Tag Archives: summer job

Check In on Your Summer Job Performance

goal_setting_2020_webWe’re now about halfway through summer in the United States, and for many that means reaching a halfway point in their seasonal job. With a few more weeks to go before summertime wraps up or you head back to school, now is a great time to reflect on what you’ve accomplished in your summer job so far.

To help you check in on your summer job performance, we’ve compiled a few tips below.

Look back
If you set goals for the summer, now’s the time to see where you’re at on those. Do you think you’ll accomplish them by the end of your summer job stint? Do you need to adjust the goals at all? Take time to evaluate yourself and determine how to best move forward.

As you look back, also take note of the things you accomplished! Did you hit any goals sooner than you planned? Was there a project you took the lead on? Keeping track will come in handy as you interview for jobs in the future and will also help you identify strengths and weaknesses you may not have focused on before.

Focus forward
As you continue your mid-summer self-assessment, make plans for the remainder of the season. If you haven’t achieved the goals you set at the start of the season, focus on how you’re going to accomplish them in the coming weeks. If you have already achieved your goals, set more! Now is not the time to slow down or become complacent. You can continue to focus on your goals, build important relationships, and develop your skills.

Finish strong
For the remainder of the summer, as you think about heading back to school or start looking for a more permanent position, do your best to stay committed on the work at hand. A summer job can be a great stepping stone toward a more permanent position within that company or industry and you don’t want your hard work from the first half of the summer to be tainted by a lack of effort in the second half. It’s important, now more than ever, to keep pushing forward with tenacity and commitment to delivering your best work.

How is your summer job going? Do you have any tips for assessing your own job performance? Share with us in the comments section below!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Make a Cool Impression at Your Summer Job

cool_impression_summer_job_webEvery summer, many students look for temporary work while they take a break from school. Summer jobs are a great way to make money, meet new people, and enhance your resume. They’re also an important stepping stone in your career path, whether the job you choose is part of your overall career goals or not. According to Nicole Williams, a business owner in New York City, “You want to impress your boss. You want to do everything in your power to make this job a great opportunity for you.”

So, how do you impress your boss and make sure your summer job leads to bigger and better opportunities? Check out the tips below to stand out from the competition this summer.

Adjust your routine.
Staying healthy and rested makes you a better employee. Instead of staying up late or spending hours watching television before the lights go out, create a bedtime routine that will allow you to get the sleep you need for better job performance. If you like to unwind before bed, consider reading a book instead of spending time in front of the screen. According to Reuters, using a technological device before bed dramatically increases the likelihood that you’ll need more than 60 minutes to fall asleep. Getting better sleep can make you less drowsy, which in turn can up your creativity and efficiency. Plus, walking in the door on time or a few minutes early helps show your boss that you take the job seriously.

Go above and beyond.
While your current role may be perfect for you, if you have plans to move up in the company, you may want to consider taking on additional projects to show your initiative. According to career author Dan Schawbel, “If all you do is what is listed in your job description, it’s impossible to get ahead.” So, keep an open mind when you’re asked to take on additional projects or roles and see if your can-do attitude helps you get noticed.

Learn from your mistakes.
It’s impossible to be perfect all the time. Once you accept this fact, you can learn to embrace any mistakes or failures you experience on the job. If you receive a performance review or other feedback that is less than perfect, try to recognize the constructive criticism as a way to improve. Look for the lessons in your mistakes and use them as a chance to grow both personally and professionally. “If you aren’t afraid to learn, then you’re going to be in a position for more success in your second, third, and fourth jobs,” Williams said.

Network, network, network.
We talk a lot about networking on this blog, and for good reason. Networking is an important way to connect with people who can help you land a job, find a new opportunity, or expand your list of references. Even if you only plan to work at your summer job for a few months, you can use the opportunity to meet as many people as possible. You never know what connections they may have or how they can help you with your future career goals.

Pay attention to your wardrobe.
If your summer job requires a professional wardrobe, don’t skimp on quality. Looking professional is important in the workplace and can make a positive impression on your boss, co-workers, and customers. Luckily, there are cost-effective ways to achieve a professional look. Check out clearance sections at department stores, or consider looking at local second-hand stores for professional attire without breaking the bank. If your job requires a uniform, always keep yours clean, ironed if necessary, and professional. Showing up to the job with a uniform that isn’t up to par can make you seem uninterested or unmotivated–two qualities you don’t want a potential reference to mention with your name.

Whether your summer job is part of your career path or just a way to work while taking a break from classes, your workplace performance matters. Make connections, learn new skills, and use learning opportunities as a chance to grow and be better prepared for your next job.

