College kids, high-school students, teachers and people looking to supplement their income – a long list of people will soon be looking for summer work. Whether you’re a working adult who needs additional income or a college student who wants to gain some experience in your chosen field, finding summer work can be challenging.
Higher unemployment rates mean tougher competition for summer jobs.
Higher unemployment means more competition for fewer jobs. If you want to earn extra income this summer, you need to begin your job search right away. Here are a few tips that can help you find a summer job:
Network – If you’re already working one job, chances are you know a lot of people who could help you find summer work. Your professional network may include people who are hiring seasonal employees or who know someone who is. Work your LinkedIn and Facebook contacts, send out email feelers and ask friends and family to keep their eyes open for opportunities for you.
Don’t forget the old standbys – You probably won’t find a seasonal job advertised on one of the big employment websites, but cracking open the want ads of your local paper might yield a wealth of opportunities. Check local print media and city-specific websites, and peruse those community bulletin boards at the post office, grocery store and your community clubhouse. If you’re looking for a local job, it makes sense to look where local employers most often advertise.
Capitalize on your skill set – According to a recent New York Times report, just one in four teenagers is expected to find a job this summer. Increased competition with adults also looking for part-time work is probably a contributing factor to that statistic. As a working adult, you have experience and skills that can make you more appealing in the job market.
Seize the low-hanging fruit – If you’re having trouble finding a summer job that fits your skill set, there’s no shame in going after work that’s below your usual pay-grade. If your objective is to supplement your income, less intellectually challenging jobs can fit your needs just fine. So don’t be afraid to pick up a few hours at that fast food joint down the street or sign on for weekend work with the local landscaping company.
Start your own business – Can’t find just the right job for you? Starting your own seasonal business may be the solution. You’ll be able to decide your own hours, fit the second job into your schedule and use the skills you already have.