How to Get a Job as a Teen
For a teenager, looking for a job can be overwhelming. Putting together a resume and getting your first interview can be frustrating. The key to getting a job as a teen is to sell yourself.
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Instructions
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Put together a simple resume. List your qualifications and things you want an employer to remember about you. A resume also lets a prospective employer know that you are serious about finding a job. Be honest. As a teenager, you won't have a lot of experience. Do not put jobs and experience that you never had or completed.
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Make a list of places to apply for a job. Look in your local newspapers, go to the library to look at help wanted listings, use Internet sites to search for part-time teen jobs or walk around your city looking for help wanted signs. Many restaurants and department stores hire teenage employees.
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Dress appropriate for a job interview. Wear a nice shirt and pants or a skirt. Do not wear tennis shoes or jeans. Comb your hair nicely and look presentable. Dress like a professional, not like a "hip teenager."
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Apply for jobs you are qualified to do. Don't go out looking for an executive-level job if you are not qualified to do it. Start out at the entry-level position. It's better to start at the bottom and work your way up. Not many teens are at executive level.
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Prepare yourself for rejection. Mentally prepare yourself for someone to say, "No, I'm sorry, we don't need anyone right now," or, "We are not accepting applications at this time." People rarely get a job their first time around. Make sure you have friends and family to help support you during those rejection times. It can be hard to accept rejection as a teenager.
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Get up early and apply for a job. It's best if you are early applying for a job. The employer is fresh and will spend a little more time reviewing your resume and talking with you. Most teens get up early for school, so it should not be too hard. Set your alarm and get up!
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Show self-confidence when on an interview. Explain your skills and qualifications and explain that you are willing to learn. Let the interviewer know you are willing to help out in any way you can, and that you will go out of your way for special requests. Be honest at all times. You may also want to tell the employer of your school responsibilities such as study time and sports.
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Tips & Warnings
Look for a job doing something you are interested in and enjoy doing.
Never talk about your life when interviewing or after you have gotten the job. You are there to work, not socialize.