How do you plan to make a great impression at your summer job? Let us know in the comments section below!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Ramp Up Your Stalled Summer Job Search

Summerjob_June2011_web Today marks the official first day of summer with many individuals still looking for that perfect summer job. The national unemployment rate has risen to 9.1%, leaving many seeking seasonal or part-time jobs feeling frustrated and lost.

So, what can you do to reignite your stalled summer job search? Whether you’re looking for a seasonal position, or a career in your desired field, keep the following tips in mind.

Your job hunt is your job.
When on the lookout for a job, treat your job hunt as if it’s your full-time job. The majority of job seekers send out a number of résumés and then wait for companies to contact them.

Be proactive in your search and follow up with organizations you haven’t heard back from. Sometimes all it takes is a simple phone call to check on the status of the open positions to get the hiring process started.

Treating your job search like a full-time job will encourage you to build momentum, become more invested in the process, and even get a few offers from interested companies.

Revamp your résumé.
Reassess your cover letters and résumé to highlight specific skills you’ve developed in previous positions, rather than just listing work history. Tailor each cover letter and résumé you send for the specific position or company you are applying for. Taking a little extra time during the application process will add a touch of sincerity employers will not take lightly.

Quantify your achievements on your résumés. For example, if you helped reduce costs or increased sales at your last position, say so. Naming your achievements will be far more impressive than only listing former employers.

Work on your online presence.
Broaden your networking contacts online to ramp up your job search. Having a LinkedIn profile can be an excellent tool to refer hiring managers to during the interview process. However, know that your online presence will be viewable by potential employers so manage it closely.

Use social media to expand your contacts, but avoid the pitfalls that typically come with it. Don’t publish suggestive pictures of yourself, offensive tweets, or even status updates complaining about your current employer. Remember that anyone interested in hiring you has the ability to find your online presence, so use social media with caution.

Summer is associated with relaxation, heat, and seasonal jobs. Knowing that employers will have many candidates to choose from, it’s important to not allow a few stalls in your job search to keep you down. Persevere throughout the bumps and trials that come with job hunting and you’ll have much to celebrate this season.  

3 Benefits of Getting a Summer Job

Every summer, thousands of people take on summer jobs to generate extra cash. And, this summer is no different. But, earning extra cash isn’t the only benefit of landing a summer job. Check out these three benefits of having summer jobs and start looking today.

1. Possibility of Full-Time Work. According to CareerBuilder’s Annual Summer Job Forecast, 23% of employers plan to hire workers specifically for the summer months. And, of those 23%, nearly 56% of employers said they would consider hiring summer employees for full-time positions later on. So, if you’re looking for continued employment opportunities, working a summer job can help you get your foot in the door.

2. Building Your Résumé. Hiring managers like to see lots of work experience, regardless of industry, on an applicant’s résumé. In addition to the skills you can learn at your summer job, showing a potential employer that you’re versatile, well-rounded, and capable of holding down a job will help you in the interview process.

3. Exploring a Career Path. If you’re undecided about your future, working a summer job in a variety of industries can help you shape your career path. You can experience a variety of environments, positions, and companies that interest you. Summer jobs also give you the opportunity to pursue passions outside of your day-to-day job, and can potentially lead you to your dream job.

Working a summer job can benefit more than just your pocket book, it can benefit your future. So, remember these benefits of a summer job when considering whether or not you should find one. To learn about summer job opportunities near you, contact your local Express office.  

Where to Find Hot Summer Jobs

Summertime is a great season to pick up a second job or work a temporary gig. Every summer season, there are many positions available other than fast food and retail jobs. You just have to know where to look. So, if you’re out of school, between employment, or just looking to pick up some extra cash, make sure to check out these hot summer job opportunities in your community.

Work Outside

Many cities have a local parks and recreation department that’s responsible for community pools, golf courses, and other activities. Parks and recreation positions are available seasonally to job seekers who want to enjoy the sun and heat of the summer. Check out your local parks and recreation website to find employment opportunities for positions like:

  • Lifeguards
  • Pool help, such as selling snacks or accessories
  • Golf course attendees and golf cart drivers
  • Ballpark concession stand workers
  • Sports umpires and referees
  • Park maintenance and security

Work with Children

Many children who are out of school for the summer participate in summer activities like sports or need a baby-sitter while their parents are at work. So, if you’re interested in working with children this summer, check out these seasonal jobs: 

  • Daytime camp counselor
  • Tutor
  • Baby-sitter or nanny
  • Class instructor, such as arts and crafts or sports instruction
  • Summer school assistant

If your schedule allows, getting a summer job can be a great way to build your résumé, earn income, and even make friends while still having fun in the sun. The possibilities of summertime employment are already growing, so find the job that’s right for you – whether you’re looking to improve your job skills or just get a tan.