MODESTO, CALIF. ? The summer job hunt is in full swing for many high school students looking to earn some extra cash.

In a crowded field of applicants, the teenagers who will stand out from the rest are well-prepared and behave professionally, said Kathy Smith, the job coach at Turlock High School in California.

Smith offered this advice for summer job seekers:

Q: When should high schoolers start searching for a summer job?

A: Spring. April to May are the best months because it takes preparation to get a job. There may also be a second interview, a background check, calling references or orientations that can take two to three weeks.

Q: Where should you look?

A: The No. 1 way is networking, though your parents or relatives or someone you know. In our area, we have mostly customer service jobs at places such as fast food restaurants, department stores, hardware stores or movie theaters. Rather than putting an application at every business, narrow it down to your skills. If your skill is customer service and food, then apply at restaurants or snack bars. If you are shy, you may decide to try to work behind the scenes.

Q: Once you’ve identified a few places to work, how should you apply?

A: Always fill out the application yourself. Don’t let your mother fill it out for you. Bring your own black or blue pen so they know you are prepared. Most businesses will let you fill out an application on a clipboard. As times are changing, there are more and more businesses going online with kiosks.

Q: Now you’ve got that first job interview. How should you prepare?

A: Dress the part. Appearance is so important. Arriving 15 minutes early means you are on time. Five minutes early means you are late. Smile. It will relax you and leave a message with the interviewer. Don’t take a cell phone onto the premises, and go to the interview alone.

Q: If you want to quit your summer job when school starts, what’s the best way to do it so you can use your boss as a reference in the future?

A: Have good communication with your supervisors and give a definite two-week notice. The notice should be both verbal and written. If you have good communication with your supervisors, they won’t hesitate to be used as a reference.