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to serve as professional or personal references. Virtually all potential employers will ask you to name these on written applications. Ideally, you will list respectable people who hold responsible positions in the community. Teachers, pastors, past employers and other leaders tend to make excellent references.

Most employers will follow through and contact the folks you list, so you absolutely must ask for permission ahead of time.

DRESS FOR THE PART.

The most successful job applicants understand the importance of making an excellent first impression. Even if you are applying at a tiny hot dog stand, you will want to shed the fringed shorts and flip-flops for an upgraded outfit. If you want the job, you should dress at least as nice as you think your boss will dress.

Certainly, you won't need a pinstriped suit to apply for a shampoo-girl position in a local beauty salon. But you shouldn't wear gym shorts and a halter top either. If you upgrade your appearance, you will raise your odds of landing a job.

ACE THE INTERVIEW.

Most employers will ask for a personal interview. Whether this is a 15-minute, informal get-acquainted meeting or a full-scale grilling session, you will want to present your self as professionally as you can.

Try to anticipate questions your prospective employer may ask you. What related experience have you had? If you are applying for a job as a day-camp counselor, you might mention your many years of babysitting. If you want to work in an office, you should speak up about your two semesters as a teacher's assistant in the math department.

BE ON TIME, EVERY TIME.

Too many young people assume they are home free, once they are hired. Not so! From the first time-card punch, employees are constantly being evaluated. If you want to keep your job, you will arrive on time each day. If you want your boss to give you plenty of hours and optimum scheduling, then you will not stretch your breaks or linger longer at lunch.

EXCEL AT YOUR JOB.

A valued employee is an important asset to any employer, and that's exactly what you want to be. Whether you are flipping fries, teaching kids to swim, or filing medical reports, it counts.

Being consistent, flexible, and available are all important. If your employer calls you to fill in for an extra work shift, you should jump at the chance! Be the helpful and willing staffer, and your boss will appreciate you!

Your first summer job is an important stepping stone to the rest of your professional career. And your first boss is a key reference for your next position.

If you do the very best work you can, your employer will surely notice. He will likely encourage your growth, which may include a pay raise and other benefits!

Learn more about this author, Linda Ann Nickerson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

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