Tips for finding a job this summer

By Kandice Crompton

April 15, 2009 - Logan | I have held many different jobs in the six years since I turned 16. In the time I have looked for jobs in a good economy and in a bad economy, in the summer and the winter, while I've been a student and while I've taken time off. While I wouldn't consider myself an employment expert, I would like to share my experiences with other students, and hopefully help them in their job searches.

Tip 1: Don't feel like you can't ask for help. This is an important tip for everyone looking for a job right now. I struggled through January looking for a job. I'm a good worker and have a good resume, but with the state of the economy you can no longer just look in the classifieds and have a job a weeks later. I finally got a job when I buckled down and asked for help. I started asking friends if they knew of openings, and a week later one of my best friends from high school got me the highest paying job I have ever had with an employer that doesn't advertise, and hires only off of other employee recommendations. I am sure that had I not asked for help I would still be unemployed.

Tip 2: Put yourself out there. A lot of employers now have online applications, and you don't get to meet the employer unless you're one of the lucky few that gets an interview. So, my second tip is to get out and meet the employers. After you fill out an application online go into the office and leave a business card or resume. This will give you a feel for the office. One major benefit of this drop-in is that you can get a feel for the office. If you're lucky enough to get an interview you'll know the leg up of knowing the clothing standards of the company and you'll already have a feel for the office. One thing to keep in mind however. I went into an office after submitted an application once and everyone was in t-shirts and jeans. When I got the call for my interview I didn't dare dress that casually, and wore nice clothes. Again everyone was wearing t-shirts and jeans when I went in for my second interview, including everyone else that came for interviews. I was the only one dressed up. When I got the job I was told that I had just happened to be there on casual Fridays, and a lot of the reason I got the job was because of the way that I had dressed and the professionalism I showed through my dress at the interviews.

Tip 3: Think ahead. Yes, you need a summer job, but what about the fall? If you're going to need a job in the fall as well, it's probably not the best idea to get a full-time job that doesn't have the option to go part-time later. Try looking for a job that you can keep during school. It may have to be a part-time summer job, but over time it can pay off. It may require you to get two part time jobs for the summer, or a part-time job and a temporary job, but if you just have to look for a brand new job in 4 months, it may not be worth the stress in a couple months.

Tip 4: Finally, don't give up! Filling out job applications can feel monotonous. Going to interviews can get tedious. Don't just give up. There are jobs out there. You may not get your dream job right away, but you can work towards it. Your searching will pay off eventually!

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