How to Get a Job in New York City - Bartending, Modeling, PR, and Media Job Tips

With the economy as it is, job hunting in New York City is more of a challenge, but it is still entirely possible to track down your city "dream job" -- or at least a solid "for right now" job. If you're looking for a job in PR or media, or even just a part-time gig as a bartender or waiter/waitress, read on.

Bartending & Waitressing/Waiter Positions
Bartending in NYC is highly competitive. Most bar owners will require a resume -- a professional one -- and several solid job references. In general, they may want to see at least a couple years of experience. You can get around this by having a friend who already works at the bar recommend you, or by choosing a smaller bar -- possibly one on the Upper West Side or in the East Village, where it may be up to the discretion of the manager. (A large, chain-owned or hotel-owned bar in Midtown is less likely to be flexible.)

Modeling Positions
Promotional modeling, runway, and print/commercial modeling work is highly competitive in the city, and yet paradoxically Manhattan is one of the best places to build a modeling career. Start by building up your portfolio; enlist the help of friends who are photographers to create a solid number of headshots, and then submit these to agencies who are actively soliciting new models -- also attend "open calls" at various agencies and casting sessions.

Modeling is definitely, in part, about networking and patience so it helps to have a part-time job (such as bartending or an office job at a PR firm) until your career gets to the point where modeling contracts alone can pay your rent and expenses!

PR and Media Jobs
Again, these are fields that require a lot of networking -- be prepared to be social and get good at selling yourself and your abilities to potential employers. Check the job listing board at Mediabistro.com/jobs regularly, and the Craigslist television/film/radio job listing page at newyork.craigslist.org/tfr.

Regardless of what field you choose, Manhattan is certainly an oasis of job opportunities -- but patience and diligence are required. Be on the look out always for positions that seem too good to be true. A legitimate modeling or acting agency should never charge you for their services; real agencies make their money on a commission basis off the work you get through them. So if any agency or employer asks you for money upfront, be wary as this is likely a "fishy" or outright malevolent organization.

Similarly, you should not need to pay an application fee or pay for "bartending classes" if you already have bartending experience. Never pay a fee to apply to a job, and don't sign any contractual agreements without first consulting a lawyer.

New York is full of part-time and full-time opportunities, but remain cautious regardless. Good luck!