Tips for Helping Your Teen Get a Summer Job

Tips for Helping Your Teen Get a Summer Job

Landing that first summer job is a milestone in every teen’s life, that moment when they truly begin making the transition from childhood to adult life, from a passive observer to an active participant in the nation’s economy. There are life lessons to be gleaned from those first days on the job, as well as the opportunity to revel in the experience of actually having earned the money in your pocket.

As the federal government’s monthly hiring figures confirm, there will be plenty of jobs out there this summer for ambitious teens. Parents can help by providing the guidance teens need to make an educated start of their working life. Here are a few ideas to keep in mind.

Manage Expectations: One way to help your teenager in his or her job search is to remind them that just because they apply for a job doesn’t mean they will get it. They need to work hard and send out multiple applications just like adult job seekers do.

Prep Time: While your teenager will be in the interview without you, you can still help them prepare. Encourage your teen to ask lots of questions during the process and remind them they shouldn’t be afraid to ask about hours, pay and time off.

Good Vibes: Sometimes, a first job doesn’t live up to its expectation, so remind your teen that a good attitude can help the day go by faster. Let them know that showing up on time every day, being reliable and filling in for others when needed also shows the boss that your teen has what it takes to succeed.

Get Around Town: If your teenager doesn’t drive yet, transportation to and from work could fall on you. Consider if your teen could walk or ride their bike to work or perhaps catch a ride with a friend. If you need to drive them to and from work, make sure your teen’s work hours don’t overlap with your own.

Dress for Success: Depending on the job, your teen may need to buy work clothes. Perhaps not, if the local grocery store or fast-food restaurant provides uniforms. But what if your teenager is working in an office? Find out as early as possible if your teen needs special clothes for the job.

Money Matters: It’s vital to discuss finances in advance and teach your teen basic budgeting skills. A lot of teens are surprised to discover how much of their paycheck goes to taxes, so warn them in advance that a percentage of the money goes straight to the government. This is also a good time to discuss the importance of saving money and making wise buying decisions.

Always Professional: An entry-level position means your teen may have to deal with lots of supervisors and perhaps unpleasant co-workers. Talk to your teen about how to deal with difficult people up front before it becomes a real issue.

Put Down the Phone: Teens should be reminded to turn off their phone during an interview and make sure they know it isn’t appropriate to send text messages or be distracted by their phone while on the job. Also, make it clear that it’s not OK to complain about work on social media.
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At Harmony Communities, we feel strongly that each resident has a sense of home. That they come home from work and feel pride in their environment and in their place in the greater community. That families are comfortable raising children in our neighborhoods, and that couples and singles know that they belong to something bigger than their four walls. In other words, we seek to create harmony within each community, making our communities not just passable, but peaceful, safe, functional, and beautiful.