A summer job can be a great way for teens to earn extra spending money as well as developing skills for future careers. Here are a few tips on helping your teen become part of the summer job force.
Getting started
Orange County provides the perfect setting for seasonal employment, said Wendy Weeks, executive director of Youth Employment Service (yesworks.org).
“Because Orange County is a popular travel destination, beaches, parks, retail and the hotel industry all experience an increase in customers during the summer season,” Weeks said. “This opens up more job opportunities for teens and students looking to be employed during that time.”
Regardless of a teen’s career aspirations, working in these types of jobs provides invaluable experience for the future.
“Having the opportunity to work in a customer service-based job where teens are helping to create the customer’s experience is essential in developing skills for any future career,” Weeks said.
With some exceptions, 16 is generally the age requirement for most summer jobs. Teens younger than18 need a work permit, which can be obtained through most high schools once a job is secured.
Preparation makes perfect
They say there’s never a second chance to make a good first impression, and while most businesses handle their application process online, being prepared for a face-to-face meeting and interview with a future employer is important.
As the apparel/donation coordinator at the employment services nonprofit Women Helping Women (whw.org) as well as a Youth Employment Service ambassador, Jennifer Nava said that developing your “Tell me about yourself” statement is key for any young person looking to be hired.
“It’s essential to go in there scripted but natural,” Nava said.
Resumés are generally not a requirement for seasonal positions, but Nava said it doesn’t hurt for teens to develop one as a way to showcase skills and set them apart.
“Most teens don’t have much work experience, but there are a lot of applicable skills learned from participating in things like sports, clubs and volunteer work,” said Nava.
After developing a list of key skills and strengths beneficial to the position, Nava recommended spending time in front of a mirror practicing the delivery, as well as doing a “mock interview” in front of a professional or family member. Video recording the run-through can also be helpful in making corrections and refining presentation style.
Finally, Nava said, don’t forget to dress professionally, even if the job is of a more casual nature. When meeting with a potential employer, offer a strong handshake, make eye contact while speaking and follow up with a thank you note or email.
“Going in prepared makes you more confident and a stronger candidate, which goes a long way in conveying that you’re the best person for the job,” said Nava.
The big picture
The expected pay for summer employment is usually minimum wage (currently $10 per hour in California). For some teens, managing this new-found income can be both exciting and challenging. Weeks suggests parents use the opportunity to discuss financial topics with their teens such as saving, credit cards and budgeting.
But overall, how much should parents assist their teens in the job search process? Nava feels that at this age, the more responsibility left to the teens, the better.
“This is a time for teenagers to grow. Let them take the lead,” Nava said. “Take a step back, and let them practice and make their mistakes. It might be hard, but it’s their time now.”
