Whether ya just want some spending money or are saving up
for somethin’ huge, there’s no reason why a fab teen like you can’t rake in
thousands of bucks this summer, right? We’ve got 10 commandments to get you
started.
1. Start hunting now.
If you want a “regular” job this summer, you have to start looking at soon as
you can. Go around to all of the local places that usually hire teens during
the summer and ask for an application or drop of your resume.
2. Spread the word.
While we don’t recommend posting flyers in public places, there’s no reason you
can’t have mom ‘n’ dad get the word out on your behalf. Ask them to tell their
friends that you’re looking for work this summer—babysitting, dog walking,
house sitting, cleaning, yard work, web design, whatever it is you’re capable
of doing.
3. Be professional.
It doesn’t matter if you’re going from store to store asking for apps or if
you’re starting your own business. The younger you are, the more necessary it
is to look and act professionally. Wear nice clothes (think khakis and a button
down), a friendly smile and go easy on the makeup. Ditch the gum and messy hair
for a more put-together look. And remember your manners!
4. Start your own business. Are you really good at, say, making bracelets or creating your own
body lotion or designing posters? Then you really should consider selling your
wares and services. Make a website, hit up craft fairs and local vendors, and
invest in business cards, pronto.
5. Have references ready to go. If you’re looking for a flexible job that depends
on your dependability, you’ll want ace references to tell
potential clients how fabulous and responsible you are. Type ‘em up neatly on a
sheet of paper and have them ready to hand out during interviews.
6. Be persistent. As
school winds down and more and more tweens and teens start looking for summer
employment, you’ve got to make yourself heard. Don’t be annoying, but do
politely follow-up in person or by phone or email. A quick, “Hey! I just wanted
to check in and see if there was anything more you needed from me to make your
decision about this job,” will remind them who you are and reinforce your
interest.
7. Send thank-you notes. After an interview, sending a handwritten thank-you note is a must. It
will be a personal touch that will make your would-be employer wanna hire you
on the spot. What could be better than that?
8. Jump right in.
Sure, you might have been hired to scoop ice cream from 9 to 5 all summer long,
but when the boss says he’s thinking of starting a blog or wants to get his
business on Facebook, don’t hesitate to say, “Hey! I can help with that!”
Taking initiative will put a big gold star next to your name, sweetie.
9. Be
willing to do anything. You won’t get
anywhere by saying “no” to mundane, boring tasks that nobody really
wants to do. In the world of business, you’ll just irritate your superiors by
getting an attitude about your to-do list. Enthusiasm and a willingness to work
hard will get ya places, babe, so go with the flow even if it’s a li’l less
than fun. Sweeping up? Sure, boss!
10. Why wait? I bet you could free up a few hours
during the weekend or after school to start rakin’ in the dough a few months
before school lets out. By the time your yearbook is signed, you’ll already be
trained and ready to up your hours for the summer months. Score!
BY BRITTANY TAYLOR ON 4/1/2011 10:00:00 AM
POSTED IN On the Job, How to get a job, advice