Teens Struggle to Find Work

Job Searches Get Intense for Teens Competing with More Job Seekers

For youth looking for a job, finding one in these tough economic times isn’t easy. Retailers and restaurants aren’t hiring as much and a rising unemployment rate means stiff competition from laid-off workers with more experience. With parents pinching pennies and college costs rising, more teens are expected to search for part-time and summer jobs this year.

“They may not have the allowance they are used to. They’re going to be looking for ways to replace what was taken from them,” said Karen S. Hinds, author of “A teenager’s Guide to the Workplace.” “For some students, it might well be replacing an income in the family.”

That would reverse a decade’s long downward trend in teen employment since the 1980s. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2008, 32.6 percent of teens ages 16-19 were employed, a historic low, down from 45.2 percent in 2000.

Fewer teens have part-time jobs today because they stay in school longer, spend more time studying and have less free time, according to a report from market research firm Mintel. Baby boomer parents have told children their job is getting into college, so many teens haven’t felt compelled to work, said Susan Beacham, founder and CEO of Money Savvy Generation.

“We have given our children the No. 1 job of school because we have always been able to take care of college,” she said. She thinks kids will be better off with work experience, but in today’s economy, there’s no guarantee they’ll find a job if they want it.

So, what are some good job-hunting tips for teens in today’s economy?

• Cast a wide net. Let people know that you are looking for a job and that you are willing to take anything.
• Do your research. Know the company, the audience and how you can contribute to the organization before applying.
• Complete the entire application. Double-check that you haven’t left things blank. If you don’t have work experience, put down extracurricular activities.
• Have a resume. If you lack traditional experience, list school activities, volunteer work and meaningful class assignments.
• Be professional. Make sure your email address is appropriate, and that your voicemail is professional.
• Practice interviewing. Be sure to rehearse your answer to “Why should we hire you?”
• Be positive. Go into the interview with a great attitude.
• Follow up with a thank-you note.
• Be prepared to face rejection.
• If you don’t find something consider starting your own business.
• Don’t stop looking.

For more information on job hunting tips please visit the Centralina Workforce Development Board’s website at www.centralinaworks.com.