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Tips for job-seekers

Following these steps will help you gain an edge over  the competition.

Trenton Williams, 18; Kamarquist Lang, 17; and Sharrod Jones, 19; wait patiently to meet with a case manager to start the process of getting a part-time summer job through Summer YouthWorks program at the Job Center on May 13.

Staff photo by Teesha McClam/Dayton Daily News Trenton Williams, 18; Kamarquist Lang, 17; and Sharrod Jones, 19; wait patiently to meet with a case manager to start the process of getting a part-time summer job through Summer YouthWorks program at the Job Center on May 13.

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By Laura Houser, Staff Writer Updated 4:54 PM Friday, May 13, 2011

Finding a summer job can be hard, especially in this job market. However, the following tips may give you an edge over the competition:

Know what you want

There are plenty of employers out there for teenagers, many with job openings. However, if you’re looking for something different or a job that pays more than minimum wage, it’s important to know what you want before starting your search.

Follow your interests and don’t be shy: Contact people or businesses in your area that interest you, and see if they have openings. Making the first move is a sign of initiative. Also, find out what the job will entail before accepting an offer — if it’s something you hate, you won’t have a good summer. Don’t be too picky, though, especially if it’s your first job.

Start the search

Now that you have an idea of what you’re looking for, involve as many people as possible in your job search. That includes family and friends — anyone who can tip you off to openings. Check job listings in the classifieds section of the paper or search for jobs and post resumes online here.

It’s important to devote time to your job search, though, since you may not find one immediately. Give yourself a couple hours a day to look, keep track of where you’ve been and always have a back-up plan.

Market yourself

Even if this is your first job, there are many ways to sell yourself to potential employers using experience from high school. This can include being part of a team and any leadership positions you’ve held (captain of the volleyball team? president of the theater club?). Volunteer work looks good on a resume, as well as any extracurricular activities.

Whatever they are, identify your skills and learn how they might be used to your advantage. Every job is beneficial. If you were a server at a restaurant, consider the experience an opportunity to learn about a business from the inside out.

Create buzz

Many job applications will require at least two references, and so it’s time to learn who can comment on your work ethic. References should not be family members or friends, so choose two adults who know you well — past employers, friends of the family, teachers or guidance counselors. You will need addresses and phone numbers, but make sure you ask permission first.

If this is one of your first jobs, letters of recommendation can be a big help. Ask someone who knows you well, and have the letters geared toward a specific job.

Nail the interview

Once you land an interview, make sure you go prepared. This is where it’s important to know what will be expected of you, since you will be able to tailor your questions and answers appropriately.

Know something about the company ahead of time and be honest in your responses — if you bend the truth and get hired, your employer might find out. At the end, make sure to ask questions — it shows you’re interested.

Other opportunities

Jobs are nice, but you may want to consider other opportunities for the summer, particularly if you’re starting college in the fall. Internships in areas of interest may help you decide on a major or possible career path. Landing an internship now also gives you a leg up when applying for internships in college.

Volunteering also provides invaluable experience and looks great on a resume. Hospitals, animal shelters, clinics and youth programs are always looking for volunteers, and while you may not be paid, the experience is worth it.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-0633 or lhouser@Dayton DailyNews.com.

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