How to Start a Small Business to Build Youth Employment Skills

Small businesses that cater to youth can help them to develop work skills and gain experience. Youth employees will have the opportunity to participate in a work placement program. There are certain steps to take in order to start a successful small business to build youth employment skills.

• Contact employers who are willing to mentor youth. Talk to employers in the community and ask them about allowing youth to work in their business. If so, you want to discuss how much the business is willing to pay for the work.


• Provide training classes such as problem solving, interpersonal skills and communication for the work environment. Many teenagers do not have interviewing skills or know how to behave as employees. The classes can give them hands-on experience for future job opportunities.


• Expose the youth to a variety of career choices. Some teenagers think their career options are limited or think they cannot afford college. This leads to not going to college or obtaining a job instead of a career. You want teenagers to know there are options for paying for college and the different career choices. Being exposed to different careers will encourage youth to have high expectations instead of settling.


• Find a work placement program that focus on the youth’s career interest. Discuss career goals with students involved in the work placement program and provide career counseling. If possible, try to place them in jobs related to their career goals. The latter is not a requirement, because the job opportunity will still be a great experience to any youth.