As many collegiettes know, the freedom of summer isn’t exactly…free. As beach day budgets begin to tighten and summer shopping sprees start to fade out, many students will be searching for summer jobs. Whether you’re looking to work at a camp, behind a computer or face-to-face with customers, Her Campus has the tips and tricks you need to get there.
Resume Reminders
Many professional college courses will give advice on making your resume suitable for your major. However, for a summer job, be sure to cover these basics:
- Any contact information(name, phone number, address, email) should be clear and prominent at the top of the page. Be sure to use a professional, easy-to-remember email address (usually based on your name or initials) rather than one that is cute, funny or suggestive.
- Your resume should include an objective,your high school and college education, as well as any previous work experience. Date each entry (month, year – month, year) and list them beginning with the most recent. Also include awards and accomplishments, languages, and any special skills that are relevant (proficient in Microsoft Office, CPR certified, etc).
- Don’t have any previous job experience?Often times, extracurricular activities, teams and organizations can prove suitable substitutes if they show leadership, teamwork, and other real-world skills. Providing solid references (either through contact information or reference letters) can give your resume another advantage from an outside source.
- Resumes should be simple and concise– many employers will spend less than 20 seconds scanning over your paper. The less time they have to spend filtering through the fluff, the more time they can spend getting to know you.
What to Wear
Finding something to wear can be tough, especially when you’re trying to make a good impression. In the heat of summer, struggling into a heavy blazer or tight panty hose may have you breaking a sweat (and you haven’t even stepped outside yet!)
Stay cool and professional with a tailored, sleeveless sheath dress in a neutral color (beat the heat by choosing a light color over black or navy) or by pairing a simple pencil skirt with a light silk or cotton top. Not sure about showing your arms? Carry a lightweight blazer with you and throw it on before you begin.
Pull hair back in a sleek ponytail or bun, and be sure to beat the humidity with a smoothing cream or gel. Keep jewelry simple and classic. Heels should be stylish and slightly conservative, but try adding a hint of summer with a wooden heel or a hint of white trim.
The key to looking great is keeping cool (literally). Remove your jacket and replace your heels with flats until the last minute, and be sure to choose a light makeup and perfume with a fresh, clean scent.
Expected Etiquette
Though the season has changed, the rules haven’t: manners still matter. You only have a few seconds to make a great first impression, so get off on the right foot by standing up tall, shaking hands firmly and keeping eye contact. Smile and speak confidently, even if you’re nervous.
Show interest and enthusiasm for the position, and take your time with questions. It’s better to slow down and give a well, though-out answer than rush through your answers. Replying with “Sir” or “Ma’am” can’t hurt, either. Neither can being on time.
Tackling the Tough Questions
- Why do you want this job? Each answer will be personal and specific to you, but this is your chance to show why you’re there. Is it close to home or school? Do the hours fit your schedule? Will this position give you the opportunity to meet new people or do something you enjoy?
- Why should we hire you? Think about what skills you have that make you qualified for the position, or what sets you apart from others. Do you have previous experience in the field? Can you learn easily and fill in when needed? Are you motivated and work well with others?
- Can you tell me about a time you overcame a challenge? This is your chance to show the interviewer how you handle yourself in the face of difficulty. Did you not get accepted to a program or organization the first time? Did you have to accomplish a task with limited time and resources? Have you had to overcome a personal struggle?
- Do you have any questions for me? This is often the last question of an interview. One of the biggest errors to avoid is saying “No.” Instead, come prepared with one or two more in-depth questions, such as, “Can you describe for me a typical day in this position?” or “If I’m offered this position, how soon would you like me to start?”
Regardless of what is thrown at you, it always helps to be prepared. Get together with a friend and do a couple of practice rounds. When they day arrives, you’ll have some solid answers to draw from.
Following Up
Surprisingly, only about 10 percent of people follow up after an interview. Try sending an email the same afternoon thanking the interviewer for his or her time and indicating that you look forward to the next meeting.
Your summer job might be the first thing on your mind, but it’s not always the employer’s. If you are not contacted after a few days (and unless it is made clear not to do so), call and ask if a decision has been made. This will show your interest in the position.