Summer Job Hunting Tips from a Mall Store Manager

The resumes from students looking for a summer job at Santa Cruz Apparel in the Capitola Mall pile up like cholesterol in the arteries of a donut addict - two a day on weekdays, three  or four a day on weekends.

"We only take resumes," says manager Lisette Parks, 20, who has worked at the store since she was a 16-year-old student at Aptos High. "We don't hand out applications. They don't tell you enough about the person. If you don't have a resume, we don't want you."

What does she look for in the resume? 

"We look for prior experience and consistency," says Parks. "We don't want someone who has had a lot of jobs for a short time."

Availability is also important. The students they hire who have school and other activities, have to be able to work the shifts that are needed, including the busiest times, on the weekends.

But even more important than what is in writing is the way the person presents themselves. This store, which sells Santa Cruz branded clothing and skateboard equipment,  has 28 shifts filled by 10 people over the summer who earn $9 an hour.

The shop is owned by Lorna and T.C. Campion, who also own the Santa Cruz Boardroom on 41st Avenue.

"You've got to be outgoing," she says. "You can't come in here and be shy. This job is all about personality."

You feel it the minute you walk in. Every person gets a greeting from the three people who were working Tuesday afternoon. 

A lot of the job openings are filled by locals who know other locals who are friendly. Parks got her job from a friend and she hired co-manager Mariza Melendez, 21, who has been her friend since sophomore year in high school. 

She hired Daisy Aguirre, 20, because she seemed outgoing and friendly in a class they took together at Cabrillo College.

Parks goes to school in San Diego, at Miracosta Community College, but comes back to Capitola for the summer to work at the store.

"Most of the people who work here know someone who works here," says Parks.

The store's most popular items are those with the famous orange Santa Cruz dot on them. Parks says she also likes trying out new demo skateboards given to them by manufacturers. She rides a pink one now. 

What's the best thing about the job?

"The people we work with," says Melendez. 

The worst thing?

"The Mall," they say in unison. 

"You can't see outside," says Parks. 

"It could be raining out or a thunderstorm or sunny and we never know, except for that little skylight," says Melendez. " We have no idea if it's dark or light. There are no windows.

"And that recycled air, like, uhhh." adds Parks. 

So, what's her dream job?

"I'd like to own this store," she says. "I love retail."