“89% of all teens say they plan to work this summer,” according to Junior Achievement, an organization that helps teens get ready to enter the workforce.
“As unemployed adults scramble for jobs that typically go to young people, this will be the toughest summer in 25 years for teens to find work,” says Dr. Gad Levanon, senior economist at the Conference Board, which tracks employment trends. (Family Circle magazine, June ‘09)
So, how can you help your teen(s) land a summer job?
- Help your teen understand that employers want to know that they can count on the people they hire. When a teen goes into an interview demanding every Thursday off for cheerleading practice or swim team, they lower their chances for employment.
- Encourage your son or daughter to go into the interview with a positive attitude about the job and the place of employment. Their goal is to be hired not to revamp the workplace.
- In today’s economy, it is good to even be considered for employment. Your teen should be aware of that and express gratefulness for the opportunity to interview. A hand written thank you note is a positive and uncommon practice in today’s world and is sure to be appreciated. Don’t substitute a quick email thank you.
- Remind your teen that the future employer might do a Google search or check out his or her face book account. Whatever is found, needs to be appropriate.
- Recommend that your son or daughter leave their cell phone in the car rather than take the risk that it might ring during the interview. The focus must be on the interview rather than any incoming calls or text messages.
- Be certain that your teen is dressed properly. Shorts and sneakers are probably not fitting attire for an interview.
- Remind your teen that this is an interview for a summer job and not for life- long employment. The job does not have to be ideal. It is a short-term opportunity to earn money and add something to his or her experience and resume.
I would love to hear from you on this subject. Please email me at Kendra@KendraSmiley.com
Helping You MAKE THE NEXT RIGHT CHOICE
www.KendraSmiley.com
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