Great First Jobs

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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:*

  1. Activities Assistant
  2. Amusement Ride Attendant
  3. Babysitter or Mother’s Helper
  4. Barista
  5. Baseball Umpire or Referee for Little League or Juniors
  6. Busser
  7. Camp Counselor or Camp Counselor in Training
  8. Car Wash Attendant
  9. Cashier
  10. Child Care Assistant
  11. Cleaner
  12. Counter Worker – Food Service
  13. Customer Service
  14. Dishwasher
  15. Dog Walker
  16. Farmhand
  17. Fast Food Worker
  18. Food Prep and Food Server
  19. Golf Caddy
  20. Greeter
  21. Grocery Bagger or Clerk
  22. Household Chores
  23. Ice Cream Shop
  24. Kennel Assistant
  25. Landscaper
  26. Lawn Mower
  27. Lifeguard
  28. Music Reviews
  29. Music Teacher for Young Children
  30. Nursery Worker
  31. Packing and Moving
  32. Paper Delivery Person
  33. Pet Sitter
  34. Pizza Parlor
  35. Proofreader
  36. Receptionist
  37. Restaurant Hostess/Host
  38. Retail Store Sales Clerk
  39. Sports Coach
  40. Stock Clerk
  41. Swim Instructor
  42. Team Member
  43. Ticket Taker
  44. Tutor (in-person or online)
  45. 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

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