Tough Summer For Job-Hunting Teens
LANSING (WWJ) - The number of teens in the job market this summer is expected to decline, but that doesn't mean the competition for employment will be any easier. This year, teens will likely face increased competition from adults for available jobs.
Spokesman Paul Duford from SEMCA "Michigan Works" said if you're teen is in the market for a summer job, you might want to suggest this:
"Consider being your own boss," Duford told WWJ Newsradio 950.
"There are many opportunities that become available in the summertime that may allow you to be your own boss. Those can include lawn and yard care, house cleaning, house or pet sitting, summer babysitting, window washing or car washing, or even dog walking," Duford said.
And, even though it may seem "old school", dressing for success on any job interview remains very important.
"I think that it's very important to wear clothes that are neat and clean. Pants should be around the waist and the shirt should be tucked in," Duford
"The advice that I like to give is that you have to remember you only get once chance to make a first impression with an employer, so you want to make sure it's one that a future employer wants to have representing their company," he said.
Duford said it's also important to coach teens on proper hand shaking and eye contact during an interview.
The Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget offered these additional teen summer job tips:
- Start looking early
- Keep looking
- Visit local businesses
- Let friends/neighbors know you are looking for work
- Talk with school guidance counselors
- Use on-line job boards and newspaper want-ads
Nearly 275,000 Michigan teens are expected to seek a job this summer.
Teens are encouraged to contact Michigan Works! at 1-800-285-WORKS to determine if they qualify for Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Youth Programs. Michigan Works! Michiganworks.org also provides assistance in resume development and job search, and provides access to the Michigan Talent Bank at Michiganworks.org.
