Part 2 of 3 in the Summer Job Series - How to Get the Job: Résumés, Applications, and the Interview
You found the jobs. Now here's how to actually land one.
Most job offers don't go to the first applicant. They go to the third or fourth — because the first person rarely follows up. The teens who get called back do three things differently: they write a résumé that works with no experience, they apply with intention, and they show up to the interview prepared. Here's how to do all three.
Step 1 — Build a simple résumé
No experience? No problem. A first résumé doesn't need work history. It needs to show you're a real person who shows up and gets things done.
What to include:
Keep it to one page. Use a clean, readable font and leave white space — a crowded résumé is harder to read than a short one. When in doubt, cut rather than cram.
Every bullet should answer one question: does this show I'm reliable, a team player, or capable of learning something new? If yes — keep it. If not — cut it.
A strong bullet looks like this: "Collaborated with classmates to plan and run a school fundraiser, coordinating tasks and meeting a tight deadline."
Step 2 — Apply smart, not wide
Five focused applications beat fifty generic ones every time.
Pick five jobs you'd actually show up for. Employers can tell when you wouldn't. Then customize each application — one sentence is enough. Mention the company by name and say why you're interested in that specific role. It takes two minutes and sets you apart from most applicants.
After five to seven days, follow up. Most applicants never do. A polite follow-up shows initiative — exactly what employers want to see in a first-time worker. Keep it simple: "Hi, I recently applied for the summer position and wanted to follow up. I'm still very interested in the role and would be happy to provide any additional information."
Step 3 — Prepare for the interview
You don't need to sound perfect. You need to sound prepared.
Before every interview, spend ten minutes looking up the company. Know what they do, who their customers are, and one reason you'd be a good fit. That alone puts you ahead of most first-time applicants. And arrive five minutes early — being late ends the interview before it begins.
Practise these questions out loud before you go:
For "tell me about yourself," here's a strong starting point: "I'm reliable, eager to learn, and I enjoy working with people. I may not have formal work experience yet, but I take direction well, I show up on time, and I'm ready to contribute from day one."
One more thing on body language: make eye contact, sit up straight, and put your phone away before you walk in. These things are noticed immediately — and they signal whether you take the opportunity seriously.
Your action items this week
This is general information only, not financial advice.
Up next — Part 3 of 3: What to do if you can't find a job, and the Summer Job Challenge.
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