How Parents Can Help Teens Get Their First Job (& Cut the Apron Strings) by Megan Demmler

Teens Parenting
6 years ago

How Parents Can Help Teens Get Their First Job (& Cut the Apron Strings)

I manage a small business and every year we get teens applying for their first job. Lately, I experienced a new phenomenon: parents applying for their child. So here are a few tips to help your child succeed:

  • Have them come in to pick up the application alone. Having mom or dad there holding their hand makes us think they aren't independent enough to work.
  • Let them fill out the application. If they aren't committed enough to take five minutes to fill out the application, they aren't ready to work (and yes, we notice your meticulous handwriting paired with their chicken scratch bubble signature).
  • Let them come into the interview alone. We aren't interested in hiring you; we are interested in hiring your child.
  • Have them make follow-up calls and prepare them with questions.

If they land the job, please remember that it is theirs. All communication regarding the position, their schedule, time off, etc., should be handled by them. We will help guide them because we know this is all new to them, but learning how to handle things alone will help them become independent humans, who may finally take the initiative to clean their rooms without being asked.

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Ann Marie Patitucci
Great advice, Megan Caton ! Welcome to the tribe!
Donna John
Great tips here, Megan Caton ! It's hard to cut those strings, but so important. Look forward to more advice and wisdom from you. Welcome to the tribe!
Elisa Schmitz
Oh, great advice! Thanks for pointing this out. Many parents need to read this! Welcome to our tribe. We look forward to learning and growing with you, Megan Caton ! 👍
Nicole DeAvilla
Welcome to the tribe Megan Caton ! Great tip!

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