How to Find a Nine-to-Five Summer Job for Teens

The phrase "nine-to-five" job might evoke an image of an office, but a nine-to-five job does not necessarily have to follow that stereotype. If you broaden your job search horizons, you increase your chances of finding a summer job. Also, include internships and volunteer jobs in your search. These can pay off nicely in the long term. Start as early as possible to look for your summer job.

Instructions

1. Figure out your transportation situation and your options for getting to and from work. Do not apply for jobs where transportation is a problem.

2. Write a list of what types of jobs you would like to do. Also write what you would be willing to do. Sometimes you have to make allowances and work a job you ideally would not.

3. Network. Let your family, teachers, friends and others know you want a summer job. Share with them the types of jobs you are looking for, and inform them that you want a nine-to-five job.

4. Develop a resume, especially if you have job experience. Think outside the box as to what job experience means, too. If you were the top cookie seller for a school fundraiser, you have proven sales and business experience. Most likely, your resume will focus on your skills and abilities.

5. Go old-fashioned. Walk around your locality and look for "help wanted" signs. Search for these signs wherever you go. Also search newspaper job listings, whether in the print or online version. Apply at places that seem promising.

6. Dress professionally and walk right in if you already have a place in mind and really want to work there. Make an appointment if possible, but do not worry if you do not have one. Introduce yourself to the receptionist. Establish your credentials and explain your interest in working at that company. If no jobs are available, ask whether you can volunteer or do an unpaid internship.

7. Sign up with a temp agency. Temp agencies will look for nine-to-five jobs that fit your qualifications, and you might get varied experience. You could work at one place for two days, then another place for two weeks, and so on. In some cases, you might work at the same place for the entire summer.

8. Visit your state employment agency's website to search for jobs. You can also go to the agency's closest location and talk with an official there.

9. Begin a solo business or buddy up; get a friend or several and establish a nine-to-five service business such as dog walking or mowing lawns. Make sure to follow business licensing regulations and other rules.

Tips & Warnings

• Safety comes first. If a job asks you to run heavy machinery or work in extreme situations such as at the top of a skyscraper, do not do it.

References

• United States Department of Labor: Youth 2 Work
• United States Department of Labor: Federal Agencies Launch Effort to Help Teen Workers Stay Safe and Healthy on the Job This Summer
• "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Cool Jobs for Teens"; Susan Ireland; 2001
• Economic Insight; Summering for a Summer Job?; Lecia Parks Langston; May/June 2011