Teenagers have a tendency to like expensive things -- whether it’s a new laptop, gaming system, cell phone, ipod, or clothes or shoes, the price tags stack up fast. Why not encourage your teen to get a job and earn some money toward her desired expenditures?
Find Age-Appropriate Work
There are many websites that can assist in your teen’s job search. Snagajob is one, or teens can check craigslist, which has many local job listings as well. If your teen has just turned 13 or 14, state laws vary on what jobs they are able to apply for. Check your state’s employment laws to see what age minimums are.
If teens are not able to take an official job yet, paid activities like babysitting, lawnmowing, pet-sitting or other things can help then earn money until they are old enough to work in other places -- also they'll need a drivers license if you aren't going to be the one transporting them regularly!
Know Your Teen
Don’t suggest working at a hardware store if your teen is really into books! Try to help teens seek out a job that matches their interests. If she likes clothes, apply for a job at the mall! If he loves cars, maybe there’s part-time job available at a car dealership. If your teenager sleeps late every day, it may not be a good idea to have a job on a farm that starts at 5 a.m.
Resume and Interview
Help your teen find a job by helping him prepare. Putting together a resume -- even if it just lists school activities, babysitting or other experiences, is an important part of the job search process. Work with your teen to find sample resumes online. You can also help by doing a "mock interview" with your teen that will be similar to the one she’ll receive in the job search process.
Encourage Good Work Habits
How your teen will dress for work, her general appearance, being on time, bringing lunch if necessary and other details are skills that you can help your teen acquire in their first job experience. Taking teens shopping for work clothes, ensuring they have a good alarm (either through their cell phone or an ipod docking station) and ensuring they have all the hygiene supplies they need are ways you can help encourage good work habits for your teen.
Work together with your teen to find a job that will stimulate and interest them. The money management skills they learn will be life skills they will use forever, and holding a job will teach them personal responsibility and a sense of pride in their work product.
Read about Parent-Teen Contracts, Safe Driving Tips for Teens, or Text Messaging Your Teen to stay in touch!
