How to Find Your Teen a Job

Teaching a teenager to find a job has far-reaching benefits.

Jobs fill a number of important functions for teenagers. A job can teach responsibility and the value of money. It can also help to pay the household bills or provide savings for college -- as well as spending money. Regardless of the reason you want your teen to work, it will probably be necessary to help him find his first job. You can teach him job searching skills, show him how to look for a job and even ask people you know if the places they work are hiring.

Instructions

1. Teach her how to look for a job. Get out the classifieds for your area and show her how to find jobs that she is capable of doing. Teach her to write the job information in a notebook, and review how to act when she calls about an interview. After you go through the process a couple of times, let her do it on her own. You also can show her how to apply online through job search websites.

2. Show him how to dress for a job interview and how to act during the interview. Ask sample interview questions and let him get the hang of answering them in a friendly environment before going through the process in an office.

3. Encourage her to walk to nearby grocery stores, fast-food joints and other customer-facing establishments to fill out job applications. By focusing on walking distance, your teen will find a job that does not waste gas and keeps her fit by walking every day.

4. Ask your friends and family if they know of anyone who is hiring. This can unearth a position that has not been posted anywhere yet and will place your teen in a friendly environment since you may know someone who works there.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep tabs on the hours your teen is working. Finishing work at midnight on Monday when she has to be at school Tuesday morning may not be the best option for her.

• Talk to your child on a regular basis. Find out what is happening at work so you can teach him how to respond to real-life work situations and make sure he is safe.

References

• CNN Money: Help your teen get a summer job
• Kids Health: Making Sure your Teen's Job is Safe