I'm only 17 and I've never worked before.
I'm starting to look for a job now and I'm not sure about what to do. I keep
thinking that other people are going to get the job because they have better
skills. How can a kid like me get some worthwhile job training?
MoeTheMonk: Sad Dilemma.... I'm only a few years older and I've been there. There aren't many jobs out there that will be fun or pay well for a 17-year-old. I suggest going to a place where you already hang out. Ask them about getting a job there. I did that at a comedy club when I was 17, and now I'm their Production Manager with a well-paid salary position.
Tinuvial: If you approach the hiring manager of a specific business with a sincere desire to learn, and a willingness to "get the job done," you will be hired. The most frequent problem with young workers is not a lack of skills, but an unwillingness to do the job, i.e., goofing off at work, not showing up, or showing up late. Taking a responsible and mature attitude about working will go a lot farther than skills in looking for your first job. Be positive.
Reaper_Of_Sorrow: You should try to find out if your school has a co-op program with a local company that is in your field of interest. If your school doesn't have such a program, see if your local community college provides any kind of courses that HS students can take as an evening class. I started out as a burger flipper at Hardee's. It wasn't the best of jobs, but it was money in my pocket. I hope this helps you out a little.
poetry1: I think it is a question of knowing what you want to do. Can you extend your hobbies/interests into a work area? Everyone is good at something. A good start without specific skills maybe in the voluntary sector. Best wishes from
Eric Goldsworthy, London, England. [email protected]
markxtreme: Practice your interviewing skills!!! It sounds silly, but have your friends/family pretend as if they are interviewing you for a specific job. I have landed several jobs, where I didn't have as much experience as other people trying to get the job, solely because of my attitude during the interview. Talk to a lot of people who have jobs (your parents and their friends are a good start) and get interviewing advice from them. In your interview, show a lot of energy and enthusiasm. Also, see if you could get into an internship at your dream job/company. Best of luck...it worked for me.
scotting: Since this is your first job, don't think "career" -- think "work experience." (It's just as important to find out what jobs you don't like as it is to find out what type of jobs you do like.) Most of the positions open to 17-year-olds have only one requirement: Be responsible. If you can convey that you have a sincere desire to work hard, there shouldn't be a problem getting hired. Start looking for work at the businesses you already frequent.
