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Helping Your Teen Step into the Working World

Getting a job is a milestone most people are proud to achieve. One, it means that their years of study have paid off, and second, it’s the opportunity to finally make income.



For teenagers, it can be a little different. Landing that part-time job or planning their resume and portfolios is a clear step that they are quite not children anymore, but at the same time, not yet fully an adult. Still, it is definitely a transition in between and learning about the working world at a young age will surely help them later on as working professionals.


At the most basic level, children are introduced to the concept of work by teaching them to do their chores or homework first before playing outside or watching their favorite television show. It instils responsibility in them and makes them understand that getting out into the real world means working to achieve or get what they want.


Teenagers are able to better understand the working world, but guidance is key for them to fully comprehend the general ins and outs. Here are some ways to ease them into the world of work, whether it be looking for a small part time job or keeping it (which can be challenging considering their other life matters at this stage of their life).



Build a foundation with the basics


It’s important that they develop a positive attitude towards work, and this means teaching them to be responsible while also introducing them to future prospects which align with their interests over the years.


Work before play



As mentioned earlier, teaching your children to do their tasks first like homework or chores before other activities is a great way of instilling responsibility in them and is a great primer on the topic of work.


Quality over quantity


While finishing tasks on time is a good step, it isn’t enough. In the working world, customers will ask for an output within a set period of time while also expecting a certain level of quality to it. This means that while being quick is great, effort has to be put into fulfilling these tasks. Teaching teens that quality matters is also important.




Privileges can be given with a demonstration of responsibility



Rather than allowing your kids to be able to do things when they reach a certain age, such as letting them drive on their own when they reach 16 or adjusting their curfew to 11 PM when they’re 18, let them show that they are responsible enough to be able to have these privileges. In the working world, these privileges are earned when they have shown their ability and responsibility.


Instead, allow them to drive on their own when they’ve shown and proven that they are able to drive safely, or adjust their curfew when they’ve consistently proved that they come home on time.



Helping them develop a positive attitude towards work


Work can be tiring, and most times it just is. But helping your teen develop a positive attitude towards it can make a difference with how they perceive it.


Start early plans with their future career


This doesn’t have to be methodical or detailed. Rather, figure out their interests and help them find future careers where they can apply these interests and even grow their knowledge and skills. If your teen is into animals, they might be interested in becoming a veterinarian or if they’re into games and computers, they might find that a job as an IT could be where they can effectively put these skills to use.


Furthermore, also try to consider their other activities and even other smaller interests as it can really widen their choices and not box them into one singular thing. The world of working is pretty difficult, and most times some jobs you land won’t be to your liking. Teaching them to be open minded about other pursuits while helping them grow their passions is also important.


Start small


Sooner or later, they’ll have to find work that isn’t just paid by doing chores at home. Teens can begin to look for a job, but rather than taking on something new and biting off more than they can chew, it’s best to start small when helping them look for a job.

Looking for a weekend job is a great idea to ease them into the workplace. A Saturday job would be the best option as it only requires your teen to work once a week thus allowing them to be able to attend school while also having Sundays off as their rest day so they aren’t too stressed.


A small part time job will allow them to gain valuable life and work experience. At the same time they’ll be able to earn an income on the side.



Teaching them basics of the working world


Appearances are important



This means dressing up appropriately, especially if they’re going to apply for a job. Many people who are looking to hire employees start off of first impressions which is why it’s important. Your teen doesn’t necessarily have to wear a very formal attire, but rather they should look well-groomed and neatly dressed up.


Importance of Professionalism


Having rude or lazy co-workers isn’t new to the workplace, but your teen may not know how to handle these people. Teaching them to respond to things with professionalism is key to avoid getting themselves into arguments or trouble. This means that these difficult co-workers should still be treated with respect. Mean comments can be ignored but for things that go beyond the line can be reported to a higher up.


Similarly, lazy coworkers may influence your teen to follow in their footsteps, which isn’t good at all. Remind your teen to do the work expected of them rather than emulate those who don’t.


Strive to maintain a good attitude



Maintaining a good attitude doesn’t necessarily mean sucking up to the bosses or overdoing positivity to the point where it comes off insincere. Rather, they can strive to maintain a good attitude by coming to work on time, filling in for others when needed, and being reliable.


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