How to Get Jobs for Teens in Retail
Retail outlets are attractive targets for teens looking to get part-time or full-time jobs. Over half of all employed teens work in retail or service-oriented jobs, so if you want to beat the competition to land a retail job, you're going to need to know how to make yourself an attractive candidate.
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Instructions
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Target retail businesses that sell products you're interested in, since this will help you sell yourself as a strong candidate. If you love fashion, consider working at a clothing store as a sales associate. If video games are your thing, try working at a store dedicated to carrying the latest digital entertainment.
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Ask to speak to the manager when you go into the store. Don't just ask the desk staff for an application form, as you want to establish a presence and make a good impression on the managers who make hiring decisions. Even if the store isn't hiring at present, ask whether you can leave a resume to be considered in the future.
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Watch the ads in your local paper, use online job banks like Teens4Hire.org and GrooveJob.com and take advantage of youth-oriented human-resources services at your school (see Resources below). With the sheer volume of retail job opportunities that become available to teens, you'll find plenty of places to get a job.
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Stay on top of commercial developments in your hometown. When new strip malls or retail complexes are planned and built, new stores open, meaning new job opportunities for teens. Think ahead and apply early when these new projects near their completion and are preparing to open for business.
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Evaluate whether your personality type lends itself to working for commission-based pay. A lot of big-box retailers, especially electronics retailers, structure their pay scales to rely heavily on commissions. This might lead to better pay if you're a people person with closing skills, but more laid-back types and younger teens new to retail might not adapt as easily.
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Dress for success. Show up to your interview looking respectable, and prepare to demonstrate special expertise or enthusiasm for the retail items the store sells. Of course, if you have prior experience, you'll be at an advantage, but putting your best foot forward and representing yourself well is a good way to get your first retail job.
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Tips & Warnings
Head to your local mall frequently. Retail stores that are looking for help will often post help-wanted signs near their storefronts. You can then hop on top of new opportunities quickly.
Use the power of word of mouth, and network with your friends. A large percentage of job opportunities are never advertised. That's because those jobs are filled when current employees refer friends and acquaintances to store management.
Age restrictions limit the number of hours teens under the age of 16 can work. In most states, young teens are limited to 3 hours per day and 18 hours a week and must finish work no later than 7:00p.m.during the school year and 9:00p.m.during the summer.
A large number of teens who work in retail jobs report that their duties involve the use of potentially dangerous equipment. Ensure that you are properly trained when using any on-the-job equipment and know your rights. You have the right to refuse to do any task that poses a significant threat of harm, without fear of reprisal or reprimand.
