How to help your Year 11 teen get a summer job
The exams are over. Your teen has had a bit of a rest. So, what next?
The long summer break presents an excellent opportunity for Year 11 teens to gain valuable work experience, develop new skills, and earn some extra income. They’ll make new friends, gain independence and get a bit of an insight into the world outside of the school environment.
Here’s a step by step guide on how to go about landing that first part-time job.
(1) Help your teen to identify their skills and interests
You might be thinking that surely they just have to take what they can get at this age. I disagree. By giving them that message, we are setting them up for a lifetime of taking what they think they can get, rather than thinking about what they actually want. This is a recipe for misery. Believe me, I’ve been there. Being a square peg in a round hole is no fun at all.
It’s important that this first experience of the workplace helps them build self-esteem, rather than erodes it.
Encourage your teen to reflect on their interests, strengths, and skills.
Identifying areas of passion and expertise will help them narrow down the types of jobs they should target.
Are they good with people?
Are they good with children?
Do they prefer working with others or working alone?
Do they thrive in a fast-paced environment?
Whether it’s customer service, retail, hospitality, tutoring, or working in a summer camp, finding a job aligned with their interests will make the experience more fulfilling.
(2) Help them create a CV
Help your teen to create a well-structured CV that highlights their achievements, academic performance, extracurricular activities, and any relevant volunteer experiences. Even though they may not have extensive work experience, emphasising transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving will make their CV stand out. Here is an example of a school-leaver CV which you could use as a template School leaver CV example | Prospects.ac.uk
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(3) Network and seek referrals
Encourage your teen to reach out to friends, family, teachers, and neighbours to inquire about potential job opportunities. Networking can significantly increase their chances of finding suitable employment. Additionally, ask them to request referrals or recommendations from teachers or other individuals who can vouch for their skills and character.
(4) Utilise online job websites
Online job portals and websites specifically designed for summer jobs are great resources for teenagers seeking employment. Websites like Indeed or local job boards often have listings for part-time or seasonal positions. Encourage your teen to regularly check these platforms and submit their applications promptly.
(5) Approach local businesses
Local businesses such as restaurants, cafes, shops, and recreational centres often hire extra staff during the summer months. Encourage your teen to visit these establishments in person, inquire about job vacancies, and submit their CV directly. A confident and polite demeanor can leave a lasting impression on potential employers.
(6) Develop strong interview skills
Prepare your teen for job interviews by conducting mock interviews and providing constructive feedback. Emphasise the importance of dressing appropriately, maintaining good eye contact, and demonstrating enthusiasm and professionalism. Encourage them to research the company beforehand to show genuine interest and to prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview.
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(7) Help your teen to emphasise their transferable skills
Teach your teen to highlight transferable skills gained through school projects, extracurricular activities, or volunteering. Communication, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and time management skills are highly valued by employers, even if they were acquired outside of formal work environments. Help your teen articulate these skills effectively.
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(8) Help them show that they are willing to learn
Emphasise to your teen the importance of displaying a willingness to learn and grow in the workplace. Employers appreciate candidates who are proactive, adaptable, and open to taking on new challenges. Highlight their ability to quickly grasp new concepts and demonstrate a strong work ethic.
(9) Encourage your teen to follow up after interviews
After each job interview, encourage your teen to send a thank-you email or letter expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to interview. This gesture not only shows appreciation but also reinforces their interest in the position. It helps them stand out and leaves a positive impression on potential employers.
Securing a summer job can be an enriching experience for Year 11 teens, providing them with valuable skills and real-world exposure.
