Their First Job

by ‘Hood Staff

What You Should Know

Kids love getting an allowance and having money to buy things on their own. But eventually, those kids grow up and want or need to purchase items that an allowance won’t cover. Enter: their first job.

Here are a few things to consider when your teen is on the job hunt. 1. Are they ready

There are many things that go into being “ready” to be employed, like maturity, transportation, and school activities and grades. They will most likely run into an unhappy customer at some point; do they know how to react?

2. Seasonal or year-round work

Many companies need extra hands over the summer. And if your teen is involved with activities during the school year, a summer job might be perfect. If food service or attraction attendant isn’t up their alley, think about other places like construction or yard maintenance that have an increased need for help, not to mention young and able bodies.

3. Check out the company culture

While this is an important topic for adults, having your teen enter a company with a poor culture can lead to learning bad habits and set them up for a lifetime of dreading work. Have your teen talk to their friends about businesses or you can get chatty with the cashier at your grocery store to see if she enjoys working there.

4. Don’t do it for them

It’s their job to find a job. You can assist them with where to search, setting up a resume, and providing tips for an interview, but they need to put in the work themselves. You’re not going to be with them on their first day. And if they need to wear a uniform on that first day, be sure that you discuss who is washing that uniform so they’re never yelling at you that their clothes aren’t clean.

5. Financial responsibility

Before that first paycheck hits their account, you will want to have a conversation with them about money management. It’s a big conversation: taxes (no, they won’t get paid that entire $12), savings goals (car, college, new clothes), retirement (yes, a little early but putting aside 5% each month can set them up for a big win once they start a “real” job), and, of course, fun money.

A first job can be an exciting step into freedom for teens, and with a little guidance from parents, it can also be a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out our website at thehoodmagazine.com to see a great list of teen jobs. l