Martha and the Vandellas’ had a hit in 1964 when they told everyone, “Summer’s here, and the time is right for Dancin’ in the Streets.” Well, summer is also the right time to get a summer or seasonal job. You don’t have to be a high school student off for the summer or a college student between semesters to take advantage of the hundreds of short-term summer jobs.
I was shopping yesterday in Hilton Head, SC, and every store I went into had a sign on the front door – “Jobs Available,” or “Now Hiring.” When so many people are out of work, this is prime season to find a job that just might end up being more than temporary. If you’re still looking for a job or need another one to earn some extra money, now is that time when the “iron is hot” and it’s time to strike.
Where are these jobs? Here are some places to look:
1. Hospitality and Tourism – Any summer vacation destination is a good place to look. If you already live in one, like Hilton Head, SC or Orlando, FL, you’re all set. Once school is out for the summer, families head to their favorite vacation destinations. At the resort I worked, we hired over 200 seasonal staff to work for a nine-month period. We were a resort destination, and our season in sunny South Carolina ran from March to November. Some hospitality jobs will run just for the summer months, but it’s a great way to earn some money, make connections and test out the workplace environment. Work the numbers, though. If you have to spend $30 a day in gas to get to your $7.25/hr. job, the cost may be greater than the benefit.
2. Retail. The main highway into Hilton Head is lined with retail outlet stores, local shops, antique stores---you name it! They staff up in the summer to take care of those tourists who love to shop whether it’s sunny or rainy. And on a rainy day at the beach, people head for the stores to pass the time until the sun comes out again. Retail jobs keep you moving and on your feet all day, but the time passes quickly and don’t forget about the discounts.
3. Food Service. All those hungry vacationers need to eat, and restaurants, fast food places and catering services staff up to handle the crowds. Summertime is also the time for beach weddings, graduation parties and just time to celebrate with food and drink. Whether dining out, carrying in, or hosting a party for 50 of their closest friends, food service companies need cooks, servers and banquet staff to handle the summer crowds.
4. Leisure services. Do you like to walk, hike, kayak or lead tours? Love the outdoors? All those swimming pools and beaches need lifeguards and water rescue teams. The national parks need guides and other staff to take care of all the tourists who flock to the beauty of national parks like Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon. In Savannah, the trolley tour companies need help to take care of the hundreds of thousands of tourists who come to see the historic district and take the evening ghost tours.
Summer jobs may not lead to a new career, but it puts you back in the workforce, adds experience and skills to your resume and can open up a whole new career option. Getting out of your comfort zone or past job track can be refreshing and open up new opportunities. A great summer job that turns into an exciting new career can have you “Dancin’ in the Streets” by the end of the summer!
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