High school is the time period in which adolescents experience new milestones. Teens get their license, receive more freedom, and start job hunt. This is one of the most stressful events during high school, especially in a heavily populated area such as Prince William County. It can be challenging competing with all other applicants, although there are steps to have a better chance of getting hired for a part-time job as a high school student.

 A convenient way to always stay within the job loop is by signing up for job alerts. Websites like www.snagajob.com, and www.jobs2careers.com will send out emails or alerts every time a job that the matches personal qualities of the user is posted. Sites such as these will survey what type of job an individual would like to pursue, and then match it to those in their system. This method is newer to job searches, but has quickly become a popular choice for exploring different opportunities. It offers variety from part-time to full-time employment. Junior Caitlin McIntosh often uses Snagajob, “and says, “I was having trouble finding a job in the area, but I have now had several interviews and I hope that one of them will work out.”

Electronic applications and personality tests  have also been added to the job market. Now  many industries or stores offer a tab on their personal website labeled career which can redirect users to an application process for their desired job. It will most likely ask a series of questions about available hours and education level.

 Resumes are a critical part of the application process. By building an acceptable resume, the chances of being hired are bettered. Having references and experience is what most employers seek in a resume, so it is always helpful to list as many as possible, although not everyone has previous jobs or experience to add. This is very common because teens in high school are usually searching for their first job. While it does decrease the chances of being hired, it does not mean that is set it stone. Focus on places of employment that have a large personality portion, and asks for acceptable hours of work per week.  Emilene Parham went through a trial-error process, and says,“ When I first started applying to jobs my resume barely consisted of anything. Now I have a much more thorough written one.”

 It never hurts to go in person to seek out job offers. Some industries value a face-to-face interview, and wish for potential employees to take initiative. Be prepared for personal questions and ones on schedule. Throwing on the spot questions and scenarios are a favorite of those interviwers. Stay calm and be ready to say an acceptable answer; giving some sort of answer is better than not giving one at all. Junior Alyssa Stump says, “A job called me back saying they would consider hiring me. After that I just went in, to show that I was dedicated, I think they appreciated it. I am still waiting on their answer.”