Entering the workforce is a nerve-wracking experience, especially for those with little to no background, as the employment application process often feels overwhelming and stressful. For many teens, the idea of interviews, resumes, and rejection can make getting a first job seem even more intimidating. However, everyone starts somewhere. Being new to the workforce does not mean an individual has nothing to offer. There are a plethora of jobs that hire 15 and 16 year-olds with no prior experience.
“Once you apply to a job, their usual description is ‘must have experience,’” senior Venice Nevine Velayo stated. “The whole point of applying to jobs is to gain that experience, it’s discouraging to know that in order to apply for a simple job for minimum wage, we would need a year or two of experience.”
Although not all jobs require a resume, having one sets a person away from the rest. Many people believe resumes are only for prior job titles, which just isn’t true. Volunteer work, clubs, advanced classes, community service, babysitting, dog sitting, and even helping with family responsibilities can all be put into a resume for a teenager. Certifications such as CPR or a food handler’s card, may increase the chances of getting hired. Including skills like teamwork, communication, multitasking, and time management highlights qualities that most employers are looking for.
Before applying, it is important to review job requirements and understand what the position involves. By doing this, it will help an individual be better prepared and use that knowledge to answer questions and when setting up a resume. Preparing for interviews can also make a significant difference. Practicing common questions, dressing appropriately, maintaining eye contact, and limiting filler words can help the conversation feel more natural. Feeling nervous is completely normal as it often means an individual cares.
Nevine Velayo stated, “Personally, for the jobs I applied for, I find questions online that could be potentially asked and practice talking to myself. The main questions would be, ‘Tell me about yourself’ or ‘What is your weakness?’ The best possible advice for interviews is to continuously talk. Interviewers like individuals who express themselves a lot.”
For students applying to restaurants or food-related positions, obtaining a food handler’s card can strengthen an application. The process is affordable and includes study materials and practice tests to help applicants feel confident. There are plenty of practice tests on YouTube that provide similar questions to the actual test. In total, there are 20 questions, requiring only a passing score of 70% to receive a food handler’s card.
Rejection is another part of the process. Not being hired does not reflect one’s shortcomings or lack of ability; It’s simply redirection. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to not get something on the first try. A way to think about it positively is to recognize that it’s building experience and prepping for future interviews, eventually gaining confidence.
Junior Hailey Denham voiced, “Getting a job is easier when you use your resources to your advantage and don’t be afraid to talk to people and get out there.”
