Outlook upbeat for teens’ summer job quest

COLUMBUS -- Teens wanting summer employment should start looking for jobs now.

Early searches could help find jobs even in a market that Bonnie McPhillips, regional manager of Nebraska Workforce Development, said is moving briskly.

Unlike some parts of the country that have felt the effects of a waning economy and a decrease in employment opportunities, the outlook on Platte County remains positive. McPhillips said the unemployment rate for the county has remained fairly steady.

The latest figure shows the rate at 3.1 percent. The unemployment rate here typically has fallen in the 2.5-3.5 percent range.

There are employment opportunities available now in the area, and there will be more as seasonal work pops up throughout the summer.

“The water park is already telling us they have summer needs for students. And the service sector (will be hiring). We have a lot more retail opportunities now,” McPhillips said, adding that other seasonal work typically includes hotel and restaurant help, lawn care, construction and local industries.

Myrna Ryba, corporate assistant at Staffco Employment Services, said many of the summer employment opportunities won’t be available for a few more months.

Those that are specifically geared toward teens include working at the Platte County Fair and at the horse races at Platte County Agricultural Park.

Older teens -- those who are 18 -- could have an easier time finding work because some of the jobs, like those at industries and in construction, require operating equipment. But McPhillips said being flexible and open to the opportunities out there will increase your chances of getting a job.

Whatever type of job it is you are looking for, Ryba said it isn’t too early to begin that search. A good place to start is by visiting an employment agency because some businesses don’t advertise positions. They instead work directly through those agencies.

It is at those agencies that prospective employees can get help preparing for interviews as well.

“Good resumes are wonderful. We have resume packets here. We would be happy to sit down with them and work with them on that,” Ryba said.

McPhillips said when searching for a job it is a good idea to be prepared for an on-the-spot interview when you pick up an application form.

“If you are not ready for that, you could miss your chance,” she said.

The whole experience of searching for employment, including the interview and application process, and, eventually landing a job, will prove helpful for young, first-time employees, McPhillips said.

“There is nothing like hands-on work experiences to help you mature. Good work experiences of any kind is very beneficial. It helps you not only with future jobs, but also as a student,” she said, because it teaches responsibility and a good work ethic.