How to Land a Summer Job (Even in a Competitive Hiring Market)

Jun 2

3 min read

For many teenagers, a summer job is about much more than earning money. It's an opportunity to build skills, gain experience, develop confidence, and take an important step toward independence.

This year, however, many reports suggest that summer employment is more competitive than usual. If you've been applying for jobs and haven't received a call back yet, don't panic. There are still plenty of ways to improve your chances and stand out from other applicants.

Here are my top tips for locking in a summer job this year.

1. Follow Up on Applications

If you've submitted an application and haven't heard back, don't assume the answer is no.

Take the initiative and follow up.

Stop by the business in person or call and ask to speak with the hiring manager. Introduce yourself, express your continued interest in the position, and politely ask if there is any update on the hiring process.

Before reaching out, prepare a short script. Be ready to explain:

Why you are interested in the position
What skills you bring to the job
Why you would be a reliable employee

Employers notice initiative. Sometimes a simple follow-up can move your application from the bottom of the pile to the top.

2. Practice Interviewing Before You Need To

Many students wait until they get an interview before thinking about interview questions.

Don't.

Spend some time preparing now. Practice answering common questions such as:

Tell me about yourself.
Why do you want this job?
What are your strengths?
What is an area you're working to improve?

Research the position you're applying for and think about the skills needed to be successful. The more comfortable you become talking about yourself and your experiences, the more confident you'll be when the opportunity comes.

3. Create a Simple Resume

Most summer jobs don't require a resume. That doesn't mean you shouldn't have one. A resume immediately helps you stand out because it shows initiative and professionalism. It also gives employers a quick snapshot of your strengths.

Include:

School information
Volunteer experiences
Clubs and activities
Sports
Leadership roles
Skills and certifications
Previous work experience (if applicable)

Even if your experience is limited, a well-organized resume demonstrates effort and maturity.

4. Build Skills That Employers Value

One of the best ways to become more marketable is to earn certifications or training that employers recognize.

Examples include:

CPR and First Aid Certification
Lifeguard Training
Babysitting Courses
Referee Certification
Food Safety Training

These credentials not only strengthen your application but also show employers that you are willing to invest in yourself and your future. Many of these certifications can open doors to higher-paying opportunities both this summer and in the years ahead.

5. If You Have a Job, Make the Most of It

Already have a summer job lined up?

Great.

Now focus on doing it well. Show up on time. Be dependable. Work hard. Ask questions. Learn from your supervisors.

Strong performance this summer can lead to:

More hours
Better responsibilities
Leadership opportunities
Future references
A job waiting for you next summer

Consistency matters. Future employers pay attention to students who demonstrate commitment and reliability.

No Job Yet? Create Your Own Opportunity

If summer starts and you're still without a job, it may be time to shift your thinking. Instead of looking for a job, consider creating one. Many successful entrepreneurs started by identifying a need in their community and offering a solution.

Ideas might include:

Lawn care
Pet sitting
Dog walking
Babysitting
Tutoring younger students
Car washing
Social media support for local businesses
Yard clean-up services

The skills you gain from running your own business—communication, customer service, marketing, problem-solving, and financial management are valuable long after summer ends. Who knows? A small summer project could become something you continue throughout the school year.