Who Else Wants a Summer Job?!?

Summer is one of the most exciting times for students everywhere.  Who wouldn’t want a break from teachers, pop quizzes, and early morning classes?  But summer can also mean less money in your pocket for going out with your friends.  If you want to earn some extra cash over the summer, maybe you should consider getting a summer job!  Aside from earning cash, getting a summer job can definitely help you save for school this coming fall. 

But applying for a summer job isn't always easy, as a lot of teenagers eventually find out.  This is because businesses are hiring fewer employees in light of the poorly-performing economy and weaker consumer spending. 

The Center for Labor Market Studies at Northeastern University in Boston observed that this summer is the worst summer job market for teens since 1948, based on the high employment rate across the country.  The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics reported 18.7% unemployment rate in seasonal workforce. Teens therefore might face a chilly job market this year.

But don’t let these figures let you down.  FCS is here to give tips to help you secure summer employment:

·         1. Self- Assessment

Take time to get to know your skills, interests, and personal mission especially when it comes to work.  This is extremely important since you will “sell” yourself to a company.  As competition for jobs is fierce at this time, you need to show you’re an efficient employee even if you’re just looking for a summer job. 

Summer job tests are also available online to help you evaluate yourself better, finding the right work for you.  These tests help you match your background with available summer jobs!

·         2. Resume and Interview

Make a short yet concise resume highlighting your skills and academic background.  A well-tailored resume can easily set you apart from other candidates.  You also need to practice mockup job interviews to prep you up when you get a call back.  This is an important screening process of companies to get the suitable employee among the bunch.  You need to exude confidence and professionalism in interviews.  Your employer will surely be impressed with your determination and mature outlook at a young age.

·         3. Scout Possible Workplace

Be proactive and creative in looking for summer employment opportunities.  You can check local newspapers, the Internet, and even your school for a possible summer job.  Another approach is to visit companies, malls, restaurants, and other agencies in your area to find out if their looking for additional employee in their company.  Not all vacancies are advertised by companies since it can be expensive for the companies. 

Talk to family and friends.  Networking is a good way to know possible summer jobs available.  Referrals from your contacts are also powerful in hooking you up with a job this summer.

Just remember to be patient and optimistic while following these steps.  Despite the dawdling job market, you still have a shot of getting a summer job!  You’ll learn professional skills needed in your career and more importantly, summer jobs can help beef up your piggy bank!