Unemployment is a word often reserved for adults, who may find it very difficult to get a job when the economy is experiencing a downturn as it is now. But unemployment applies to kids–especially teens–as well. Teens are at a time in their lives when they not only need money, but they need experience. Getting employment as a teenager is important for college applications, developing skills, and getting future jobs. Many teens look for jobs but cannot find them no matter how hard they try. It’s a struggle that can be extremely confusing, difficult, and sometimes even depressing.
The Challenge of Finding Jobs for Young People
If you are a teen or the parent of a teen who is currently unemployed and looking for a job, you must know that there are jobs out there. However, they are few and far between – there sometimes are simply not enough to go around. As teens, it is sometimes important to break from the standard way of things in order to get that job you really want. Whether you’re a parent or a teen, you will find the following employment tips for teens to be very settling in today’s job market.
How a Teen Can Find a Good Job
- Apply early. Many teens looking for a job start applying when the time they want to work is approaching. A much wiser strategy is to apply early, getting your name to the position before everyone else does. Being proactive about your job search will help at all stages, and applying early is a great start. Applying early also gives you the advantage of having more time to find more places to apply to. You will have time to follow up on your application to see if you will get the job.
- Have a good resume. Resumes are important, even as a teen. With basic word processing software, anyone can make a simple resume. List your qualifications, skills, activities, and education, even if they are not directly related to the job. Keep several crisp copies with you at all times – give them to potential employers and businesses, even if they are not currently hiring.
- Apply with non-conventional employers. Many teens have the mindset that they can only work in a store or restaurant. As a result, so many teens are applying and there aren’t enough positions for everyone. Consider applying for shelters, camps, offices, law firms, and even hospitals for employment. You never know who will be willing to hire you, so expect the unexpected.
- Talk to your school. Schools are the fastest route between employers and teen employees. In addition to regular part-time jobs, your school probably has information about internships and other paid employment programs for teens. Take advantage of all the resources that are available to you.
- Follow up. Completing an application for employment is only the first step. After that, you need to follow up and find out about your application status. Wait for a few weeks, and then try contacting the employer about your application. State that you would like to be considered for an interview, even if they don’t specifically tell you they are giving you one.
