Your Better Business Bureau offers advice for summer job hunters:
• Start your search now. Waiting may decrease your chances of landing a job.
• Spread the word among your network. Tell your teachers, coaches, family members and neighbors you’re looking for a job.
• Consider finding a job where you shop. You’ll be familiar with the product and you may receive a store discount.
• Treat this job search like you’d do any other. Dress appropriately and have your resume up-to-date. Be prepared to be interviewed on the spot.
• Be flexible. Summer employees are expected to work long hours, weekends, and nights and even on holidays.
• Share your strengths and job knowledge with potential employers.
• Be aware if you’re offered a job without applying, it’s most likely a scam. Don’t provide personal information because it could lead to identity theft.
• Be cautious if a potential employer will only communicate through text messaging or e-mails and never via phone. That’s a sign he or she may be trying to hide a foreign accent or may be avoiding giving out the phone number.
• Be skeptical of e-mails or text messages that contain poor English, are hard to understand or have a lot of grammatical errors.
• Be wary of someone charging a fee for training, background checks or drug checks. A reputable company won’t do business that way.
• Watch out for a company offering a large amount of money for little work.
Remember, if you’re looking for a trustworthy employer, contact your BBB to check out businesses you’re considering. For more advice on finding a summer job, visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
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