Nobody understands the frustration of teenage job seekers quite like another teenager. That is the reason 18-year-old Celeste Lavin and her 24-year-old brother, Austin, created Myfirstpaycheck.com – a job-posting site for young adults.

Here in their own words is their advice to peers:

1. Be Brave. Even in this economy, there are employers looking for the affordable, enthusiastic, and energetic help that teenagers provide, but you have to go out and ask for it.

2. Be Prepared. Bring a resume and a cover letter whenever you apply for a job. Teens are now competing for jobs with adults and having a well-written resume is essential. It shows that you are serious about the position, and that you are mature and responsible. If you need help writing a resume, Myfirstpaycheck.com provides a dynamic free resume for teens that is very helpful.

3. Be Polite. You are applying for a job; dress up, make eye contact, shake hands, and avoid using slang. First impressions matter – they are your chance to prove yourself – take advantage of the opportunity.

4. Be Persistent. Persistence pays off; send a thank you note to interviewers, follow-up if you do not hear about the job after a week, and keep applying.

5. Be Creative. Look for work in places other than the mall. The weak economy means that people are going to be looking to cut costs in areas such as lawn and child care. Get a few friends together and start a landscaping or a babysitting business.