First Job Opportunities for Teens

For a teenager, getting a first job can be very exciting, but finding one can be incredibly stressful. Many teens wonder what types of job opportunities are available to them. Others wonder if it is possible to find a job without a resume. Parents wonder if a first job will interfere with their child's schoolwork. Here are some of the different things that all teens and their parents should know about getting a job while in high school.

First Job Opportunities for Teenagers
One of the best ways for a high school student to find a first job is by applying at a place that is looking for summer help. Although some summer positions can be long-term first job opportunities, there are many which are only seasonal. Amusement parks, for example, usually close when school is back in session. The good thing about a seasonal position is that it counts as a first job, which means that you can use it on your resume later on. There also is a chance that you may be able to keep this first job by returning the following summer.

If you live near a major city, there may be seasonal opportunities with sightseeing tours. Another place to look is your local recreation department, which may need lifeguards or staff for summer programs. If you went to a summer camp as a child, you might be welcomed back as a counselor. Some of these jobs require background checks and CPR training, so be sure you know the requirements before you apply.

There are plenty of other first job opportunities for teens during the summer. Restaurants, hotels, malls, pet shops and day cares are all great places for teens to get a first job. Since most of these places don't close during the summer, they may provide a long-term first job opportunity that will last throughout the school year, and possibly into college.

If you are a teen looking for a first job, the key is to keep an eye out for them. Check out the local newspaper for job opportunities in your area. Some schools provide job boards for students, which you should check a few times each week. If there is a place that you would love to work, don't be afraid to put in an application, even if you don't see any jobs currently offered. If a friend has a job, ask if they're hiring. Some employers will put a lot of weight behind a strong recommendation from an existing employee.

Getting Your First Job Without a Resume
Many teens avoid applying for a first job because they do not have a resume. For many teen jobs, however, a resume isn't expected or required. Filling out an application and providing good references are the two best ways to get around not having a resume.

Although you do not need to have a resume, making one will never hurt your chance of getting a job. Having a resume will show a potential employer that you are organized and determined, qualities that employers like to see. While prior employment is necessary to create a resume, that doesn't always mean a traditional job. Babysitting, lawn mowing, paper routes and community volunteering can all be listed on a first resume to show that you're ready to handle the responsibility of a job.

When you make a resume for your first job, it is best to focus on your school accomplishments. Be sure to include your GPA if it is high. Honors or awards that you have received, ranging from winning spelling bees to the honor roll, should also be included on a resume for a first job. Keep in mind that the more information that you provide about yourself on your resume, the more likely it will be to help you land your first job.

Be sure to include references. Teachers and guidance counselors are great choices if you have not yet had a first job. You can use neighbors as references if you've done work for them. Don't use your parents, other family members or your friends as references unless they're already working at the same place you want to work. Employers consider family and friends biased, unless they already know them well. Some employers may have rules that prevent family members from working together.

Parent's Tips for Balancing School and a First Job
If your teen works at a first job during the school year, you may be concerned about the effect on grades. For some teens, balancing work and school can be difficult and grades may suffer. There are a number of different things that you as a parent can do to encourage your child to keep a balance between school and employment.

It is important to make sure that all of your teen's basic needs are met when he or she has a first job. Encourage your child to get at least eight hours of sleep each night. Also make sure that your teen eats a well-balanced diet. Although teenagers should remember to do these things on their own, a first job may cause your child to snack more or stay up later at night.

There is a possibility that your teen may get carried away with a first job. Teens who are making money may no longer see the value of school. It is important to remind your child that making money is good, but that academics come first. Your teenager's schedule should allow time for both homework and studying. If your child's schoolwork begins to suffer severely due to a first job, making them quit or cut back on hours may be the best option.