Work It
Serve Up Some Experience
Working in the food industry is an ideal starting point for today's teens. "This is a job that everyone should have at some point, just so we can all appreciate the speed and stress and teamwork involved," Cerasuolo said. Working in customer service in a restaurant will certainly reinforce young people's communication skills, while also strengthening their ability to multi-task and think on their feet, she added.
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Lead the Group
Working as a tour guide is a great way for teens to polish their speaking and presentation skills, things that will help during those college interviews. There are many options for this position, including with a local museum, a tour company or the local visitors center. "Tour guides have to know their stuff and think fast, in addition to actually teaching people while being slightly entertaining," Cerasuolo said.
Be a Mentor
On the surface, it may seem all fun and games, but working with younger children teaches teenagers a great deal about responsibility. Great places to do this include working as a camp counselor, a school tutor or at a local community center. "You learn patience, creativity, problem-solving, mediation and conflict resolution," Cerasuolo said. She mentioned that another benefit to a job like this is that it can help teens decide if they might want to become a teacher.
Watch the Kids
Babysitting is a tried and true occupation for teens everywhere. Watching children after school teaches teens responsibility, punctuality, conflict management, creativity, patience and accountability, Cerasuolo said. Plus, finding a job as a babysitter couldn’t be easier. Check with your neighbors, family friends and fellow church members. Parents are always looking for trustworthy and responsible babysitters.
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Capture an Experience
Today's teens are always snapping photos or taking video with their cellphones. For those who really have a passion for it, working as a photographer's assistant could be the perfect job. "As an intern, you'll likely be changing sets, setting up for photo shoots, holding lights, [dealing with] costuming and makeup and advertising," Cerasuolo said. She noted that in many cases, students really enjoy the variety and pace of this job.
Hit the Books
Landing a job at a bookstore is great for any teen, but it's a particularly good opportunity for those who love to read. "Working in a bookstore involves customer service, inventory, staff meetings, ordering supplies and books, decorating and window displays, and learning to run a cash register," Cerasuolo said. She pointed out that an additional perk to a bookstore job is getting to hear readings and meet authors at book signings.
