Creating a High Performing Teenage Employee

I am sure there are totally contentious teenagers out there, I have even known a couple. But in my experience running a small business, most are just like my son. Don't get my wrong, I totally love my son and value his effort most of the time. But working with him and other teens several years now, there are unmistakable trends. And through the grueling business of teaching "work ethic" (by our definition), my husband and I have to constantly remind one another of the basics. And most of the time...these work!

Be Super Clear on Expectations: Repeat

Just like the directions on a shampoo bottle; rinse and repeat: This is exactly what you must do with teenagers and directions. For whatever reason, they seem to forget things day to day. I am sure you have heard from a teenager, "I know, I know..." and the elder replies, "If you know, then why isn't it done!?" This is not a newsflash, but theme. So, get creative with the ways to repeat the same message.

Three ways that work are to say it, post it and check it. Obviously, when you are training a teenager, you should state the correct way to do something. But, with many words, they are easily forgotten. Posting the most important things works. It is why there is a sign in almost every public bathroom that says, "Employees must wash hands before returning to work." Every time I see that sign, I think, "Are you serious?" But, for those that weren't taught at the age of two, those who are thinking of other things and teenagers...the visual helps. Finally, checking to ensure they are doing things correctly in your absence is required for success of a young worker.

Once expectations are set and very clear, it is then (and only then) you can hold them accountable. And teenagers should be held accountable, especially when you are paying them, trusting them with your investments and preparing them for life! When we check on the young workforce we can teach them when and if there is an error, thus repeating what we have told them before.

Don't Let Anything Slip

Have you ever heard the phrase "inspect what you expect?" I heard it often in Corporate America, but honestly, it is so true with teenagers especially. They are still pressing boundaries and if they think they can get away with it, they likely will try. This includes getting away with a job half finished, or partially complete. If we truly want performance from our teens we need to check their work. And the "surprise check" keeps them on their toes!

But you don't have to surprise kids, you just have to let them know you care enough to check. If they believe you will check on them, they are far less likely to let things go that they know they should be doing. In addition, if they do a job well and no one checks it, what is the point? Not all kids are born with the desire for perfection, or even a good college try. So, by letting them know you will check their work, they will likely do it. And, if you are proud of them when a job is well done, they will likely try harder. In this instance, checking is not a teaching time, it is a time of praise.

Praise

I have seen studies that show people are most motivated by appreciation. I remember thinking..."No, people are motivated by money." Of course, that was before I was in a role and totally unappreciated and unsupported. Then, it was strange how all the money couldn't have kept me there. I began to hate work. It was then I believed that praise matters.

Teenagers are still forming their opinions about work. It can be something they loathe, or something they look forward to...and not always for the money. In fact, the things we look forward to the most have nothing to do with money. Falling in love, a best friend, a family, a holiday where everyone has a blast...these are the things that inspire us most. A teenager is no different. They are little adults in the making. So, as adults, let's show them how to do it right and set the bar high for their life of work.

Make it rewarding through praise. Use your praise sparingly and only when appropriate. Save the high-energy adjectives for when it really matters most. There is a huge difference between, "Decent job closing tonight. Thanks for covering the basics. You're a good kid and I am glad to have you." And "Wow! I have never seen this place sparkle like this! Now, that is what I am talking about! It looks great! Honestly, I do not know what I would do without you. With work like this...if you ever need a referral, just let me know!"

The simple act of recognizing effort is the crux of a good working relationship. Teenagers may miss a lot, but they generally do not miss flaws in adults. So, be careful to be the adult you want them to be and know every "boss" makes a difference, good or bad. Recognize them for what they do. Sometimes, it is more than praise.

Reward

C'mon, who doesn't love a reward? We all do! Even dogs love treats. We are so much more than that and so are our teenagers. When it comes time to reward them, remember that it doesn't always have to be money or praise. Silly things will do: things to hang from your review mirror, gum, a funny bumper sticker, free things you get around work, small gift cards, gas cards...whatever! Just be sure to do something periodically to stand out from all those other places they could be working!

All of these tactics (setting expectations, inspecting, praising and rewarding) are great but probably none as great as remembering the person, despite the performance. Teenagers, regardless of how confident they seem, desire to be treated like adults, not dumb kids. Be sure to always focus on the action, which is separate from the person. If we can master these things, with any luck, we will have a productive, hard-working, happy teen, and we will know we have done well. As for business, we may also gain a strong, faithful employee. But most rewarding of all, we will have helped mold a young adult worthy of referral.