Whether you’re looking for your very first part-time job, a summer internship, or looking to make some extra cash over the summer, Indeed.com is one of the best tools to get started. It’s free, easy to use, and displays openings for all experience levels. At Youth Connections, we know how job hunting can feel, especially when you’re just starting out. This guide breaks down easy-to-use tips to help you land that job faster and with confidence.
What Makes Indeed So Useful?
Indeed.com pulls job listings from across the internet and allows you to search, apply, and track everything in one place. You can use it to:
- Search for part-time jobs, internships, and entry-level positions.
- Upload your resume or create one from scratch
- Set up job alerts so you never miss out
- Read company reviews from real employees
- Apply directly—sometimes with just one click!
Step 1: Creating an Indeed Account
What You’ll Need:
- A professional email address you check often (avoid nicknames or slang in your email)
- A simple headshot for a more complete profile (this is optional, but Youth Connections offers free headshots!)
- A list of your past experiences (school clubs, volunteer work, babysitting, etc.)
Pro Tip: Use your first and last name in your email (e.g., anna.smith03@gmail.com) to look professional
Step 2: Build a Strong Resume (Even If You Have No Job Experience)
Don’t let the “experience” part scare you! Employers also look at your soft skills, character, and willingness to learn. Here’s some points to include to make a solid resume:
What to Include:
- Education: School name, expected graduation year
- Work or Volunteer Experience: Babysitting, tutoring, helping a family business, and volunteering all count!
- Extracurriculars: Clubs, sports, student council, band, etc.
- Skills: Communication, teamwork, customer service, tech tools (Excel, Canva, Google Docs, etc.)
Pro Tip: Keep your resume one page long and use a clean, simple layout.
Step 3: Find the Right Job for You
Use the Indeed search bar to type what you’re looking for. Start with broad keywords then get more specific with your search.
Example Keywords:
- “Teen jobs near me”
- “High school internships”
- “Part-time jobs”
- “No experience jobs”
- “Summer jobs near me”
Pro Tip: Add your zip code or city to narrow results.
Smart Filters to Use:
- Job Type: Part-time, internship, seasonal
- Date Posted: Last 7 days (for fresh listings!)
- Experience Level: Entry level
- Remote: For online jobs like virtual internships or tutoring
Step 4: Read Job Postings Carefully
Before applying for any jobs, you should read the job description thoroughly to ensure that it is the right job for you. Look for these in a job description:
- Age requirement (some start at 14 or 16)
- Hours and schedule
- Job duties — What will you be doing? Can you picture yourself doing it?
- Skills needed — Do you have them, or can you learn them quickly?
Watch Out for Red Flags:
- Vague pay information (e.g. Up to “$30/hour”) but no real details are provided
- Requests for upfront money or personal banking information
- Poor grammar and no real contact information
Pro Tip: Stick to jobs with clear company names responsibilities, and application processes.
Step 5: Apply with Confidence
Some jobs allow you to apply with your Indeed profile. Others may take you to their employer’s site. Either way, follow directions carefully and double-check your application before hitting submit.
What to Include in a Quick Intro (if asked):
Hello, my name is Anthony Johnson, and I am a responsible high school student looking to gain experience in customer service. I am a quick learner and enjoy working on a team. I would be excited to contribute to your business this summer. Thank you for considering my application!
Step 6: Set up Alerts So You Don’t Miss Out
After searching, click “Get new jobs for this search by email.” You’ll receive updates straight to your inbox as soon as the new job is posted.
Pro Tip: Use different searches and create multiple alerts, such as:
- “Retail jobs for teens”
- “Remote internships for high school students”
- “Customer service jobs for students”
Advanced Tips to Stand Out
Add Keywords to Your Resume
Copy words from the job posting into your resume. For example, if the job listing states “customer service” and “multitasking,” include those if they match your skills.
Learn Soft Skills & Add Them
It’s not just experience that employers look for in a resume. Adding soft skills that are tailored to you can also help your resume stand out. Examples include:
- Teamwork (played sports or worked on group projects)
- Time management (balancing school and extracurricular activities)
- Communication (giving presentations or talking to customers)
Pro Tip: Skills Assessment on Indeed can you prove your skills with quick online quizzes!
Complete Prior Research on Companies
Before you interview, read the company’s reviews on Indeed, Google, or Yelp. It shows you care and helps you prepare better questions.
Use the Indeed App
Download the free Indeed Job Search App to:
- Apply from your phone
- Save jobs on the go
- Receive push notifications when new jobs match your criteria
For First-Time Job Seekers
- Start small: Don’t be afraid to apply for entry-level jobs like cashier, food runner, retail associate, or lifeguard.
- Volunteer gigs or internships still count as experience.
- If you’re under 18, some jobs may require a work permit—check with your school or Massachusetts labor rules for minors
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a casual email (e.g. lilswagkid88@gmail.com)
- Applying to jobs without reading the full description
- Not tailoring your resume or message
- Forgetting to check your email or application status
Don’t worry about rejection, it’s part of the process. Keep going and apply for multiple jobs each week where you believe you can thrive!
Final Thoughts
Your first job can teach you more than just how to earn money—it helps build confidence, skills, and future opportunities. With tools like Indeed, sometimes all it takes is a bit of preparation, consistency and follow-through. Remember: even if you don’t have tons of experience yet, your attitude, work ethic, and willingness to learn are what make the biggest difference.
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