Last year, teens slogged through the worst summer employment market in decades; this year likely won’t be much better, predicts outplacement company Challenger, Gray & Christmas. “Many companies are just being very careful about taking too many chances coming out of the recession,” says CEO John Challenger.
What’s a teen to do? Here are a few tips:
Get out early. Summer may seem like a long way off, but it’s not too early to start looking. Employers at amusement parks are already filling summer positions, says Shawn Boyer, CEO of SnagAJob.com, a job board for hourly positions. “Getting out early is probably one of the most important things you can do,” Boyer says.
Consider odd jobs. Use your entrepreneurial skills to make money baby-sitting, mowing lawns, tutoring or even teaching your adult neighbor how to use Facebook, Challenger suggests. Finding or creating jobs that aren’t advertised means you’ll face less competition.
Overdress for interviews. Even if you’re applying for a job that doesn’t require a tie, pull one out for the interview, Boyer says. Dressing professionally conveys maturity, and it’s more acceptable to overdress than underdress.
Don’t give up. Teenagers tend to give up on finding a job sooner than more experienced workers because they don’t expect competition to be so fierce, Challenger says. Besides, most students can think of more amusing ways to spend a summer. But working for even three months can increase your chances of finding a full-time job when you need one. So even if you apply for a dozen jobs and hear nothing back, don’t give up. Persistence is key.
— Distributed by Tribune Media Services