1. Apply ASAP – Summer job applications get competitive. A good way to stay ahead of your competition is to not just apply early, but to apply to as many jobs as you can.
2. Go to Your Favorite Store and Ask – Sometimes, you can’t find job listings online. Try walking into a store or business and ask if they’re hiring. Even if they’re not, some places may still give you an application form to fill out!
3. Have an Open Schedule – I knew several people who struggled to find jobs because they didn’t have flexible schedules. With that said, try to be as open as possible when proposing a work schedule. If you can, offer to work weekends, holidays, or busy hours. The more flexible you are, the easier it will be for you to find a job.
4. Neighborhood Connections – If you have a local neighborhood application or even a town/city Facebook page, check for job postings made by your neighbors. Who knows, maybe the sweet lady across the street is looking for some help around the house this summer and is willing to compensate you for it!
5. Follow-up – Even if you don’t get the job, don’t forget to follow-up and thank the interviewer for their time. Remember, this is a thank you so don’t take it as one last opportunity to beg for the job. However, by taking this step, hopefully the interviewer remembers and appreciates you following up and this could benefit you if you ever decide to reapply to the job. Additionally, sometimes an interviewer can refer you to another employer which could help you in your job hunt.
6. Ask family friends/trusted adults – Similarly to neighbors, don’t be afraid to ask family or family friends about potential job openings, especially if they are working in a field you are interested in. Or, these connections may refer you to someone they know if looking to hire someone for the summer. Regardless, take advantage of your connections because you never know who they know.
While it may be hard to find a job, there are so many resources you can take advantage of so use them. Even if a job isn’t posted online, you can find jobs through just knowing people. Physically go to your favorite store and ask if they are hiring or ask your neighbors, friends, and family. Good luck with the job hunt but also, remember to take some time and enjoy the summer!
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