Are you a teen hoping to find work? Don’t let the sheer number of applicants scare you. Tough economic times mean more competition for fewer opportunities, but you can still land an after-school or summer gig, say career experts.

Here are their tips for success: Cast a wide net. Let people know that you are looking for a job and that you are willing to take anything, says Shawn Boyer, CEO of . Do your research. Know the company, the audience and how you can contribute before applying, said Gary J. Vien, vice president for human resources at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island.

Complete the entire application, said Vien. If you don’t have work experience, put down extracurricular activities, said Boyer. Have a resume. If you lack traditional experience, list school activities, volunteer work and meaningful class assignments, said Brad Karsh, president of .

Be professional. Make sure your e-mail address is appropriate, and that your voicemail is professional, said Boyer. Practice interviewing. Be sure to rehearse your answer to “Why should we hire you?” said Yahoo! Hot Jobs senior editor Tom Musbach. Be positive. Go into the interview with a great attitude, said Karsh.