Finding a job this summer

By Tim Jahn, M.ED

With people of all ages looking for employment, high school teens may discover that finding a job this summer is, itself, a full-time job. While work opportunities may be scarce, there are always some summer jobs that are ideally suited for teenagers and young adults: park and recreation workers, camp counselors, lifeguards, and attendants at movie theaters and amusement centers. These kinds of jobs require lots of energy and enthusiasm, an ability to relate to children and families, and, in the case of camp counselors, a willingness to work for less money.

A summer job has many benefits for teens. There’s the money, of course, and with it comes money management or mismanagement. When teens learn to manage their money wisely, they can wind up with both savings and spending money. A summer job can also provide great work experience and future references. Most importantly, teens learn workplace skills and ethics, like following directions, practicing safety, relating to customers, and getting along with co-workers. For some families, it may be necessary for teens to contribute to their own expenses, such as cell phone charges, gas, and college savings.

Parents play an important role in helping a teen have a positive work experience. Most teens want to earn money, and most parents of teens want them to use their time constructively. But with employment comes responsibilities: scheduling, transportation, managing money, and staying safe in the workplace. In addition to discussing expectations for earning, spending and saving money, parents and teens should also talk about workplace safety and responsibility. Sometimes, jobs can lead to negative experiences or uncomfortable interactions with adults, so it is important for parents to monitor how the job is affecting their child.

Supporting your teen’s job search

Parents can mentor their teen as they look for employment. Here are some job search tips you can share with your teenager:

• Make sure working papers and other key documentation such as social security information are in order.
• Prepare a one page resume that highlights skills, interests and experiences, especially extracurricular activities and community service.
• Network — ask teachers and other trusted adults for job ideas and leads.
• For many jobs, you must apply online. Follow up all applications in person or with a phone call.
• Dress appropriately for interviews and show up a few minutes early. Answer questions directly and respectfully. Be sure to thank the interviewer for his or her time.
• Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get an interview or job offer. In fact, stay persistent without being a pest. Always leave the door open for future employment by saying, “I know there’s nothing available right now, but I am still very interested in working for you if something comes up in the future.”

Consider “unpaid” employment

If paid employment is hard to find, there may be unpaid internships or volunteer opportunities available. Though there’s no salary, these experiences build a resume, can support future goals, and may even lead to paid employment.

Tim Jahn is a Human Ecology Specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County’s Family Health and Wellness Program and leads workshops for parents of pre-teens and teens. He can be reached at 631-727-7850 ext. 331 or at tcj2@cornell.edu.