Jobs for Teens

Jobs for Teens Classifieds

There are websites that are specifically dedicated to helping teens find a first job. In addition, there are many employers that regularly hire teens by listing openings in local newspapers, or by putting a help wanted sign in the window of their business.

Here are a few websites that can help you find those first jobs to add to your resume.

• GotAJob for Teens
• Snag A Job
• Target Stores
• Groove Job
• Teen Jobs

Volunteer Work

Volunteer work can sometimes turn into paying jobs for teens. Interesting places to work that hire volunteers include hospitals, historical centers, libraries and youth centers. Many of these places will take you on as a volunteer then watch to see how responsible you are while on site. When a paying job becomes available, you'll be top on the list when they are considering job candidates.

Working as a volunteer can also help you in other ways. Many schools require a community service component when you are attending high school. This is an easy way to fulfill that obligation while gaining valuable work experience. It can also help when you start applying to colleges. College applications ask if you've ever worked anywhere, and this includes volunteer work. Many admissions offices value individuals that have worked in a non-paying capacity, as it shows them that you are responsible and care about others.

Summer Jobs

Summer jobs for teens are often abundant. Typical places to find jobs for teens in your community during the summer include the YMCA, drive-in theaters, restaurants and public pools, just to name a few. Don't wait until the summer to start looking for these jobs though. The employers who are looking for summer employees often start hiring for them as early as January (for summer camps) and usually no later than a month before the summer season begins. If you wait until June to start looking, all of the jobs may be gone. Many of these job listings can be found either on-site where the job is located or in the local newspapers. You may also call these businesses and ask them to send you an application.

Applying for Jobs

Once you find a job you are interested in applying for, you will need to fill out an application. Before you put pen to paper, there are a few things you should know. First, always use either a black or a blue pen. Second, write in your best handwriting and use complete sentences. Third, make sure you have your parent's permission to apply for the job. This is important for several reasons. Your parents may be the ones providing the transportation for you and you'll have to work around their schedule. In addition, if the job is a night position, they may have some security concerns. Always discuss your work plans with them first, before you apply.

The Interview

Make no mistake, how you present yourself has a lot to do with getting the job. Having messy hair and wearing body jewelry are not always the best ways to show up for that all-important interview. Unless you are going to work in a tattoo parlor or as a backroom stockperson who never has direct contact with customers, leave the unconventional dress at home. Arrive at the interview alert and dressed in business casual clothes, or in more formal business clothes if you are applying for a job at a large company. Managers are looking for people who have a neat appearance, especially if the prospective employee will have direct contact with the public.

The interview may be a little nerve wracking, but you'll survive it. Be sure to answer all questions directly, while making eye contact with the interviewer. Don't be afraid to ask questions, after all, you're interviewing the company too!

Pre-Employment Tests

If you are asked to take additional tests, try to schedule them the same day since it speeds up the hiring process. It isn't unusual to have to take a typing test or a math test for some jobs, so be prepared for this.

Other tests that are not as common include a health screening test for drugs and a polygraph test. A polygraph test is easy, though some people are nervous taking them. It is a lie-detector test that is usually administered to people that will be handling money. Most people pass this short test with flying colors. The test administrator will then give the test results to the company that is considering hiring you.

The Job Offer

Assuming all has gone well with the interview and any subsequent tests, you will be offered the job. Make sure that you want the job before you say yes. This is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions that may not have been answered before. It is also the time to find out your exact start date and time, since you don't want to be late for your first day at work.

Conclusion

Jobs for teens can be found just about anywhere in your community including newspapers, the Internet, and in the businesses themselves. Friends and family can also be valuable resources for finding employment. Be sure to put your best foot forward when filling out job applications and dress appropriately for your interviews. Before you know it you could be bringing home your very first paycheck!