Finding seasonal jobs in Bend, Oregon as a high school student

I'm looking into seasonal jobs in Bend, Oregon, to gain some work experience. Can anyone recommend places where high school students are likely to get hired or tips for landing a job?

Pursuing a seasonal job is a productive way to gain work experience and make some money. Bend, Oregon has various opportunities due to its tourism and thriving local economy.

1. Tourism Industry: As a prime location for outdoor endeavors like skiing and mountain biking, many local businesses hire seasonally to meet the demand that tourism brings. Outfitters, equipment rental places, and ski resorts like Mt. Bachelor are places to consider.

2. Retail and Grocery Stores: Chain retail stores, like Target or Walmart or local grocery markets, often need extra hands during busy seasons. For a more local experience, try the Bend Factory Stores or the Old Mill District.

3. Food Service and Restaurants: Local restaurants, cafes, and fast-food chains often hire part-time and seasonal staff. Bend's food and beverage scene is diverse, and working in these settings can provide valuable customer service experience.

Here are some more general tips to consider:

Start Early: Most places start to hire for the holiday season from mid-October to early November, so make sure you start applying early. The same goes for summer jobs—begin looking around Spring Break.

Leverage Local Job Boards: Sites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn are good for job searching, but don't forget to check local resources too. The Bend Chamber of Commerce, for example, has a job board that lists opportunities in the area.

Prepare a Resume: Even if you don't have work experience, create a resume that lists your relevant skills, academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and any volunteer work.

Network: Spread the word among family and friends that you're looking for a job. A personal connection can often lead to job opportunities.

Practice for the Interview: Once you get an interview, be ready to talk about why you're a good fit for the role, how you work as part of a team, and how you handle customer service situations.

Remember to maintain a professional demeanor, dress appropriately for the task, and follow through with any commitments you make. And most importantly, while work is important, make sure to balance your job responsibilities with your academics and downtime. Best of luck on your job hunt!