How to Find Jobs for Teens
So, you're finally ready to break out the allowance zone and get a job. Getting a job as a teen will impress your friends when you start bringing in a paycheck and your parents will see you as more responsible. However, knowing where to look and how to land the position is crucial to your success. Now get ready to find a job to start that car fund or put away some money for college.
- Compile a resume and cover letter. It is important even if you have little to no job experience that you know how to make a resume, it shows employers that you are serious about working and sets you above the rest of the pool of applicants.
- Know your availability and the state allowances for working as a teen. If you are under the age of 15, you can only work up to 3 hours a day and 18 hours maximum a week; any person above age 15 has unlimited hours.
- Look for something that you are qualified for. Many teens find jobs in retail stores or fast food establishments. Don't apply for a CEO job, sure the salary sounds great but more than likely you are not qualified for the position.
- Use every resource. It’s good to take advantage of career websites like snagajob.com, but also go into shopping malls and restaurants and if you can talk to an employee about working for that business or a manager about your future with that company.
- Dress to impress. If called in for an interview, make sure to leave the jeans and flip-flops at home. Donning your Sunday best, a blouse paired with skirt or slacks for the ladies and a shirt and tie with slacks for the guys, is your best bet.
- Mind your manners. When interviewing leave the slang and "text talk" at home. Address people with Mr. and Ms, or sir and ma'am unless directed otherwise.
- Follow up. After your interview, it is a good idea to send a thank you letter but do not hold out for that one job, keep applying for more positions at other businesses.
- Become your own boss. If the idea of reporting to someone else is not something, you are ready for yet then start a business. There are a range of services that people are looking for, from pool cleaners to babysitters, just pick something that excites you.