the effort.

Will Brexit stop less affluent workers getting a ski job?

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Why the end of free movement will be harder on less affluent seasonal workers

Blog written by Liam Cambell

Working ski seasons were some of the best years of my life. The chance to live and work in a foreign country, ski almost every day and earn money whilst doing it was the best experience any young person can have. However, the prospect of shrinking job opportunities with complicated and potentially expensive visa’s this could be devastating to the community of seasonal workers who travel to Europe every year.

 

I am from the North East of England and at the age of 10 my parents took me for my first ski holiday to the far-off resort of Glenshee in Scotland. I was a minor celebrity when I got back in my class, I was one of the few kids who had ever been skiing before, I felt as cool as any 10-year-old could when describing wearing ski goggles and going incredibly fast down a ski slope. Tall tales aside I realise now how lucky I was, a few years later we got out first trip abroad to the alps going to Italy and from then on, I realised a bit of my heart belonged to the mountains.

Photo by Liam Campbell
 

The opportunity to ski from a young age is something I took for granted for many years. Especially so in my first season. As the years went by and the more seasons I worked, the more I realised that, for many of my co-workers this was their first ever experience of the mountains never mind snow sports. They never went on family ski holidays and never joined the school ski trip for the simple reason their parents couldn’t afford it.

 

Working a season in the ski resorts of Europe gave them their first experience of the mountains and they got to share in the sport and cultures I love. As seasonairres we pride ourselves on the fact it doesn’t matter your age, background or race we are all united by our love of travel and adventure as well as a willingness to work hard.

 

With the end of free movement that puts this inclusive atmosphere in jeopardy. Whilst our attitudes will hopefully not change, the putting up of barriers of visa’s and permits creates significant issues for seasonal workers from less affluent backgrounds.

 
A visa to work in some European countries is around £50 just for submitting the applications and most importantly after applying receiving a visa is not guaranteed. For a number of countries like France their application process requires the submission of the applications in person at their embassy.

So for someone like myself in the North East of England my visa application will cost me the cost of a visa and a train ticket meaning I could be paying £150 for a visa which is not guaranteed after completing my application. Many cannot risk throwing away £150 on a dream of working a ski season and as a result many seasonaires from less affluent backgrounds may choose not to apply.

Pricing out seasonairres from less affluent background will be a devastating loss to the whole ski industry on a cultural level. We run the risk of skiing regressing back to the years of the 70’s and 80’s of it being a pursuit solely reserved for those from money and making it off limits to those without.

 

There needs to be an alternative from the current procedure of visa application for seasonal workers but that can only be done by both the UK and EU governments making changes to the current trade deal. Write to your MP and tell them of the risk to the 25,000 British seasonal workers and the increased impact to young people from less affluent backgrounds.