If you have nothing to do during your summer break, you may want to earn some extra cash by getting a job. There are a lot of opportunities out there for high school students, if you know where to look:

• Get Working Papers If Needed - If you’re under 18, your state may require you to have working papers before getting a job. You can find out more information about working papers from your high school’s guidance office.
• Create A Resume - Create a resume highlighting any previous work experience, volunteer work, education and skills. For more, see Top Ten Tips - Creating A Resume.
• Have References - Have at least three references who can speak of your work ethic and responsibility. Teachers, former bosses, co-workers or someone you’ve worked with in a volunteer capacity are good references. Make sure to get their full names, phone numbers and job titles.
• Start Looking Early - Don’t start looking for a job in July - most summer positions will be snapped up by then. Start as soon as you can, even before school ends.
• Check Your School’s Guidance Office - Many employers will send job postings to school guidance offices before summer starts. Ask what jobs are available and if they have any sort of job-search assistance.
• Check The Local Library Or Newspaper For Job Listings - Library notice boards and local newspapers’ job search sections are great places to look for summer jobs.
• Target Heavily-Trafficked Summer Locations - Restaurants, beaches, retail mails, amusement parks and other places that are busier in the summer are likely to hire more employees during the summer months.
• Ask Friends And Relatives If They Need Housework Or Babysitting - There are a lot more chores to do during the summer, such as landscaping and cleaning pools. Also, children who are out of school need babysitters or nannies. Ask friends or relatives if they need any help, or ask if they know of someone who can use your services.
• Get CPR Certified - Take the summer to become CPR certified, which is a useful skill for anyone and any job they do. Ask your local hospital, library or YMCA if they have any classes.
• Start Your Own Summer Business - If you have a talent, make a business out of it. For instance, if you like to garden, try landscaping. If you play an instrument, give lessons to others. The possibilities are endless.

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