One of the biggest perks of being 16 is the ability to get a summer job and make some hard earned money. One of the biggest problems is the fierce competition out there for those few select jobs. A big problem in 2014 is that teenagers are now in direct competition with adults who have been laid off and are feverishly looking for employment. These adults have the work experience that employers are looking for and one look at their resume would tell a manager that they are reliable and a good candidate for the job that YOU are on the lookout for.

In order to help you gain an advantage on this tight summer market, we spoke with Patricia Snyder, Assistant Vice President at State Street Bank to develop a great list of tips you can use to pump up your job search:

1. Use social media wisely. Go onto Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and let anyone out there know that you are ready and able to start working as soon as the school doors close for the summer. While you are there, clean up your Facebook and Twitter pages just in case a potential employer does a background check on their own. Be sure everything out there is appropriate.
2. Start looking early before anyone else even thinks about looking for summer employment. Be the first to get your application in and you will be the first to get an interview.
3. Fill out your application neatly and be prepared for your interview. Even if the job consists of outdoor work, go into your interview well dressed and with a lot of energy. Potential employers are looking for someone they can trust – and a good first impression is imperative!
4. Get yourself a list of good references and have them handy to provide toyour potential employer. Be sure to give the people a head’s up that they may be receving a call so they are prepared on their end also.
5. Keep your eyes and ears open. A potential job can be found anywhere: in the newspaper, on Craigslist, on Facebook, on a sign at your favorite restaurant, or by word of mouth. Be sure that everyone knows you’re looking for a job and keep your ears open when adults are talking about their workplace and/or a new restaurant that just opened up.
6. Think about an internship or volunteer work this summer – then next summer you will have something great to put on your resume. Potential employers will be impressed that you took the time to gain experience without necessarily getting paid.
7. Start up a business on your own. If you plan on just working the summer and not the school year then this may be your best opportunity for fast money. Start a landscaping, babysitting, or delivery service using your own resources.
8. Think strategically. Don’t just apply to Trucchi’s and Stop and Shop like everyone else. Think about where the most jobs are in the summer and aim for those. Is there a campground your family goes to that needs seasonal help? Are there any landscape places in our town that may know some private contractors looking for help?

Most importantly, the work you do is a reflection on your future. Start with the perfect interview, which will lead you to the perfect job – which will keep you employed for next summer also!