Tips for Finding a Summer Job or Internship

Summer is fast approaching, and many young people will be looking for a summer job or internship. Don't wait too long before beginning the search; avoid that last-minute rush.

Where Do I start?

First things first. Think about what you would like to do. Look about your own interests and what lights your fire.

Here are just a few ideas to get the thoughts running:

Kids summer camp counselor

Working at the beach

Park ranger

Working in the mountains

Intern at a museum

Work at a zoo

Find an organization that falls in line with your future career interests and get some hands on experience.

There are many more ideas that can be worked upon.

Make Use of Your School

If you are still in high school you should be able to get assistance from the school guidance office or college career services office. They should be able to help you with your job search.

Discuss the possibility of an internship as these also supplement academic classes and sometimes can earn you a college credit.

Network

There are many other people who can help. Talk to teachers, family, former employers, coaches, friends, friends' parents, in other words talk to anyone and everyone. Don't be afraid to ask for more contacts especially in your interests and career hopes. Follow up and call these people, ask them about advice about how you should conduct your summer job or internship search.

Get in Touch With Employers

Go through your local phone directory and call firms that work in the area that you are interested in and inquire about a summer job or internship. The worst they can say is "no." When you call be prepared to tell them about your skills, strengths and why you want to work for them.

Should you decide to write and introduce yourself first be sure to follow the letter up with a phone-call. Show them you are keen.

Where else Can I Look for Jobs?

Most local newspapers carry a job section with help wanted ads. Check these out. Plus, lets not forget our old friend the Internet. Check out local websites as well as job databases that specifically focus on summer jobs, summer camps jobs, and internships.

Other Ideas..

How about starting your own business? Look at your skills and interests and the needs of the local economy where you will be during the summer.

Just some thoughts:

Hand-lettering house numbers

Sell ice-cream

Mow lawns

Paint houses

Design and market T-shirts

Wash cars

Care for pets

There are many ways that a summer can be spent in a profitable fashion and any job that you do will enable you to gain skills of one sort or another be it communication skills, business management experience, working with money and so on and so forth.