Tips for student job seekers for summer

With summer approaching fast, unless you're planning to spend the summer at the beach, you will be looking for a summer job.

Summer jobs are usually harder to find because they are filled more quickly than other jobs. If you're in the process of searching for a summer job but don't know where to start, here are some tips to make your summer job-hunt successful.

Start as soon as possible. Businesses start looking for seasonal help months before the summer. Consider telling potential employers that you can work a few hours a week during the end of your semester and when summer comes, you can amp up your hours.

Tell people that you're looking for a job. Word of mouth gets a lot of people jobs if you "know someone who knows someone." Just make sure you are willing to put forth the effort in order to not make your reference look bad.

Be professional. Make sure that when you fill out applications your spelling and grammar is correct and you write neatly. In addition to the basic information on your application, add any other special talents you may possess such as computer skills, people skills, or any other skills the business may specialize in (stocking, cashiering, customer service)

Be prepared. Have your resume handy for all your interviews. Make sure you have a few questions to ask the interviewer. Always dress appropriately. Don't go to an interview in ripped jeans and a tank top (unless you're applying at Abercrombie & Fitch). Appropriate dress includes a button-down shirt and dress pants or an appropriate-length skirt.

Where should you start looking?

The Internet is always a good place to start. Job sites such as Yahoo! Hot jobs, Monster jobs and Careerbuilder are great sites to find local jobs within your search criteria.

– Career centers at school

– Local newspapers and free papers such as Pennysaver

– Store windows – businesses will usually always have "now hiring" signs posted in the windows.

– Job fairs

Some jobs are easier to get for the summer than others. Unless you're doing an internship, applying for a real estate agent, would not be a wise summer choice. Some ideal summer jobs to look for are:

– Cashiers at grocery stores such as HEB

– Stores at the local mall

– Fast food restaurants (we have many to choose from) it may not be glamorous but it's a job.

– Golf/country clubs

– Local tourist attractions (Texas State Aquarium, Texas Art/History Museum)

– Other self-employed jobs such as babysitting, dog walking, lawn mowing, etc.)

Jobs are everywhere, so don't be too picky when it comes to a summer job – remember that it's only temporary. If you end up wanting to stay at your job for longer than the summer, some jobs will make you a regular hire.

Make sure you're well-prepared, always be on time (or even 10 minutes early), be polite to everyone you speak to since you never know who you're talking to and have fun.