ALT-4 What Employers are looking for in Teen Workers
In today's economy there are frequently more applicants than job openings. Teens that wish to get a job should be aware of the criteria that employers are looking for in teen workers.
Dependability
Teens should be dependable workers who will follow through with what the employer wishes for them to accomplish.
Dress/Grooming
Appropriate attire will be required for any job position. Teen workers should be aware of any dress codes that the employer has and adhere to them. A daily shower, deodorant and an appropriate hair style are a must for any teen wishing to be gainfully employed.
No tattoos/piercings
If a teen worker will be seeing the public as in customer service positions they should be wary of where they put any tattoos and piercings. Many employers prefer no tattoos seen at all. Keeping tattoos off of the forearms, face, neck and other exposed areas will help them to be gainfully employed. Piercings should not be seen anywhere other than the teens ears and then there shouldn't be more than one or two per ear.
Attendance/Punctuality
Being punctual is important for any teen worker. Teens must show up on time and be where they're supposed to be at all times. Showing up for your shift is very important. No one wants to do the job of two and If a teen isn't being reliable chances are they will be fired for their lack of reliability.
Respectful attitude
Teen workers should have a respectful attitude to their employers and co workers. Foul language and bad attitudes will not be tolerated by employers. A smile will also go far in helping a teen worker to be hired.
Enthusiasm
Employers are looking for enthusiastic teen workers who will go above and beyond the call of duty.
Teachable
Teen workers should be willing to learn new skills and acquire even more skills as needed. A teachable teen is an employable teen.
List of Skills acquired
Teens should have a resume with a list of their skills from volunteer work and other positions they may have held. This can also include classes at school that would help them to acquire skills that would be job related such as computer skills, technical skills and construction skills.
Good references
A good reference has three qualities: 1. How well the person knows you. 2. How good are the things the person will say about you. 3. How credible are the references? i.e. Doctor, teacher, Pastor etc. vs friends that are of the same age.
Clean Record
A teen worker who wishes to be gainfully employed will want to keep his or her record clean and clear. No truancies, no speeding or traffic tickets, no minors in possession of alcohol and no other warrants or arrests in their background.
Following these suggestions will help teen workers seeking jobs to be hired. Employers look for these attributes and more when deciding whether or not to hire a teen. Teens should also be reminded to put their best foot forward at the interview.
