What teens look for in a seasonal job

The first job is both a scary and exciting thing for a teenager. It’s a rite of passage, a sign of maturity, and, often, the first time they earn real money to spend as they please. Some jobs are informal; others require a resume and an interview—and, afterward, dress-up clothes—just like in the adult world.

If you’re looking for help, teenage job seekers are a great source of short-term support. But what should you do to attract the best candidates? What kind of culture can you create to make your business somewhere that teens want to work?

Money

We had a hard time choosing which of these first two items—money or experience—should be number one. But in the end, money wins. And you can’t blame them. Lots of American teenagers are helping parents pay bills or saving up to put themselves through school. Teens want a short-term job that offers them the chance to make some money and gain experience. So, if you want good seasonal help, you need to be prepared to pay a decent wage—depending on the job, $10–$15 per hour, at minimum, is recommended. Of course, if you are in a business where tipping is standard, a reduced wage supplemented by tips is appropriate. It will encourage teens to offer exceptional service and, in turn, increase their potential earnings based on performance.

Work Experience

Following closely on the heels of money, teens want to experience the world of work. They need to know what it’s like to have the responsibility of being on time, dependable and adapting to new ways of doing things, all while learning to cooperate with people from different backgrounds and different personalities. In short, working for you should allow teens to present and conduct themselves in a professional environment while learning skills that are transferable to another job or industry. 

Fun

Teens want to have fun at work. Serious, stuffy office jobs can come later in life. A seasonal job should offer more pizazz. A fun job can be anything from working with friends or co-workers of a similar age range to doing something enjoyable in a relaxed environment. Many teenagers like to socialize, so if you have a client-centered business, this can work well. A welcoming atmosphere with positive energy will also leave a good impression on customers. If you make your place of business a warm, inviting, courteous and a fun place to work, then not only will your seasonal hires be happy—your customers will be, too.

Educational Benefits

Many teens will have the opportunity to earn school credit for select seasonal jobs for high school or college. The requirements of each school will differ, but if a potential hire asks for your help to allow them to receive educational credit, you should try to accommodate. Let them know that you can provide a letter of reference for any future pursuits. Word will spread, and you’ll likely have a steady stream of well-qualified applicants when you need seasonal help in the future. Plus, it’s the right thing to do.

Flexibility

Teenagers still want time to be teenagers. To the extent possible, allow some flexibility in things like shift scheduling and dress. While your workers should still be there on time and present professionally, if you work with your employees, they’ll be more likely to work hard for you.

Perks

We’ve all met somebody who still talks about that great job they had as a teenager with the awesome perks—say, getting to watch movies for free after their shift wrapped up at a movie theater or free ice cream at a snack shop. Try to include perks, even simple ones, with the job and in the job description. It can go a long way toward attracting eager young employees and might even encourage them to return the next season. 

Learning about potential careers

While this is related to “experience,” some teens will specifically seek out jobs that are in fields they’re interested in. If you interview a potential hire interested in your industry or line of work for their future, you’re likely looking at someone ready to work hard, learn and impress you. If it works out, it could even lead to a more permanent position down the road—a win-win for everybody. 

References and recommendations

Soon teens will be faced with the prospect of applying to colleges or starting to look for jobs. If they’re on the ball, they know they’ll need references and/or letters of recommendation from people who know them and their skills. Do all you can to be accommodating in this regard, and make it known when you hire that you have this in mind—it will incentivize your workers to give you their best.

Mentorship

Teens want someone who can teach them about life and the job market. This is your opportunity to step up, be a mentor and provide your seasonal hires an experience that is a cut above the rest. To that end, make sure your hires know your door is always open, and make a deliberate effort to stay in touch. Collect phone numbers, email addresses and potentially even social media info so that you can reconnect with your workers in the future. Who knows, you may need help one day, and one of your old workers could step in to help you as you once supported them.

Social: 

Teenage job seekers are a great source of short-term, seasonal support. Find the best candidates by offering the things they’re looking for in a job and work environment with these things teens look for in a seasonal job.