Search For Your Summer Job Now

Unless you already have a great summer job lined up, the time to start looking for one is now. This is especially true if you will be looking for a summer job in your field of interest or if you require one that pays well. To be more successful, get started early and follow these basic steps.

1. Start by describing your ideal summer job. Think carefully about what you want. Give some thought to the compromises you would be willing to make.

- Preferred type of employment - Industry / Field
- Preferred type of position - Office / Laboratory / Manufacturing / Outdoors
- Related to your field of interest, or not
- Acceptable locations
- Desired responsibilities
- Opportunity to learn
- Pay rate
- Transportation Issues
- Hours of work

2. Do some research. Before you get started, spend some time on the computer and looking at local newspapers to begin your research.

- Identify potential employers that align with your needs and wants
- Weight the pros / cons
- Identify contacts at desirable employers
- Include employers that would be of interest after graduation

The relationships you build each summer
open doors to great jobs after graduation.

-- Bob Roth

3. Network/Talk with the people who surround you. Make two lists. The first list should contain the questions you will ask your networking contacts, in order to gain the information you need. The other list should contain the names and contact information of the people you will contact. Remember, every person you contact will know other people who can help you. It is your job to find out who they are and what they know. Be certain to include the following:

- Professors
- Career Services
- Alumni
- Internship Coordinator
- Other Students - In your class / Upper class
- Friends & relatives
- Business Professionals
- Community Leaders

4. Assess your qualifications? What do you have to offer? When you come in contact with an employer who is of interest to you, be ready to answer their questions.

- Major in college / Field of Study
- Grades
- Previous experience - Work, Projects, Papers
- List of accomplishments
- What you are able to contribute
- Why should they hire you?

Note: Be ready to show your interest in them, their work and their company. Appreciate
what they are doing and what they have accomplished. Ask questions to show
interest. Let them know that you are excited by their work and where they are trying
to go. Be friendly and likable. Being likable always breaks a tie.

5. Prepare the tools you will need. Put these tools together early in the process and regularly look for ways to make them stronger and more positive. Impressive tools will give you an advantage.

- Resume
- Sales Letter
- Letters of Recommendation
- Reasons an employer should hire you
- Interviewing skills

Employers usually hire the people who are able to differentiate themselves in a positive way. Therefore, your sales letter and resume must emphasize your capabilities, past accomplishments, communication skills, leadership skills and the contributions you hope to make with the employer. If a past employer or a Professor is willing to give you a powerful letter of recommendation, this can be very beneficial.

During the interview, be prepared to use your communication skills, likable personality and positive attitude to present a few solid reasons why they should hire you. This is a good time to tell a few success stories and mention any compliments you received from previous employers. Employers love examples which prove that you are a good catch.

For more information visit Bob’s web site: www.The4Realities.com. Bob Roth is the author of The 4 Realities Of Success During and After College. Bob’s newest book The College Student’s Guide To Landing A Great Job is now available.