How to Help a Teen Find a Job

If you're like most parents, the last thing you want to see is your teen happily adjusted to life on your living room sofa. So if you and your teen are ready to kick-start the job-hunting process, get a solid game plan together to ensure a successful outcome. Some teens may be a bit reluctant to leave the nest for work due to comfort, attachment to family or shyness. After a few paychecks, though, you'll likely have your teen begging his boss for more hours.

Things You'll Need

  • Career test
  • Resume
  • Computer
  • Suit or Dress
  • Folder
  • Notebook
  • Pen

Instructions

    • 1

      Get your hands on a career aptitude test or personality and interests survey, and encourage your teen to take it. While these kinds of tests aren't foolproof, they can at least get your teen thinking about career options and long-term goals. Discuss the results with your child to open up a conversation about strengths and weaknesses.

    • 2

      Work with your teen to create or edit a resume. Many employers don't ask a high schooler for a resume, so imagine the effect seeing one can have on a hiring manager. Help your teen brainstorm meaningful real-world, volunteer and classroom experiences to include.

    • 3

      Use a word-editing program to help your teen organize his experiences on a one-page document. Select action verbs to start each description. For a nice touch, your teen could design his name and initials at the top and bottom of the page with a specialized font and a toned-down shade of a standard color. Don't forget to add awards and personal references.

    • 4

      Search online for job openings in your area. Use your contacts in the community to ask around about any current or upcoming opportunities. In addition to keeping an open ear and eye, encourage your teen to keep an open mind and be eager for any job experience, even in fast food or retail. At this age, it's all about sharpening people skills, learning to multitask and solving problems.

    • 5

      Encourage your teen to create a profile on a well-known job search site. After helping your teen apply online to several openings within a feasible distance of your home, tell her to put on a nice outfit and head out the door. She should visit at least a dozen local businesses known for teen-friendly jobs and ask to speak to a manager about how to apply for employment. Don't forget to remind her to leave her resume.

    • 6

      When the day comes, help your teen prepare for the interview. Encourage modest, professional dress and neutral colors. Print the resume and be sure it is placed inside a classy folder or portfolio to take to the interview, along with a pen and a small notebook. Be positive, preach confidence and wait for the news.

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