5 Summer Job Search Tips for Teens

In this tight job market, with more and more adults competing for jobs traditionally filled by students, teens have to start their summer job search earlier than ever and present themselves to employers with as much polish as possible. Share these tips with your teen to help make that search a little easier:

1. Be Brave
Even in this economy, there are employers looking for the affordable, enthusiastic, and energetic help that teenagers provide, but you have to go out and ask for it. Don't get discouraged by news of the economy, and don't be afraid to apply for jobs.

2. Be Prepared
Bring a resume and a cover letter whenever you apply for a job. Teens are now competing for jobs with adults, and having a well-written resume is essential. It shows that you are serious about the position, and that you are mature and responsible. Need help writing a resume? MyFirstPaycheck.com provides a free and dynamic Resume Builder.

3. Be Polite
You are applying for a job, so dress up, make eye contact, shake hands, and avoid using slang. First impressions matter, so take advantage of the opportunity to prove yourself.

4. Be Persistent
Persistence pays off. Send a thank you note to interviewers within 24 hours of the interview, follow-up if you do not hear about the job after a week, and keep applying for jobs in the meantime.

5. Be Creative
Look for work in places other than the mall. The weak economy means that people are going to be looking to cut costs in areas such as lawn mowing and child care. Get a few friends together and start a landscaping or a babysitting business.

"Learning how to apply for jobs isn't something we always learn in school, but it's an important skill," says Austin Lavin, Co-founder and CEO of MyFirstPaycheck.com. No matter how their summer job search goes, teens gain valuable experience from giving the process their all.

Created by 18-year-old Celeste Lavin and her 24-year-old brother, Austin, MyFirstPaycheck.com offers support for parents and provides young people with job and volunteer opportunities, advice, and resources for a more successful job search.