Can Your Parents Help You Find a Summer Job?

So, you’re a student looking for a summer job. You know your parents or family members might be able to help – but how much is too much? You don’t want to depend on them and rightfully so. However, a little networking never hurts. After all, that is how the world works! Here’s how you may be able to ask for help, without leaning on mom, dad or other family members too much in the process:

Ask for Job Search Resource Suggestions

You may be familiar with the best sites to spot jobs but your family may know the local hot spots to search bulletin boards, community centers and neighborhood listings. Never underestimate the word of mouth, either! Your family may have heard that a local shop is hiring or, perhaps, saw a sign in the local florist’s window. Multiple sets of eyes are always better than just your own.

Ask for Contact Information

Do your parents or other family members have contacts within businesses that may be hiring? Don’t ask them to get you a job but, rather, ask if they would mind putting you into contact with the individual they know. If they don’t want to make an introduction (which would be ideal), ask if they would mind sharing his or her contact information with you, so you might be able to pursue getting into contact on your own. It’s just a matter of getting your foot in the door – the rest of the process is all on you!

Ask for Help Developing a List of Strengths

One of the most difficult tasks in creating a resume is coming up with strengths, skills and abilities about yourself. Luckily, your family knows you better than anyone and is in a key position to help you come up with a comprehensive list. In addition, they can help you develop a list of your interests as well. Obviously you’re ultimately aware of your own interests, however, coming up with them on demand is often more difficult. When they point out the obvious, you may realize what your summer job path should be much more quickly than doing so alone.

Mind Your Manners

From seeking an application, dressing appropriately and conduct on the job, it’s important that you understand what being professional looks and feels like - even if it is just a summer job. It can make all the difference in the world between getting the job, keeping that job and having a return job offer for the next summer. A good rule of thumb is to act how you would when meeting someone’s parents for the first time. When in doubt, you can ask your own what they think about your attire, your impression, etc. Remember, it’s best to do all of the work on your own but it’s ok to get a little bit of help and guidance along the way!