Perfecting Your Résumé for a Summer Job

This ed's first summer job was teaching tennis to kids. She will never forget Malcolm. He ruined her summer. Follow Ebelean's rules, so you can get a summer job that doesn't involve a racket-wielding, foul-mouthed 6-year-old. —SparkNotes editors

Times are tough. Just when you think you've got everything right, you open your wallet, and find... nothing. Where did your money go?

If you rack your brain, you may remember buying some food at a cafe because the lunch you packed was inedible. Or maybe you might have accidentally gone on a shopping spree last weekend. But, but, it was necessary! Really!

Now you need money, and the only option is a job. Whether you're looking for a first part-time job to get some gas money, or a full-time job to earn tuition, an essential part of any job application is the résumé.

Not just any old résumé will do. In these harsh economic times, it can be pretty hard for a teen to get hired when there are plenty of other people with more experience available. Here are a few tips on making your résumé the best in the land:

1) Adjust your résumé for whatever job you're applying for.

Looking for a job as a summer counselor? Mention that you spent many summers at camps as a kid, that you have tons of babysitting experience, or that you have a First Aid certification. You may have trained monkeys for the last five years (because you are awesome), but if that doesn't apply to the job you're going after, don't emphasize it.

2) List any distinctions you've received in school.

Do you have a 4.0 GPA? Did you receive an award for exemplary citizenship? How about a certificate for being a top Spanish student? Listing these things shows that you've been recognized as exemplary in your school—which potential employers will translate to dedication in the workforce.

3) Make your résumé readable.

Don't try to fill up your résumé with lots of fluff. It may look nice when skimmed over, but if your prospective employer decides to actually peruse it in detail, this attempt to look more impressive will most likely backfire.

Layout is also important! Try to list your most important experience/qualities first, and make sure the most important parts of your résumé are prominent and easy to read.

4) You don't need to use "I" or "me."

A résumé is like an English essay; don't use "I" or "me." If you say things like "I volunteered at shelters,"  it's redundant (because your résumé is obviously about you), and is unprofessional.

5) Spell check.

Sure, this seems obvious, but having a flaw-free résumé can be the edge you need to get the job. Often, employers complain about error-ridden résumés and applications from teens. Make sure that you are not lumped in with that group.

Now that you've written a kick-butt résumé, go out there and get that job! And if you want to send me some of your paycheck, I won't mind.

What's the scariest thing about applying for jobs?

Related Post: Get a Sweet Job this Summer

Wanna write for SparkLife? Send your submission and nickname to contribute@sparknotes.com for consideration.