“What might be funny to your friends might be off-putting to an employer,” he said. “We’ve seen some that are — for lack of a better word — sometimes a bit too racy or too edgy. Employers might get a wrong impression of you.”

Meg Warder, president of the 1880 Train in Hill City, which hires teens every summer, said taking the time to fill out an application carefully and neatly goes a long way. She agreed it’s important to dress up a bit for the interview, and most of all to communicate with her if any problems arise.

“If they can’t make it, just make sure they call to reschedule,” she said.

Warder said sometimes teens are afraid to call. “Don’t be afraid. Just call and most employers are happy to reschedule.”

Even if you don’t have a lot of experience interviewing, it’s still important to go through the process on your own — and not have your parents call and set something up on your behalf.

Virginia Garrigan, human resources manager at Reptile Gardens, said she’s seen more of that lately.

“The parents are coming out or calling for the kids, and that really rubs me the wrong way,” she said. “They’re old enough to come out themselves.”