Posted on: Tuesday, June 10, 2008
SUMMER JOB
Landing that summer job
By Zenaida Serrano
Advertiser Staff Writer
Join the discussion: Parents: Are your teens looking for a summer job? What advice do you have for them? Share your tips at www.hawaiimoms.com
Extra cash.
Those enticing words are typically all the motivation a teen needs to start looking for a job — and now's the right time, since school's out and seasonal openings abound.
Need some tips to land a summer job?
"The best advice is to probably look for something that you know you'll enjoy, because then you'll be good at it," said Paulette Wage, human resources manager at McDonald's Restaurants of Hawai'i. "So know yourself first."
Local managers offer five more tips to help teens find — and keep — what they're looking for:
Prepare for the job interview. Practice with a parent or friend, said Roxanne DeCoite, general manager of Consolidated Theatres' Pearlridge West Theatres, answers to questions the employer may ask you, such as: Why are you interested in working for us? Why should we choose you? Have good engagement and eye contact. Also gather needed documents and materials, including a work permit (if applicable), driver's license or state ID card, Social Security card and references.
Dress appropriately. "Don't wear a tank top or shorts, like you're going to the beach," said Lavina Wong, special events director at Macy's Hawai'i.
Be flexible. "Employers are looking for people who are flexible with their schedules, not somebody who says, 'I need to work Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.,' or 'I can only work Monday, Wednesday and Friday,' " Wage said. "They're looking for open availability."
Show genuine interest. "When they meet the employer, they need to show that they have an interest in the company and job, and that they are lively and have a good energy level," Wage said.
Commit to the job. "When they apply for a job and they get that job, they need to understand that they made a commitment and act responsibly," Wong said. Be reliable and show up for work on time. If you can't work — because of an illness, for example — make a courtesy call to inform the employer. And be willing to learn.
Reach Zenaida Serrano at zserrano@honoluluadvertiser.com.
