If you are itching to make money this summer, it’s time to start sending out applications. Below you’ll find 13 tips to help you put your right foot forward when looking for a summer job.

1. Determine what you want to get out of the job – Whether you’ve lost your job and are looking for a source of income or you want to use this job as a stepping stone to get you closer to launching your career, look for a job that will help you reach your goal.
2. Know your hunting seasons – During summer, places like theme parks, pools, vacation resorts, retail stores, restaurant and hotels become busy and these are the jobs that are most likely to hire. Look now because come summer the positions will be filled.
3. Identify prospective employers – Research employers you are interested in working for by doing a quick online search. The search can reveal the perks and benefits of working for a certain company. For example, if you work at a coffee or smoothie place, you’ll get a free drink when you are on your shift and this will help you save money on drinks.
4. Search for job openings – Wondering where the jobs are? Take advantage of career fairs held at your university or in the community to find them. Browse the classified advertisements in newspapers to figure out who’s hiring and send your resume to employment agencies. Browsing the internet for employment opportunities is also a good idea. Most importantly, network at parties and gatherings and ask friends and family if they’ve heard of job openings in your field.
5. Contact managers or the HR department pronto – Get in touch with the right persons as soon as possible to ask for an application. Leaving things to the last minute could cost you the job and the money that comes along with it. Expect to make a few calls to track down the correct person to apply to. Your time is well spent. Send it to the wrong person, and your resume may never be seen by the person who makes the hiring decision.
6. Develop a resume – Depending on the job you are going for, you’ll need to put a resume together to show that you are the best person for the job. Make sure you have someone else look over it to catch typos. Look online for popular formatting styles and always print with a high quality printer.
7. Prepare for your interview – Walk in knowing as much as possible about the company. Ask questions about the company that reflect your knowledge and passion for the company and your industry. Develop answers to common interview questions like why do you want to work here? What do you bring to the company? How do you deal with challenges? Practice with a family member or friend. You want to have your answers down.
8. What to wear – Dress conservatively for the interview and if you wear makeup, keep it simple. This is not the day to try the latest trends from the runway. Your clothes should be neat and tidy.
9. Complete applications – Make sure they are legible and you answer questions fully.
10. Be on time – And by that, I mean get there early. You may have to fill out paperwork so bring a pen and any other documents you may need.
    
11. Give references a warning – If you are putting someone down as a reference make sure to give them a call ahead of time to let them know you are using them as a reference. Tell them about the position you are going after and why you would be good in the position so they too can be ready to recommend you.
12. Things to leave behind – Cell phones and laptops can be useful, but you won’t need them the day of the interview. Put your phone on vibrate to avoid awkward interruptions. No texting until after you walk out with a job.
13. It’s all about attitude – The positive kind, of course. Have a positive attitude and be professional. Don’t make it all about money and the time you’ll be getting off or you’ll get looked over. People want to hire applicants who are excited to work for them.

What tips would you give those on the job hunt?