Your first job will make you money, but it’s also the start of building your work experiences and resume. Think of your first jobs as an exploration: try different roles and take note of what specifically you like and don’t like.
My first job was babysitting and I continued to babysit on and off for 8 years. I was trusted by parents to enforce the house rules, keep the kids safe and the house tidy. I genuinely enjoyed playing with the kids. The schedule fits great for after-school, nights and weekends. Other jobs I had were working at a nature center, Ikea’s Swede Shop, restaurant hostess, daycare worker, waitress and landscaper. The independence that comes with making your own money allowed me to buy my own clothes, pay for movie night out with friends and fund school books.
When looking for a first job, look for one that does not require formal skills and experience. Many employers will train you. The peak season for hiring is the summer and winter holidays. Use job sites, like Indeed.com or Glassdoor.com and search for job titles you’re interested in and terms like “no experience” and “no previous experience needed”.
Here are some great first jobs to consider:*
- Activities Assistant
- Amusement Ride Attendant
- Babysitter or Mother’s Helper
- Barista
- Baseball Umpire or Referee for Little League or Juniors
- Busser
- Camp Counselor or Camp Counselor in Training
- Car Wash Attendant
- Cashier
- Child Care Assistant
- Cleaner
- Counter Worker – Food Service
- Customer Service
- Dishwasher
- Dog Walker
- Farmhand
- Fast Food Worker
- Food Prep and Food Server
- Golf Caddy
- Greeter
- Grocery Bagger or Clerk
- Household Chores
- Ice Cream Shop
- Kennel Assistant
- Landscaper
- Lawn Mower
- Lifeguard
- Music Reviews
- Music Teacher for Young Children
- Nursery Worker
- Packing and Moving
- Paper Delivery Person
- Pet Sitter
- Pizza Parlor
- Proofreader
- Receptionist
- Restaurant Hostess/Host
- Retail Store Sales Clerk
- Sports Coach
- Stock Clerk
- Swim Instructor
- Team Member
- Ticket Taker
- Tutor (in-person or online)
- Waiter/Waitress
As you try new jobs, continually identify your special gifts and talents. Do you have fun doing certain tasks? Does it seem easier for you than others? Are you complemented on certain skills? This knowledge will help guide your career, allowing you to market your abilities and find the best job fit in the future. However, don’t avoid things that may not come easily as that challenges you and grows your skills. Most importantly, enjoy the experience of meeting new people, gaining experience and putting some cash in your pocket.
*Resource: https://www.thebalancecareers.com/list-of-good-first-job-ideas-for-teens-2062235
Agile Dragonfly 