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Every teen dreams of the day they can get their first job. Images of cars, dating and unlimited funds to buy whatever they want are moving through your mind faster then the cars on the track at Sunday's race. It tends to be a cruel wake up call when you suddenly realize that the job you thought would be a dream come true turns into the nightmare you cannot wake up from.

Follow these easy tips to make sure that you find the right job to keep your summer happy and fun.

Choose wisely! Look for a job that will allow you to do something you will enjoy. If you love to chat with new people, then a clerk in a store would be a good fit. If you would rather spend your summer outdoors, then it will be best for you to look for a job that allows you to do that. Contact local contractors to find out if they need a helper, check with your neighbors to see if they would like to have their lawn mowed.

Create a resume. Even if this is your first job, you will be able to present your prospective employer with a cover letter, goal statement, and information about you and the activities you are involved in on a regular basis.

Dress appropriately. Most, if not all, of the jobs you apply for will require you to have an interview of some type. Arrive a few minutes early, dressed for success.

Consider the time constraints. Remember that when you agree to take a job, you will be agreeing to give your free time to someone and it will no longer be free. If you can't commit to working a certain number of hours per week or commit to working the days you are scheduled, then you shouldn't take the job. Talk to your prospective employer and make sure that they can and will work around your extracurricular activities such as football, band or cheer leading camps.

Remember, you are taking the next step to becoming an adult. Your summer jobs will reflect on you, your performance, and your abilities as you move closer to graduation, college and adulthood for years to come. If you do a great job, you will be one step closer to getting the perfect job after you graduate from high school or college. If you do poorly, it will hurt your chances of getting the dream job. This is your first chance to prove to your parents and yourself that you are a maturing young adult who will succeed today, tomorrow and in the future.

Learn more about this author, Melanie Winters.
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