In today's wide-open job market — with unemployment at a rock-bottom 2.2 percent — the possibilities are endless, but luckily your summer job doesn't have to be.

"A lot of employers, especially retail and restaurants, are so hard up for employees that they have to be flexible," said Beth Busch, president of Success Advertising, which runs the state's largest job fair.

That's great news for students facing a summer break who are looking for a temporary or part-time job that doesn't conflict with other priorities such as cruising with friends, summer romances and surfing.

"It's a job-seeker's market," Busch said.

Yet even in the best of times, a job seeker needs to be prepared — especially if you're trying to land your first paid work. These tips could help you clinch the deal.

Reach Loren Moreno at lmoreno@honoluluadvertiser.com.