If your savings and checking accounts are feeling a little underfunded, don’t worry! Summer is quickly approaching, and it's a great time to find a job. If this is your plan, now is the time to begin preparing for your job search!
- Start the process by having a conversation with your parent or guardian about your summer plans. Get their buy-in first. They may have a vacation or an educational opportunity planned that could impact the amount of time you have available to work.
- Brainstorm about where you might work. Ask yourself where and what you would like to spend your summer doing, what skills you have or want to develop, and what opportunities are nearby.
- Prepare to hear a lot of “No’s” before you hear the right “Yes!” Remember, it’s just a part of the process, so you should not take it personally. Be mature and polite with everyone you meet, and leave your contact information in the form of a resume or application. Even if the initial answer is no, a position may open later, and you want the manager to remember you well enough to call you!
- Whether you are filling out an application or turning in a resume, keep in mind that neatness and accuracy count! You’ll need to list the names and addresses of schools and former employers, including the dates of when you attended, references (can be neighbors or teachers), and what days and hours you are willing to work.
- Dress appropriately and be well groomed. A potential supervisor will be looking for someone who is eager to work and who cares about making a good impression. When you head out the door to drop off applications, does it look like you are going to the beach or are you sending a clear message that you are ready, willing and able to work?
- Be prepared for an on-the-spot interview. Speak confidently about why you want to work for this employer, about your skills, and your eagerness to be a great employee! Now is not the time to be shy…make eye contact and show what you know! Before you leave, try to get the manager’s business card.
- Remember to follow up in person or write a professional thank you note (that’s why you need that business card)!
- If you are offered a job, you will need to get a work permit (these are usually obtained through the school you attend), and bring all necessary documents your new employer requests. Now is a great time to set up Automatic Deposit of your paycheck into your Green Account. It’s a quick and convenient way to cash your paycheck, and it gives you ready access to your funds. Contact LA Financial if you need help with this process!
- Be on time, and be ready to work. That means arriving to your new job with a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn.
- Finally, set up some financial goals when you start your job. Of course, you want to earn some spending money, but it is wise to put a portion of your earnings towards a longer term goal like senior year activities (class ring, prom, Senior Pictures), buying your first car, or college expenses. You’ll feel great at the end of the summer when you have a healthy savings account balance which proves how hard you’ve worked, and you’ll be closer to meeting your long term financial goals.
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