Teens should get a jump on job search

Teens – it’s time to think about that summer job, only four weeks left until summer vacation. Here are some tips:

Start looking early. Don’t wait until school’s out to start looking for a job. Begin your search in the spring (now).

Learn to network. Advertised jobs can draw a huge number of applicants, so don’t rely exclusively on job postings. Let teachers, school counselors and adult friends know that you’re looking for work.

Pursue jobs that match your skills and interests. Do you prefer to work outdoors or indoors? Alone or with others? Are you good at math? Getting the right job increases your chances of success and can lead to good references for future employment.

Be prepared. Compile a written record of your work experiences. If you’re seeking your first “real” job, include instances in which you were paid for baby-sitting, mowing lawns, or other responsibilities. Ask teachers or other adults (but not relatives) if they will serve as references. If you don’t have a Social Security number, you’ll need to apply for one.

Don’t give up. Check back with employers in early summer. Some summer hires might have made other plans or just not have worked out.

Time to move on

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, June is the most popular month for Americans to move and relocate. Here are suggestions to help make your move easier and more efficient:

Before the big move

• Get the right supplies. Invest in sturdy boxes, packing tape and bubble wrap – moving and truck rental companies are typically reliable places to purchase these supplies. Remember to purchase enough products to create three additional boxes for each room. This way, you’ll never run out of supplies, and you can use extra for storage in your new home.

• Pack smart. Avoid over packing boxes – put heavy items in small boxes to avoid breakage, and separate fragile items with towels, sheets or pillows. Pack the heaviest things at the bottom of the box, then layer lighter items on top. Secure package contents by filling any extra space with crumbled paper.

• Pack room by room. Pack one room at a time, keeping a detailed inventory of each box and its contents. An easy way to keep track of everything is to clearly label every box in the same spot (such as the top left corner) with the corresponding room and box number (i.e., kitchen, box two of five).

During the move

•Check it out. Before moving any boxes or furniture, walk around your new home and make a list of any damages you may have missed on your pre-inspection. Be sure to turn on all lights and faucets, as well as locate the fuse box.

• File everything. During the move, keep a “moving” file on hand. This file should contain necessary paperwork (such as receipts and your lease), a list of your possessions, the damages list and photographs of any valuable items. After you’re moved, file it away – you’ll need it if you move again.

• Strategize the rooms. Unpack one room at a time, beginning with the kitchen. Store all perishables, and ensure dishes, glasses and flatware are easily accessible. Set up the bathrooms second, then focus on bedrooms. Don’t panic if you can’t get to the bedrooms during the first day – use this time to have a family campout in the living room.

After the big move

• Organize your home. Now that you’re in your new homes, it’s time to get organized. Store frequently used items on easy-to-reach shelves. Products that are used less often can be put in closets, while rarely used items belong in drawers.

• Label your world. Label storage areas and cleaning products to ensure these items are always returned to the proper place. Make sense of cords and cables by utilizing color coded labels, red for power, blue for speakers, etc.