How to Find A Summer Job For Teens

Today's economy makes finding a summer job for teens tougher than ever. But, for those who really want to work, there are summer jobs to be had.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Newspaper
• Access to the School Counselor
• Access to your Church Officials
• Character

1. Scan your local newspaper.
   
   Thanks to the popularity of online job search forums, the newspaper has gotten short shrift. But, the help wanted ads for low paying jobs are still found in the paper. Look for good seasonal employment by targeting restaurants, fast food places, grocery stores, and the local mall.
   
   This doesn't mean that you cannot go online. It only means not to overlook the local connection. I've included a few "Teen Specific" links in the resource boxes below to help with your search.

2. Talk to your school counselor.
   
   Most school counselors can help you with applications if your idea of a "summer job" is working with other kids at summer camps for teens. If you are a college student your counselors will be able to assist you in searching out local summer internships in your field of study. And, your counselor likely has contacts "downtown" that can possibly point you towards employment within the city our county for the summer.

3. Talk to your church minister.
   
   Your minister is similar to the school counselor in a lot of respects. But, he or she will also know what is going on with the personal plans of many members of the congregation. Good leads for summer day jobs at the church or local employment office can often be had. Churches also run summer long activity camps and you could be a helper or counselor.

4. Take out a classified ad in the local newspaper.
   
   When all else seems to not work, advertise yourself. "Motivated, Responsible, and Honest Teenager looking for summer work." is a quick starter. The key to the ad is to emphasize your positive character traits, your willingness to work, and your flexibility for the summer. You might be surprised at how well your ad is received.

5. Start your own summertime business.
   
   Maybe a low paying job isn't your cup of tea. Maybe the minister/counselor didn't have any good leads. Start your own business. If you have a lawnmower you are potentially hired already. Look for a niche that you can fill. Using the lawn mower example, you could provide simple yard work for people who don't normally have a weekly lawn guy coming in. Or, rent yourself out as a house and pet sitter. In the end, being willing to take a job and being self-employed will often equate to plenty of work for the summer.

Tips & Warnings

• Never give up. I've personally used each of these strategies and they will work for you as long as you are persistent.
• You are not applying for a career or long term job. So your resume and long range goal statements really are not needed. You can use these summer jobs to enhance that resume for opportunities down the road though.
• Just because you are not going to the interview in a suit and tie doesn't mean you are free to dress down either. Conservative dress is best. Church or School attire short of a coat and tie will be fine.
• How you speak is important. Avoid slang, cursing, text message shorthand, ebonics, or any other mannerism that places you in with the crowd of teens who've already applied. Simple manners and clear speech will work wonders.
• If told that the position is filled, be gracious and polite. Do not burn a bridge you may get the opportunity to cross at another time.

Resources

• Part-time jobs for teens, college students, and high school students
• Jobs for high school students
• Student Jobs with the US Government Portal