Jobs for Teens

Teens have a definite disadvantage when looking for jobs. Younger teens are capable of performing the same jobs as older teens, but legally they can't work at regular moneymaking jobs. Teens who can legally work regular jobs must work around school, sports, and other extracurricular activities. Besides time and age constraints, the jobs available to teens usually pay minimum wage to start, and with ever-increasing gas prices, insurance costs, and other miscellaneous expenses, even for teens, the current minimum wage just doesn't cut it.

There are jobs teens can do to earn money on weekends and after school, and keep in mind, just because you're a teen doesn't mean you should have to settle for less. The following information provides ideas for teens looking for jobs. These job ideas are great ways for teens of all ages to make the money they want and deserve.

Teens looking for ways to earn money, should seriously consider the following job ideas. These jobs generally pay more than average minimum wage jobs, and teens can set their own hours to work around school and other activities.

Lawn Care

Lawn care is booming business. Many people don't have time to mow and trim their lawns, and some aren't physically able. Consider starting a lawn care service. Design business cards and ads, and post them in public places in your vicinity. Also, develop a list of references, and as your business grows you'll be able to add to the list.

If you don't have a vehicle in which to haul lawn care equipment, who says you have to use your own? Use the customer's mower, weed trimmer, and gas. You'll save yourself a lot of work by not having to haul heavy equipment, you won't have to provide the gas, and you won't have to spend money on equipment maintenance. It's a win-win situation!

Gardening & Landscaping

Just as there are people who don't have the time or ability to take care of their lawn, there are people who prefer to hire others to tend to their gardens and landscaping. If you're a teen who enjoys outdoor work, this might be the job for you.

Pick up landscaping books at the library, and research gardening and landscaping information online. More often than not people simply want weeds pulled and jobs preformed such as hoeing or shrub trimming. This is a great job where teens can set their own hours while earning the pay they deserve.

Pet-Sitting

Many people would prefer to have someone tend to their pets at home rather than place them in a kennel while they're on vacation or out of town on business. If you're a teen who loves animals, a pet-sitting job is a great way to earn the money you need while providing care for pets such as dogs, cats, fish, birds, rodents, and reptiles. As long as people have pets, they'll need others to occasionally help provide their care.

Create business cards and ads, and place them in public places such as public libraries, vet's offices, pet shops, and any other place that offers free advertising. Share business cards with friends, family, and carry a few to give away. Before long, you'll find the pet sitting jobs you're seeking, and before long, your services will be recommended to others with pets. Word of mouth means a lot, especially when you're a teen trying to establish a business of your own.

Cleaning

Cleaning isn't a pleasant task, but general cleaning really isn't bad, especially when you're a teen and you're interested in earning more than minimum wage. Consider taking on cleaning jobs for the elderly, those who are physically impaired, or those who simply don't have the time or desire to clean. Make a list of cleaning jobs you're willing to perform, and set your prices accordingly.

Spread the word regarding your new endeavor, and if you've cleaned for family or friends, develop a list of references. Post free ads wherever you can, and wait for the calls to come in. Before long you'll have regular clients, and you'll be earning the money you want and deserve.

Tutoring

Are you proficient in a particular computer program, or do you excel in a certain school subject? Why not tutor those who could use a little extra help? Tutoring is a fantastic way for teens to earn extra money. Parents are often willing to pay knowledgeable teens to tutor their students in specific school subjects. Tutoring will enable you to help others while you brush up on your favorite school subjects, and you'll earn the money you need in the process.