Finding a summer job, a common goal of many teens, will be more difficult this summer. Statistics show that 33 percent of teenagers held summer jobs last year, down from 45 percent in the year 2000. Even lower numbers are predicted for this year. Teens are now almost three times more likely to be unemployed than other U. S. workers. What can parents to do to help teens accomplish their goals given the current economic situation?
The first thing to do is to talk with your teen about what those goals are, because the tactics chosen are going to depend on the desired outcome. There can be many reasons for wanting a summer job, ranging from the urgent--needing money to help out the family during a hard time, to the not so urgent--wanting some spending money just for fun. Or the reason might have more to do with gaining experience, either to find a better job in the future, or to help with admissions to college.
If some income is the goal, it is critical to understand that it won't be easy this summer. There are fewer jobs and in many cases teens will be competing with more experienced adults for the same position. Personal contacts, a well-written resume, a willingness to work hard, and a positive attitude will help teens get work this summer. Many employers expect teens to be less prepared and less respectful than adults; breaking away from that stereotype will be an advantage.
Some common places for teens to find summer jobs are pools and parks, grocery stores, fast food, retail, agriculture, and theme parks. Everyone, including teens need to evaluate their skills and interests to find a job that is a good fit. Parents can help with this step by pointing out their child's strengths, and suggesting jobs that might be fun and interesting, as well as bring in some money. Do a search for "summer jobs for teens" to find websites that help teens and students find jobs.
Some of the most interesting summer positions can be found through museums, zoos, nature centers, and aquariums. Some are paying jobs, such as camp councilors or helping the many visitors who come to visit these sites during the summer. Others are volunteer positions that are designed for youth and provide work skills training along with work experience.
Another possibility for your teenager to earn money over the summer is to become an entrepreneur. Starting and running a small business can provide some money and some great experience. A business that provides a service won't take as much of a monetary investment as selling a product. It should be a service that is in demand as well as a good match for your teen's skills. Some possibilities include starting a tutoring service to give swimming, music, or art lessons. There are always the old standbys of babysitting, house sitting, and caring for plants and animals. Suggest ways to make the service stand out by being creative in promoting the service by combining talents. For example, offer childcare with immersion language lessons if your teen speaks more than one language, or offer pet sitting that includes grooming.
If money is not the most urgent goal, there are many opportunities for unpaid internships or volunteer work that can be more valuable in the long run than a paying summer job. An internship or volunteer position can provide an opportunity to "try out" a field. Intern positions, particularly those for prestigious companies or organizations are great to have on a resume. Volunteer work for non-profits is an important consideration in college admissions. An internship or volunteer position can provide the same valuable experience in developing a good work ethic and learning people skills as a paying position.
Take time to talk with your teenager about the employment situation. Help them decide if a paid position or an internship or volunteer position will best meet their needs for summer employment. Point out their unique talents and skills. Offer to help with writing a resume and practicing interview skills. Look in both the usual and unusual places, and hopefully help your teen find the perfect job this summer.
