You spent the months of April and May panicking about getting a summer job. You perfected your applications, fretted over your résumé, applied for countless jobs, and now the time is finally here to begin your summer job. If you haven't worked since last summer (or maybe this is your first job!), you might be a little bit rusty. But don't fret! Here's a list of 10 ways to nail that summer job!
1. Communicate, Communicate, Communicate
Whether it be conflicts with scheduling, questions you have about the parameters of the job, or curiosities about the way things work, it's always best to ask. Don't shy away because you think it'll make you look bad. Most likely, your boss (or co-workers) will be more than happy to help you out and fill you in. That being said...
2. Format Communications Professionally
Emails and text messages are the two of the primary ways you will communicate with your boss and co-workers and in the long run, it helps to look professional. Know how to punctuate your sentences, utilize capitalization and paragraph breaks, and if you're feeling fancy, set up a signature line to end all of your emails if you haven't already. Even if you're well-acquainted with your boss and/or co-workers, being professional will show them that you care, and could help with getting a job in the future.
3. Know How To Take And Make Phone Calls
If you're at school until late April or early May, and won't be around for an interview until then, there's a good chance your future boss might want to have a phone interview. It's helpful if you are well-versed in sounding cool and collected over the phone, even if on the inside you're freaking out a bit. Plus, if you have to take phone calls as part of your job, this task is crucial!
4. Have A Professional Wardrobe
Now, if you have a summer job that requires a uniform, this step might not apply to you. But if yours doesn't, this step is key (at least until you find out whether or not your boss is strict with wardrobe guidelines). It's always beneficial to have a set of clothes that will demonstrate an air of preparedness and professionalism. It may just be a summer job, but that summer job could lead to internships and jobs in the future! It's always nice to have people who would be willing to vouch for your work ethic. Take it seriously.
5. Be On Time
This may seem like an obvious one, but being on time is so important! Not only does it make a good impression with your boss, but your co-workers will appreciate it immensely if you're there to start a shift on time and they don't have to stay late and cover for you. They'll be more willing to help you out when you need it. Making friends will always work in your favor!
6. Make Eye Contact
This one is particularly for those working in customer service, but making eye contact in pretty much any job is a skill to master. Making eye contact is just one way to exude confidence and take ownership of the job you're doing. And anyway, having an interaction with someone who won't look you in the eye is just weird.
7. Be Flexible
In a summer job, it's likely your boss will have you do odd jobs throughout the time you work for them. It might not necessarily be in the job description, but showing a willingness to learn, and having an ability to catch on to new jobs quickly is always a nice résumé builder, and your boss will be thankful.
8. Pay Attention
This tip is important throughout the duration of your job, but especially important during your training period. You're going to be expected to repeat these steps without someone by your side coaching you, so pay attention! It'll mean a lot to your boss to know you can catch on quickly.
9. Be Friendly
Again, this one might seem self-explanatory, but if you're not careful, you can fall into a pit of being bored with your summer job, and not realizing the kind of vibe you're putting out. A lot of summer jobs, and jobs in general, involve some aspect of customer service. While you are working, you are the face of the company for the customers. You want to make a good impression, both so that your boss will see and so that customers will come back.
10. Have Fun
Summer jobs are a blast. A place to make new friends, learn new things, and make money all at the same time - which is all a broke college student can ask for. Have fun and make the most of your summer!
