FirstJobs for Teenagers

Are FirstJobs important to a teenager? You bet! If you are a concerned parent with a teenager looking for tips & advice, you need information about the pitfalls and special considerations of a firstjob. It is always important to consider the all the options available as you help your son or daughter make smart choices. It is especially important at this crucial first job time in his or her life when change is the only constant. A few tips for success is a great place to start!

There are several things you and your teen can look for as you both forage through the new landscape of firstjobs available. Be ahead in the firstjob search by paying special attention to the following:

Tips for the First Job Search

  1. Your child’s firstjob should reflect the social aspects of his or her personality. If your child is a social butterfly, a firstjob that connects that provides contact with the customer or client in some way may be a perfect fit. If your child has been somewhat of a loner since kindergarten, you may want to consider another strategy. A square peg is very uncomfortable in a round hole!
  2. A teen’s firstjob should have adjustable hours or shorter shift options. This is an often overlooked aspect of a firstjob search. Late evening hours should be carefully weighed and avoided if at all possible. A few questions up front can save you a lot of frustration down the road.
  3. Be sure to limit hours! This is very important even though some first job hunting teens want to work as many hours as they can (no doubt they are thinking of the “vast sums” at the end of a full-time work week!) Be firm with your teen in the amount of hours worked. You can set limits with a child’s employer that should be regarded as the working conditions agreed to. Remind your teen to mention these firm weekly limits to their prospective employer up front.
  4. Prioritize, Prioritize, Prioritize! This cannot be stressed enough. Grades should be top priority. Homework should be completed without fail. Working before the age of 18 years as a fistjob should be considered an addendum to the high school years, not a replacement!
  5. Consider an apprenticeship that gives your teen exposure to some aspect of their future career. An apprenticeship can be just the ticket to showing colleges your teen is serious in his or her field of study and has some experience as well. Some colleges even give credit for “time-served”!
  6. Be sure to help your teen plan time in his or her schedule to enjoy their family!