Teenagers searching for summer jobs need to start early. It is a good idea to start filling out applications as early as April because if you wait too long, the jobs could all be taken.
There are a variety of job choices teeanagers can explore. Ask yourself, what am I good at? What kind of work would I like to do? Do I want to work for an employer or work for myself. If you answer these truthfully, you will have a better chance at getting that summer job.
When you go for interviews, dress neatly and make good eye contact with the future employer. You will be one step ahead of the next one, if you listen and answer all questions honestly. Do a little homework on the place of employment you are applying to. At the end of most interviews, you will be asked "Do you have any questions?" If you have researched a little ahead of time, you can come up with a question or two about the business or you can say, "No thank you on the question, however I did learn that your company (insert a nice comment) and I know I will like working here!"
This tells the employer you have a real interest in working for their business. It shows motivation and all employers want to hire motivated people.
Places to search
1. Being a camp counselor can be very rewarding work. Helping to mentor younger children will give you a jump-start on learning leadership skills, social skills and conflict resolutions (which can happen between children sometimes) and you will experience a full and happy summer. Go online and search for organizations that provide summer camping activities. This can be a "day camp" or camping full scale.
2. Landscaping and Lawn care: There is always a need for good workers in this field. You can start your own business by making your own business cards on the computer advertising what services you offer. Even if you decide just to mow lawns you can build up a reputation for being responsible and a hard worker. Go to your neighbors with your offer. Most folks hate mowing their own lawns and don't want to pay high-priced landscapers. Place ads on all bulletin boards around your town.
3. Do you get good grades? Why not build your own business offering tutoring services to children in lower grades who are struggling with math or reading. You can offer to work with the younger kids for so much per hour. Ask your school guidance counselor for referrals and then make an appointment with the parents and offer your services.
4. Restaurant work: The jobs offered here are usually dishwasher, hostess, cleaner, server or busing tables. Here you will learn people skills which will help you in all areas of life, plus earn some money. People usually tip good for good services.
5. Neighborhood car wash and detailing: Here is another service where most people do not have the time to take care of this on their "to do list". Find out what price your local car wash places charge and offer to do it for a little less. Your initial start up costs will not cost much. Price out what you need at a few different stores.
6. Lifeguard: You must get certified and pass a written and swimming test. Most places require you be in excellent physical health and at least 16 years old. To earn your certificate you must take the lifeguard course which is approximately 30 hours.
7. Internship: While you will not earn money working as an intern, you will gain professional knowledge and real-world experience will be a huge asset for you when you seek full-time employment. Another benefit is if you prove yourself a good worker you may be hired by the business. (this employment will work well for teens who have a good idea of what field they want to work in as an adult)
8. Summer babysitting is always in high demand. The "tweens" too old for daycare and too young to stay home on summer vacations need supervision. This can be a great job and acting like a big brother or sister can be a fun-time for both you and the one you are sitting for.
9. Dog care: Start by spreading the word through your neighborhood, bulletin boards and networking with friends and family to help build up a business. A lot of people do not have much time to bathe and walk or throw a ball to their dogs. This is a business venture that could provide work all year long.
10. Do not overlook your local grocery supermarket. Everything from bag-boy or girl to stocking shelves, and everything in between. If you prove yourself responsible and have a good attitude, the store may keep you on for after-school and weekends.
Above all, always fill out applications neatly and fully, be honest and use good manners, (all employers love that). Never hand in an application full of mistakes or erasure marks. The application is your first chance to make a good impression. Always arrive on time for interviews. This shows you respect the employer. Be patient and persistent while searching and you will find a great summer job!