Job-hunting teenagers are still one of the hardest hit group of Americans seek- ing employment. There are so many teens that are looking for work that can’t find any. If they do find jobs, shortly after some get fired or laid off because the business can’t afford to retain them.
“Yes, I had a job at The Shalom Food Pantry but it was a summer job through the Boys and Girls Club. I got laid off because I got paid by funds,” said Selena Martinez, a senior in the Communication Academy.
“I am hoping my next job could be somewhere working with animals.”
— Selena Martinez, Indian Trail senior
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 25.6 percent of teens ages 16 to 19 were employed in 2012. It was a historic low, down from 45.2 per- cent in 2000.
“I have been unemployed for about a month, I am hoping my next job could be somewhere working with animals. Fast food and retail are not really my thing,” said Martinez.
Professional career advisors offer tips teens should consider following to help them with their interviews in their job hunt. The interview is important, because it is the employer’s first impression of the candidate. Looking well-dressed and being polite helps. They don’t want a person that will be rude to the customers.
Another reason teens face high unemployment rates is teens are too picky as to jobs they are willing to do, but consider gaining experience at those entry level jobs as stepping stones to higher level jobs down the road. In the years to come, if the economy gets better, the teen unemployment should go down.
Tips for acing an interview
1) Arrive prepared. Make sure you research the company and the position you are applying for, as well as the people you will meet with at the interview if possible. Review your own work experience.
2) Once you have finished studying, begin role playing. Answer the general questions in your head before you go to the interview 3) Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Make sure you seem interested.
4) Avoid negative comments 5) Listen and adapt and dress appropriately 6) Focus on achievements relevant to the position 7) Encourage the interviewer to share information about the company, and demonstrate your interest.