A lesson for teen hires

The teen summer job search season has begun and once again, it is likely to be a highly competitive market for fewer jobs.

One example: At STEP-UP Achieve Summer Jobs, an AchieveMpls program that supports career and college readiness for Minneapolis high schoolers, more than 3,000 applications were submitted for paid summer internships at local businesses and nonprofit organizations. Last year, 705 students were hired; this year's number is expected to be similar.

What should job-seeking teens do to set themselves apart from the competition? Stand out, says George Ellis, program associate for STEP-UP Achieve Summer Jobs. The opportunity to be noticed begins when the teen requests an application.

"This is really your entry point. If you go into a store at the mall, for instance, the person who gives you the application might actually end up being the one doing the hiring," said Ellis. "Some kids think it's square when I point this out, but first impressions count. Tuck in your shirt. Shake his or her hand. Introduce yourself."

When Ellis and his colleagues wade through this year's STEP-UP applications, one simple factor can start the applicant off on the right foot: neatness.

"We are in a Blackberry and iPhone age. Kids aren't used to handwriting, but if the application is a mess and doesn't look presentable, that makes a difference," he said. "Take time with it. Have pride in your work."

Landing an interview doesn't guarantee a job, but it's a chance for teens to set themselves apart. The key, Ellis said, is preparation.

Parents also can give kids guidelines on what not to wear during a job interview: Caps, baggy jeans and short skirts are some top offenders. Putting your best foot forward -- which means clean, presentable clothes -- can make a big difference.

Ellis recommends that after an interview, teens follow up with a handwritten thank-you note.

"I believe it can really make an impact with an employer. They will see it sitting on their desk and it's something they can remember you by. It's much more effective than an e-mail that will probably end up being deleted," he said.

Many teens looking for work

Cynthia Matthias, coordinator for the Teen Job Fair that will be held Saturday at the Minneapolis Central Library, said more than 1,000 teens attended the event last year and they are expecting similar numbers again.

Matthias said she understands that many teens put a high priority on making money during the summer, but if paying jobs can't be found, volunteer positions are a useful alternative.

"It's good for teens to have job experience of any kind that they can talk about with potential employers," she said. "A good volunteer can demonstrate they know what it means to show up, to be responsible and committed. Adults take note of teens who conduct themselves professionally.

"It's all about making connections. Teens need to build a network just like adults do -- studies show that something like 85 percent of people are hired for a job because they knew somebody," Matthias said.

Finding a job can be an education in itself. Said Ellis: "The key is not giving up. Be persistent, because that's what gets you in the door."

Julie Pfitzinger is a West St. Paul freelance writer.