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10 tips for scoring a summer job

Let me tell you a secret: Even if you don’t see an ad in the paper, or you call and the receptionist tells you the company isn’t hiring, you can still get hired. Doesn’t matter if it you’re looking into working at McDonald’s or Microsoft. Check out these tips for how.

1. Never ask if they’re hiring. Why not? Because it doesn’t matter. There doesn’t have to be an immediately open position if you’re the right person for the company.

Robbie Miller Kaplan, career expert and author of How to Say It In Your Job Search, suggests you use the following approach: “I’m interested in a sales associate position,” or “Banana Republic is my favorite store, and I would love to work here as a sales associate.” By not giving them the chance to say, “We’re not hiring,” you automatically up your chances of scoring a new gig.

2. Look the part. When going on an interview, look your best. Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean it’s OK to wear a strapless shirt, capris and flip-flops. Maura Schreier-Fleming, president of sales-training firm Best@Selling and author of Real World Selling for Out-of-this-World Results, says, “You may not have an Armani suit, but you can still be cleaned, neat and pressed.”

So whip out that semi-casual but tasteful outfit that’s been hanging in the closet collecting dust. Once the dough starts rolling in, you’ll see it was worth the sweat.

3. Don’t leave without talking to the person who does the hiring. It’s cool to ask to speak with the hiring manager before filling out an application. By doing so, you add a face to your application. If she isn’t available, find out when she will be and come back. Or, go ahead and fill out the application and follow it up with a phone call to schedule an interview.

4. Always take a résumé. Even if it isn’t a big corporate-type internship you’re seeking, you should take a resume. Presenting a resume for jobs people don’t usually bring one for makes you stand out.

5. Apply when they aren’t advertising. The best time to get hired is when there aren’t any ads in the paper. When there are ads, lots (and we do mean lots) of people will apply. Your chances of getting hired are much greater if there’s less competition. Kaplan suggests you make cold calls, appear in person or write unsolicited letters offering your services. It may sound like a lot of work, but it gets the job done.

6. Come with a referral. “Referrals always have an edge.” Kaplan says. “It takes some of the risk out of a new hire.” Network, and let everyone know you’re looking for a job or internship. But be sure the person you use as a reference has good standing on the job. You’ll only get shot down quicker if you say your friend Amy referred you, and Amy is a slacker.

7. Always ask questions during the interview. Schreier-Fleming says, “Show you’re prepared by checking out the company’s Web site before you go, and prepare to ask questions. When you say, ‘I have a question about something I saw on your Web site,’ it shows your initiative and your preparation.” Those are the things employers look for, so get to work.

8. Follow up. If you don’t get hired on the spot, follow up. Don’t just sit around waiting for them to call. Pick up that phone! Ask to speak directly to the manager, by name (you do know his name, right?), and ask about the status of your app. Here’s a good way to do this: “Hi, Mr. Richards, my name is Sally Gomez, and I’m an experienced restaurant worker. I filled out an application and brought in my resume two weeks ago. Is it possible we can set up an interview?”

After an interview, always send a brief note thanking the interviewers for their time. Be sure to express your interest in working for the company. According to Kaplan, so few people do this that just following up will help you stand out.

9. Never go to pick up or fill out an application in everyday clothing. Who knows, the manager may see you or may want to interview you the same day. Remember, when you fill out your application, you’re going to try your best to speak with the manager anyway. You do not want her to remember you as the girl in the skimpy skirt and clunky shoes. That is not a good first impression.

10. Don’t give up! If it’s a job you really want, keep trying. If it’s not, try other places. Even if they don’t hire you the first time, keep going. Persistence pays off…in paychecks!

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