Cash is the hardest thing to come by when you’re a teenager, unless you don’t mind asking your parents for money whenever you want to see a movie or have a soda with your friends. If, however, you don’t like pestering your parents, it’s time to get a job.

Whatever your work experience, your best chance of getting a job for the summer or school year is to go out and find one. For summer, start early, as in April or May, so you catch a good job before the mad rush starts. The more desirable jobs obviously fill up the fastest. Go into shops and malls and ask if they are hiring. Dress nicely, be open and friendly, and don’t be surprised if you are asked to fill out an application and be interviewed right away. Even if there are no openings, ask if you can fill out an application so they have you on file for when they are hiring.

The internet is also a great resource for finding a job. The following web sites all offer jobs for teens: snagajob.com; localteenjobs.com; goferretgo.com; studentjobs.gov; teens4hire.com; coolworks.com. All have search engines for finding the job you want in your area. Many employers also notify school guidance counselors and career counselors when they are hiring. So school administrators are also a great resource.

Another thing available at public schools in the United States that you actually need is a work permit. If you go to a private school or are home schooled, you can still go to your local public school and pick one up. Work permits are required for anyone who has not graduated from high school and is planning to work on a regular basis. Jobs such as baby-sitting or lawn mowing do not require a permit. You cannot work before you get a work permit but should wait to get one until after you are hired; because a portion of the permit must be filled out by your employer.

Think about the job you choose. Can you imagine working there for several hours a day? You should be comfortable with what you are doing, but keep in mind that most establishments prefer to hire someone with experience. The hardest job to get is your first job, but with persistence and an early start, everyone finds something. Unless you know someone on the inside, don’t count on an awesome first job.

However, on a more positive note, if you’re willing to start in a demanding job that may not pay as much as others, future employers will be more impressed with your resume. Such jobs also look better on college applications, although colleges are impressed just to see that you are productively employing your time and out in the work force in general.

Just beware of these five jobs, which the National Consumers League has named the most dangerous for teens: delivery or any other vehicular operating such as forklifts; working alone in convenience stores, gas stations, or other cash based businesses; selling goods such as candy or magazines on street corners or from door to door; cooking because of the exposure to hot surfaces and substances; and any construction work.

If you still have questions about getting a job,
“ How To Get A Job If You’re A Teenager” – by Cindy Pervola and Debby Hobgood is an extremely informative. Click on the cover for more information or to order.

How to Get a Job If You’re a Teenager
by Cindy Pervola; Debby Hobgood

Bibliography: Family Education, The Five Worst Jobs For Teens, www.familyeducation.com

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