How to get a job as a teenager

You get a job as a teenager by putting together a resume, preparing for the job hunt, and practicing your interview skills. As a teenager, looking for your first job can seem like a difficult task, especially if you haven't had any experience in the workplace, have never been through an interview, and don't know where to start with your resume.

As a teenager, you probably won't need a robust resume; however, it would be useful to have a document ready to promote your skills and background. It is good to have electronic and print copies available as you network with contacts or make in-person prospecting visits with employers.

For your resume, consider including:

• Any experiences that show discipline, commitment, and willingness to work hard. Employers of teens will be looking for indications that you are mature for your age and can follow through/complete tasks.

• Any activities that you have pursued inside and outside of school. This can include sports, school clubs, dance or music lessons, etc.

• Any leadership positions that you have held. This can include school organizations or volunteer programs in the community. This is particularly attractive to employers as it shows initiative and character.

• Jobs that you have done on a freelance basis like babysitting, yard work or snow removal, or a paper route

• Long-term school projects, advanced courses, or academic competitions that you have participated in. Bonus points if you spearheaded the project or won the competition

Don't worry too much if you don't have much to include in your resume. Employers understand that you are young and looking to gain experience. It is important to make sure that your document is grammatically correct, error-free, and cleanly presented.

After your resume is polished and ready to go, it is time to start the job hunt. Networking is always a good way to get started in the workplace. That means using the people that you know to help you find a job. Here are some good ways to start networking:

• Reach out to any of your friends who are employed and ask if their job is hiring. Find out what their thoughts are on the work environment, manager, and other staff members. If they would recommend the job, ask if you can visit their workplace and get an introduction to their supervisor.

• Ask your parents if they have contacts at local employers who might be hiring or even at their workplace.

• Contact neighbors, teachers or coaches, and counselors to ask for suggestions about people or places who may be hiring and how to approach them

After making contact with your network, don't be shy about asking for introductions to prospective employers. Employers are more comfortable hiring young people whom they get to meet in person and who have the endorsement of a person they trust.

You will not get an interview at every place you apply to, so it is important that you prepare to be turned down. If you do get turned down, respond by saying something like, "If you need someone in the future, please keep me in mind." This will show maturity and that you are serious about getting a job.

Because your networking path will likely result in meeting employers and applying for positions in person, you may be asked to interview on the spot. Because you don't know when you will be interviewing, it is important to practice in advance. The best strategy is to have a parent, sibling, or friend play the role of the interviewer so you can practice.

Some common interview questions for teenagers are:

• Why are you looking for a job? - answer this question by focusing on your interest in the field or your desire to develop a certain skill set. Example: "I'm hoping to gain restaurant experience because I am looking to go to culinary school."

• Why are you interested in working for this company? - Employers are looking to gauge your interest in the field and to see if you have done your research. Look at what the company does and what is important to them. Focus your answer on your research and how you can apply your skills to the company.

  Example: "Your company is known internationally for its healthcare products and its commitment to the community. I would love the opportunity to gain experience in the healthcare marketing industry and to learn how I can better the community along with you."

• How has school prepared you for working at our company? - Here is your time to talk about the skills you have gained and why you are the ideal candidate. Speak about extracurricular activities as well as academics.

  Example: My best subject in school is English, and it has sparked my interest in journalism. I have used Photoshop, InDesign, and Publisher during my work as the editor-and-chief of the school newspaper, and I believe that I have the skills that you are looking for in a journalism assistant".

Make sure that you are well groomed and dressed appropriately when you arrive. You should avoid wearing jeans or shorts, flip flops or sneakers, or hats. Your clothes should be neat and tidy, your hair should be combed, and your makeup should be minimal. Be sure to put your phone on silent so that it is not distracting.

Be sure to project confidence. This means keeping your head up and maintaining eye contact. Be sure to shake the hand of the interviewer and let them know you appreciate them taking the time to meet with you. It is also important to follow up after the interview. Send an email or make a phone call to express your gratitude for the interview.