Getting Your First Job

Getting your first "real" job can be one of the most frightening adventures as a teenager. You've always knew you would do it someday, and probably doing some actual work is not what scares you. Going into a business for the first time looking for a job just might paralyze you into living at home forever. (Okay, I hope that's not the case, for your and your parents' sake.)

First of all, remember that we are all human. Yes, even that scary looking old lady behind the counter at the dry-cleaners down the street. They all had to get their first job too, just like you are doing now. They see young folks like you all the time and they know you are nervous. Be friendly and polite to everyone. Don't worry, most of them will return the favor. The ones that aren't friendly or polite... well just be thankful that you found out now so you know you probably don't want to work there. At least it won't be on the top of your list.

Where do you start looking? Well, what types of businesses in your area do you see people your age working at? That is where you will be applying. In most cities, this will include restaurants (fast food and casual dining), small mom and pop shops, and just about every store in the mall. Also consider local bowling alleys, movie theaters, car washes, ice-cream parlors, and grocery stores.

Whenever possible, start with the types of stores that involve products or services that you are interested in. If you love buying new clothes, start with the trendy places you like to shop at. You will likely enjoy going to work, be proud to tell your friends you work there, and you just might a get a discount on your own purchases. What a bonus!

You will need to visit a lot, and I do mean a LOT of businesses to get started. The fact is, not every company is hiring all the time. But they might be in a couple of weeks. Ask for an application, and you just might be able to get it turned in for a future job opening. You probably won't get your ideal job to start out with. I would suggest putting in applications in as many places as you physically can. Flood the area!

Remember that you are not the only person looking for a job right now. Even though you may see yourself as a great employee at a particular business, that doesn't mean you will get that job. Keep trying, and expect that it will take at least a couple of weeks to hear back from anyone.

Getting an interview does not mean you will get hired. Those of us "old" folks know this, but more than once I have overheard teenagers bragging about jobs they've "gotten" when really they only have an interview scheduled. Just like your mom told you, don't count your chickens before they hatch. Be thankful for any interviews you are able to participate in. The more you do, the more relaxed you will be for the next one. If you will be working with customers, the manager needs to see that you are comfortable talking with people. Practice, practice, practice!

On a practical note, after filling out a few applications you will notice that many of them ask the same or very similar questions. Take a few minutes and create your own document that lists all of those things that you know you are going to need. This isn't really a "resume" since you haven't worked yet. This is more like a reference sheet for your convenience. Write down you current and previous addresses, your social security number, your personal references, and any volunteer work you have done. Whatever you see on those applications, write it down to save you time on the next one. Go ahead and list your three best attributes, and your areas you need to work on as well. You don't want to be reinventing the wheel on each and every application you fill out. This will also get you thinking of answers to those questions that might be asked during an interview.

Good luck, and get out there! Your first paycheck (and your parents) will thank you.