Being on your own with your first professional job can be daunting. Use these tips to help you on your way to financial success.
Don't Pass Up Career Experience – Summer is a great time to work on building your resume and explore your future career. Contact companies you are interested in, checking for internships or other positions. Also check with your school's career planning area for ideas. You may not be able to find full-time opportunities, but let the employer know that your schedule is flexible. Just getting a few hours a week is a good way to gain experience and potentially get your foot in the door. Consider unpaid positions as well. If you accept a job with few hours or an unpaid position, combine it with a money-making job in retail, at a restaurant or tourism. Reach out to friends and family to explore their connections.
Go Where the Tourists Are – Find paying jobs in tourism such as amusement and water parks, hotels, car rental companies, etc. You'll usually have to apply in person, so dress business casual. Also check out your local parks and recreation department for opportunities. These positions tend to fill fast, so make your connections as soon as possible.
Check Out Charities – Donating your time to local charities is a great way to lend them your expertise and possibly build career experience at the same time. It shows future employers your dedication to community.
Create a Job – You can also explore your entrepreneurism by starting a small business, just by word-of-mouth. Start babysitting, do landscaping and lawn care, walk dogs, do computer work or help people get organized. Look for opportunities through family, friends and neighbors. Your satisfied customers can become references for you someday.
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