1. Target Internships:
- Many companies continue to offer summer internships to eager college students. Do your research on the target companies for which you'd like to work and inquire about summer internship programs, however, be sure to remain open to companies and industries outside your ideal.
- Don't expect to get paid for your summer internship. Many employers are cutting back budgets for these types of programs, and landing internship experience is priceless, regardless of the immediate monetary rewards.
2. Remove the stigma associated with temp employment:
- Many companies are opting to hire new employees on a temporary-to-permanent basis instead of diving right in to direct hire. If you are able to disregard the so-called, "stigma," associated with temporary work, you will see there are many benefits of tem-to-perm employment, for instance, it boosts your resume experience, expand your knowledge by learning a new line of business, and most importantly, it's a test drive.
3. Start NOW
- It's never too early to begin your summer job search. Target companies in your area and contact them directly inquiring about summer help. Reach out to local staffing and recruiting firms regarding project work. Go to the local library to peruse posted flyers. Wait until June to search for a summer job and you may find yourself holding down your parents' couch instead of building your resume during the summer months.
4. Cast a Wide Net
- Everyone should know you're looking for summer employment, everyone. The more people who know you're looking for a job the more quickly you will secure one.
- Inform your contacts on what your ideal job is and sell them on why you should be hired. When selling yourself to your network include information like major, year in school, previous relevant work experience, interest in the company, industry or position, work schedule flexibility and positive attitude. The more your network knows about what you want in a summer job and why, the easier it will be for them to be an effective mouthpiece for your job search.
5. Don't Treat it Like "Just Another Summer Job"
- Yes, your summer job may not be directly congruent with your long-term career goals; however, the contacts you meet now will prove valuable partners in the future. Make a good impression on your summer employer, and you will find yourself with a valuable resource with whom to reconnect after graduation.
