The Online Application!
It really is an exciting time when Yummy Jobs open the applications for the program, and it’s time to get cracking! After the initial excitement, it can be very daunting so here’s a few tips from my experience on how I prepared myself to write the perfect application!
Don’t panic if you don’t have time to do your application right as the Disney doors open. I was busy working a summer job with 13 hour days, 6 days a week, so I decided to wait until the end of August to crack on with the bulk of my application- many others may also be in a similar situation!
The application itself is pretty simple, but you’ll want to leave yourself plenty of time to complete it as it is likely to take longer than your average job application as it is Disney after all!
To begin with, the application asks for some personal information such as your full name, your gender, your date of birth, as well as your place of residency and citizenship!
Next, you will be required to provide a photograph of yourself against a plain background so Disney can see your wonderful smiley face! It’s not a passport photo so don’t be afraid to smile and show your Disney spirit!
Then after filling in some contact information and emergency contact information, should you need it, it is time to list your Education and Work Experience. Of course there is chance to include this in your CV, so include the most relevant or recent jobs here, which you really want to bring forward to Yummy Jobs! Anything which shows you are capable of working within the Disney Parks would be a plus, especially if they tie in with your top role!
After completely the usual information, it is time to tell Disney why the program, specifically, is fit for you and how you would be a perfect fit for Disney! After specifying your availability for the program, it is time to answer the first of many questions the program will throw at you: Why do you value cultural exchange and interaction? After all, the program is first and foremost an exchange to the USA, so Disney want to know how you will gain valuable cultural experience from working abroad, as well as confirming you will be able to talk to guests about your experience living in the UK (or Europe).
Following this, you will be required to provide a CV (which I would recommend tailoring to the Disney Company) and a cover letter (which should be roughly one side of A4 and set out like a formal letter). These elements took up a fair bit of time for me as I wanted to express my enthusiasm for the program and the company! Don’t be afraid to really show your love for the company, whilst remaining professional and showing Disney you have skills to offer! Another thing I did to emphasize I had researched the program, was use Disney words to describe my previous work experience, in Operations, Recreation and Quick Service Food and Beverage.
Finally, it’s time to fill out some additional information. Don’t be fooled, this section is very important and will allow you to talk about your motivations for the program!
For me, it took many days of sitting and writing the application to make it just right! But, if your really committed, you might receive a little email inviting you to the next stage!