How to Get a Work Permit and Job as a Teenager

Summer is often a time of rest and relaxation for teenagers, but a motivated few might want to seek employment. If you are a teenager who is under 18 and looking for a cool summer gig to land you a few bucks in your pocket, you must get a work permit first. So make sure your parents are on board with your employment aspirations, because you will need their help.

Instructions

1. Talk to your guidance counselor at school. Frequently, you can get a work permit from your school to fill out and have your parents sign. If your school doesn't offer work permits, take a trip to your local county office to pick one up.

2. Think about what you like to do and see if there are any jobs available in that area. Or, if you want the job to be more fun and social, look for jobs at a pool or popular teen hangouts, like the mall or a restaurant. This way, you can work and socialize at the same time.

3. Fill out the applications neatly and present yourself in a professional manner. Even if the job is something casual, like taking tickets at the movie theater, you still need to impress your potential employers.

4. Practice interview questions with friends or your parents before your interview. Since this is probably your first job, it's hard to know what to expect, and you can benefit from the experience of others.

5. Follow up with the employer after your interview. Either call them and thank them for their time or send them an email. Sometimes that small effort can go a long way toward securing your summer job.