How To Encourage Your Teenager To Get A Job

We know that teenagers are expensive and as they need money for trips, clothes and meeting pals they should have their own job to sustain themselves.

Here are a few tips on getting your teenager to get a job:

Let them do the work – The first thing you should know is that while you want to help your child that you should stop short of doing everything for them. Let your teenager be proactive and get them working on their CV, applications and cover letters. By all means, offer support, advice and encouragement but don’t take over every part of the job hunting. They need to learn how to do this themselves. Your teenager will need to learn how to do things themselves and you won’t be there for them when they are trying to get through a job interview. Let them learn and let them makes mistakes too.

Proof the documents – This is vital as your teen's CV and cover letter need to be perfectly written. This is an opportunity for your teenager to shine and show their skills. Tell employers about their abilities, hobbies and achievements to date. Include their interests and why they would like a job in their business – change it for each application to personalise it. Before they send anything, have a read over it yourself to check for mistakes.

Look at the local area – The local area is the best place for your teenager to work as they won’t have to travel far. Although you may be available to drive them to work, if this is a long-term job it may cause hassle if they need a lift regularly. Consider the plan of action and how the route can be made to work. Then, get your teenager to visit local shops and ask about work instead of relying on online job adverts. Sometimes, local businesses are happy to give youths an opportunity.

Find a job they’ll enjoy – Yes, I know this is a part time role for your child, but the reality is, if they hate the job, they won’t stick at it. There is no point forcing your teenager into a job they will hate but if they like it (even a little) that is ok. Obviously, your child may not love their job, but they do need to be enthusiastic about it and not feel like crying every time they head to work.

Help them prepare – Help your teenager by preparing them for the interview, the questions and how they will show their work ethic. If they secure employment you will need to advise your teenager on how to work hard, be professional and efficient. Remind your teenager of good timekeeping and ensure they turn up in their expected uniform.

Take note of your teenager’s schedule – Does your teen have the time needed to do their job and manage their activities? Before you send them into a shop to apply for a Saturday job, consider their availability. Your teenager may be suited to an evening job or a Sunday job for example. It is important to know this as once your teenager is working, they may find it hard to get that day off, if needed. Don’t forget time to study too and your teenager shouldn’t get burnt out by working and going to school.

Be proud – If your child has earned themselves a position then you should be proud. Let them prove how far they have come and encourage them to be great.