Jobs Needed: Class of 2011

It looks like finding a good summer job may be hard for the graduating class of 2011. Working enough hours and making money are major concerns for local high school seniors who talked with Farmington-Farmington Hills Patch:

Bridget Elezovic, a new alum, has worked at Emagine Theater in Novi for two years. But she is only scheduled 18 hours a week. “If I had a choice, I would be making more,” she said.

Working is important for Elezovic, who said she is responsible for paying for her own phone bill, car insurance, gas and anything else she wants to have.

“Some times are better others, but I've learned to balance my wants between my necessities,” Elezovic said.

Melissa Novak, a grad, works at , a job she landed one year ago through a family friend. She only works 17 hours a week, so she is looking for another job.

“I’ve applied all over the mall and at salons, but no one will hire me because I’m under 18,” Novak said. “Nobody takes me seriously, because I’m in high school.”

Sean Dorsch, who graduated Sunday from , works at the snack bar. Dorsch said that he would like way more hours than he is getting.

“It is frustrating, especially with college coming up,” Dorsch said.  “I have a lot coming up financially that I don’t know if I’ll be able to afford.”

Lauren Cachat, another Mercy graduate, teaches swim lessons and lifeguards at the , the City of Farmington Hills recreation center. Cachet only works once a week for three hours.

Farmington High graduate Alyssa Nens has been working at Hollister, a clothing store in Novi, since December. However, she makes most of her money doing chores at home for her dad.

“I am not working as much this summer and whenever I want to go out, I have to ask my parents for money or I drain my account,” Nens said.

Mercy graduate Gabriela Facchini plans to babysit full time this summer. Before finding that job, she applied at five places, and no one was hiring.

The State of Michigan released a report in May that indiciated this summer's job market would be challenging for teens.

"Securing a summer job is often a challenge for many teens, even in the best of labor market conditions," said Rick Waclawek, director of the Department of Technology, Management & Budget's Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives. "This year, teens will likely face increased competition from adults for available jobs.  However, there are specific industries and occupations that produce significant numbers of job openings each year for young workers."

The report advised teens looking for jobs to consider the following:

• Start looking early
• Keep looking
• Visit local businesses
• Let friends/neighbors know you are looking for work
• Talk with school guidance counselors
• Use on-line job boards and newspaper want-ads
• Think about self-employment: lawn service, pet sitting, etc.

In addition, these key items may help to make a good first impression with employers:

• Dress appropriately
• Be on time to the interview
• Be well groomed
• Bring information needed to complete an application
• Have a list of a few references
• Maintain a positive attitude