Unless you’ve been living underground for the past year or so, you probably know that now is generally a tough time to be hunting for a job.

But that doesn’t mean  you should give up without trying to find a source of income in the off-season. Finding a job may not be easy this summer, but it could be the one thing that keeps you out of bankruptcy. Here are some tips to maximize your odds.

Get started early. Even before finishing finals, those college students planning to work over the summer should begin the job hunt. This will give you a head start over less forward-thinking peers. You can even tell potential employers that you’re willing to work a few hours a week until the end of classes, then amp up your time commitment.

Use your connections. Sure, most teenagers don’t rub elbows with high-powered CEOs, but they do have important networks available to them. Talk to neighbors, teachers, guidance counselors and family members. You never know who might need summer help (or know someone who does).

Be your own cheerleader. Interviews are no time for modesty or self-deprecation. When you’re speaking with a potential employer, talk yourself up: mention academic and extra-curricular achievements, leadership roles you’ve had and other accolades you’ve earned.

Look in likely places: Some employers have jobs that are more teen-friendly than others. Consider applying to swimming pools, movie theatres, fast-food restaurants, valet jobs and even banks. Ask friends and relatives where they’ve worked in past summers – sometimes unexpected venues provide great summer gigs.

Get creative: Convinced that no one in your area is hiring? Think outside the box: many busy people are happy to relieve themselves of certain chores for the right price. Try offering your services as a babysitter, personal shopping assistant to a retiree, lawn mower or errand-runner. These jobs may not pay especially well, but a little money’s better than nothing.

Mind your manners on interviews: No matter what the dress code for the job you’re applying to, dress nicely for an interview. Avoid chewing gum, smile often and send a hand-written thank you note afterwards.

Go for a second summer: If you’ve worked somewhere in the past, apply there again (assuming it wasn’t too awful). You’ll be attractive to your employer because you won’t need training and you aren’t a gamble like new applicants.

Don’t Get Discouraged

Even if you don’t find a job right away, keep looking. It won’t be easy to find employment right now, but tenacity could well pay off.