With youth unemployment rates being high, finding that initial job to gain skills and experience can be challenging. However, with some preparation and effort, you can set yourself apart from other applicants your age and land the perfect starter job. Here are some tips to help teens find jobs:

Ask for Letters of Recommendation

Along with a CV, letters of recommendation can give you an edge over other applicants. A recommendation letter confirms your qualifications, work ethic, and character from trusted adults who know you well.

Good people to request recommendation letters from include:

• Teachers who can speak to your academic abilities and classroom performance
• Coaches or activity leaders who can highlight your participation, dedication, and teamwork
• Employers or mentors from volunteer work or internships who can endorse your skills and work ethic
• Community members like religious leaders who know your personality and values

When asking for a letter, provide the person with a recommendation letter template or list of suggestions to guide what they should include. Give them adequate time to write the letter before your application deadlines.

Build Your CV

Having a professional CV is essential even for teenage job seekers. Your CV provides a snapshot of your skills, experience, and qualifications for the job you’re applying to.

Include any prior work experience such as babysitting, lawn mowing, retail work, volunteering, or internships. List your education, highlighting any awards, or relevant coursework. Include skills such as computer programs, foreign languages, certifications, or other abilities.

Formatting your CV neatly and free from errors shows attention to detail. Have teachers, parents, or mentors proofread your CV before submitting.

Search for Opportunities

Now it’s time to start looking for open positions. Here are some ideas of where to find job listings for teens:

• Online job boards: Sites like Snagajob, Monster, and Indeed often have listings for entry-level and part-time jobs suitable for students.
• Company career sites: Directly visit the websites of companies you’re interested in and browse their job boards. This approach targets specific employers.
• Local newspapers: Many newspapers have classified sections with help wanted ads. Community papers have listings for local businesses hiring.
• Social media: Follow companies you’re interested in working for on social media, which sometimes post openings. Let friends and family know you’re job hunting as they may see leads.
• In-person: Apply in-person at locations you want to work at, even if they don’t have obvious listings. Speaking directly with a manager shows initiative.

Prepare For Interviews

Once you’ve identified openings to apply for, the next step will be interviews. Here are some tips to get ready:

• Practice frequently asked questions so you can articulate your skills and motivation smoothly. Have answers ready for questions like “Why do you want this job?” and “What makes you a good fit for this role?”
• Dress professionally to convey you take the opportunity seriously. Wear clean, pressed clothing in good condition.
• Bring copies of your CV and recommendation letter(s). This shows preparedness and gives interviewers all your relevant materials.
• Research the company so you understand their mission, values, and products/services. Show your interest by asking informed questions.
• Practice good body language. Make eye contact, sit upright, and have a confident handshake. Avoid nervous fidgeting or slouching.
• Follow up with a thank you note reiterating your interest in the position. This polite gesture can leave a final positive impression after the interview.

Explore Positions That Often Hire Teens

Certain jobs are more likely than others to hire teen workers, whether due to limited hours or duties appropriate for your age. Focusing your search on these roles increases your chances of getting hired:

• Retail: Stores like grocery stores, retail chains, coffee shops, fast food, and more. Roles may include cashier, sales associate, host, food service, etc.
• Childcare: Babysitting, nannying, tutoring, coaching youth sports and activities. Play to your skill caring for children.
• Restaurant: Host, dishwasher, busboy, and some service positions hire teens.
• Freelance work: Consider tutoring, web design, digital marketing, writing, gardening, etc. Promote any specialised skills.

The key is highlighting how your abilities can add value in roles traditionally open to teen workers. With some diligence, you can find a great starter job and begin building your career.

The job search process requires effort, but using these tips can help streamline finding opportunities. Polish your CV, obtain strong recommendation letters, seek openings both online and locally, ace interviews through preparation, and focus your search on teen-friendly jobs. With persistence and a professional approach, you can gain invaluable skills plus earn income through your first part-time job.