If you’ve just launched a start-up, chances are you’re watching every single penny, and wondering how on earth you’re going to get everything done, on your meagre budget. Entrepreneurs Joanna Ward and Sue Harrison have been there…and have come up with a business idea which enables you to get projects on your to-do list completed, quickly and cheaply.
What is Student Gems?
When Ward and Harrison needed some photography done for their business, but couldn’t afford the rates of a professional commercial photographer, they stumbled across a photography student who was able to do the job. Knowing there must be loads of small business owners in a similar predicament, they decided to compile a database of students across different disciplines – graphic design, web development, marketing etc. Today, Student Gems boasts 1600 services on their site, from admin and business assistance to gift wrapping and product design.
How Does Student Gems Work?
Business owners register on the Student Gems website for free, then pay a small fee to advertise the part-time position or job they have available. All students with matching skills are informed of the new post, and those who are interested contact the advertiser through Student Gem’s internal messaging system. From there, advertiser’s can take a look at candidates’ portfolios, interview them and hire the best person for the job.
To get on to the database, students register for free, complete their online profile and post an online portfolio. Both students and employers can leave feedback on each others’ profiles, important for building and safeguarding reputations.
For more inspiration…
Check out these student placement agencies:
- Students Unlimited – Johannesburg employment agency specialising in the placements of university, technikon and other students
- Kunjani Student Placement – facilitates internships for international students in South Africa
- Young and Broke – Part-time jobs for students and teens in New Zealand.
- Image courtesy of Student Gems
