A summer job may be a
necessity to help finance your college education. But with a
competitive job market, even for entry-level positions, finding
summer work can be a major challenge.
Here are a few ways you
can find a job in the summer months:
Start Early
The time to start applying
for summer jobs and internships is months before you actually need
them. Plan to start looking for your summer position by February at
the latest, so you have plenty of time for your search.
Starting your search early
also allows you to tap your network for possible summer openings.
Make sure your friends and relatives know you're looking for summer
work, so they'll be on the lookout for you (or may even have a
position for you).
Stand Out by Walking In
Most job hunters perform
their searches online these days. You can help stand out from the
crowd by putting on your best walking shoes and look for "Help
Wanted" signs around town. Many smaller businesses don't
advertise for help online, so actually getting out in the
neighborhood may help you find a job you wouldn't have known about
otherwise.
Be prepared to give
potential employers a quick "elevator speech" listing your
skills and motivation for working with them. And don't forget to
follow up with prospects who seemed interested.
Ask for Help
Find out if your school's
career services office (or similar department) can help you with your
job search. These departments may also help you with interviewing
techniques and other tips to help you land a job.
Don't forget to contact
previous employers to see if they have room for you through the
summer. If you had a great work history with them, they may be able
to help you out.
Look in Other Fields
If you've been set on
finding a job in your chosen career path, but are still unsuccessful
with summer looming, it may be time to broaden your search. While you
might not gain experience that's specific to the career you want to
have, any work experience will look better than none to future
employers.
Become an Entrepreneur
Finally, use your
creativity to make your own summer job. Many college students make
their summer money doing landscaping or mowing lawns. Look at your
skills and experience for ways to make money.
From handyman work like
painting and minor home repairs to vacation pet care and babysitting,
there are many ways to create your own job.
Don't forget to check into
unpaid internships, either. While you won't make any money from these
positions, they can give you valuable experience in your field or a
related one, and will give your resume a boost.
Finding a summer job takes
planning and legwork, especially as the job market for all career
levels becomes more competitive.
By starting early and
staying motivated, you stand a better chance of finding a position to
help you finance or advance your career.
About the Author: Angie
Mansfield is a freelance writer whose work covers a range of consumer
and business topics for a variety of websites, includingReputation.com.