Summer Jobs, Lasting Benefits

Summer jobs are, by definition, temporary. Their benefits, though, can last long after the job is over: acquiring new skills, meeting mentors, and exploring the career paths available in areas of interest. That makes your summer job worth far more than the hourly wage you'll be paid.

To land the right job, take some time to prepare. Know what you want to take away from your summer job. Are you looking for computer skills? Customer service experience? A first step into a lifelong career? If you have the answers to those questions, you'll be more likely to interview with the right companies. You'll also have the answer to interview questions like, "Tell me something about yourself."

A Good First Impression

Make a good first impression. Your résumé will probably be in front of the employer before you are. Take some time to make it relevant and error-free. Create a cover letter that is specific to each position you apply for. Tell employers why you want to work for their company, and why they should want to interview you.

Arrive for interviews a few minutes early, and of course make sure you dress appropriately. If you give the interview your very best shot, you'll have learned something from it, even if you don't get the job. Go to www.summerjobs.com and click on "Articles/Advice" for more interview tips.

Start Early

Start your search early. The Minneapolis Step-Up and Achieve programs for low-income youth ages 14-21 have January deadlines. Apply for summer 2009 by downloading an application at www.achieveminneapolis.org, or pick one up at your school Career Center sometime in November. Watch for announcements.

The Summer Reads VISTA program started reviewing applications in March, but may still have some openings. The eight-week program pays a stipend and an education award. Program coordinator Angelina Kostreba says most applicants are sophomore or junior education majors, but the program can appeal to anyone who "really likes kids." Apply online: http ://www.theMLC.org /SummerReads.

For the first step in a long-term career, check out jobs with the Federal government at www.studentjobs.gov. You'll find information about all kinds of jobs and information about summer employment.

MNWFC Spells Help

The Minnesota Workforce Center System offers assistance to job seekers both through its website, www.mnwfc.org, and through statewide office locations. There are 11 Minnesota Work-force Centers in the Metropolitan area. The South Minneapolis center, at 777 E. Lake Street, has a special area called "The Zone" for job-seekers aged 14-21. The Zone includes four computers for researching jobs and preparing résumés, and a specialized career counselor. Phone: 612.821.4000 for hours and information.

Laura French is principal of Words Into Action, Inc., and is a freelance writer from Roseville.