Teens4Hire.org: Best Things for Teens to Do if You Cannot Land a Job
Start Your Own Business
You know the story. There are more teens looking for jobs than job openings.
Here’s some general information that may help you get started.
LEGALITIES
In general, teens under 18 cannot form legal business entities and your parent
or legal guardian will have to do so on your behalf. That’s because parents
and guardians are generally responsible for the actions and obligations of
their minor teens. But, with your parent or guardian’s help this experience will
also look great on future job and college applications. And will give you a
chance to learn about business first-hand.
HOW TO GET STARTED
- Consider your personal interests and abilities that might be turned into a
business.
- Determine if there is a need for your business in your local area. Make a
sample of your product or do a test run of your service to see how
potential customers respond.
- Find out if there is enough demand in the market to support your business.
- Start small and grow gradually.
- Understand that starting a business always has a degree of risk, but the
reward is satisfying customers and more money in your pocket.
IDEAS FOR BUSINESSES THAT TEENS CAN START
- House-sitting/cleaning
- Pet-sitting, walking, washing
- Lawn care
- Personal assistant
- Tutoring
- Car wash/detailing
- Assembling products
- Arts and crafts making and selling
- Garage sale coordinator
- Party/Event planner
- Plant maintenance
- Children’s parties
- Garage & estate sales
- Jewelry maker
- Child/elder care
- Answering service
- Photo/videographer
- Bookkeeper
- Errand/shopping service
- Recycler
If you are 18 or older, check out Direct Selling Opportunities. You can often
start a business with a reputable company and little or no money up front.
Many people start part-time which is perfect for older teens who need to work
around their school schedules during the year and can work full-time during
the summer, breaks and holidays.
Stay in School
Make sure you have mastered the basics of reading, writing and math. Take
classes that will give you a skill that is needed by companies. Classes in
computer science, word processing and office applications are helpful.
Volunteer
You can do something worthwhile and earn work experience. This type of
work doesn’t get you a paycheck, but can help you develop skills, meet new
people, and keep you busy. In addition, work experience of this kind
impresses hiring managers, as well as, college admission officers.
The Student Conservation Association has some great fun opportunities.
Consider other non-profits. Check out Idealist.org
If you are a teen 14 or older and not a registered member of Teens4Hire.org, please join now. Membership is free and allows you to search opportunities, apply
online, be considered for openings, and get the latest news, info and tips on how to
land a job, earn money, and/or get work experience.
|
|
|