The annual summer job shuffle has happened and the e-mails and phone calls have started arriving, demanding to know the answer to the question: Why Didn’t My Kid Get The Job?

As the mother of three, I can certainly sympathize with how difficult it is when your child wants to do something, and it just isn’t possible. For many of today’s teens, this is the first time they have heard the word “no”! Very upsetting for all involved!
One reason that your child is not getting a job offer this summer may have to do with their appearance. While it is fine and dandy that your child wants to express themselves with ragged, dirty clothes I would respectfully suggest they would be far better served if they came to their interview wearing something a young professional would wear. If their clothes could be clean and pressed, that would be an extra plus!

In addition, we are still receiving applications by the gross. We finished hiring in March so no matter how qualified the applicant, training has long since started (and in some cases has been completed!) as we are open for the season 24 hours a day! Next year your child may want to look for a job during March break, not after school is over for the year!

We employ a lot of students and I will tell you the number one biggest reason we do not hire these folks is because of their parents! Mom and Dad, your job is only to supply transportation to their interview. You should not be calling the business to inquire if they are hiring or to schedule an interview. The applicant needs to do this. Under no circumstance should you accompany them in to the business during their interview (or insist on staying in the room during the interview – seriously we have had parents do this!) or be calling to find out if they got the job. That is your child’s job. If they are old enough to work, they are old enough to make the call themselves and inquire as to the status of their application.

Summer jobs are hard to come by. There are far more applicants than there are jobs. To make sure your son or daughter gets the job of their dreams, you can help by making sure they look the part, apply early and often and have them take ownership of this process. It is, after all, their job!