We celebrated when our son secured his first job. He isn’t involved in sports or clubs so a job is an excellent way for him to grow as a person. So much is gained for our teenagers when they jump into the workforce. I wanted to set my son up for success and to ensure continued success. Here are five strategies to help your teen thrive in his new job but sometimes it may simply survive.
- I talk to my son about the purpose of the income he earns. We believe in tithing our income, although my son doesn’t hold the same beliefs, I still shared with him this practice. His statement, “That’s not for me.”I encourage him to make goals, such as a vehicle, college, insurance, etc. I lay out how much we can help and how much he needs to save. Through this new job, we have been able to figure out college expenses, car expenses, as well as other responsibilities. I have been revisiting these expenses, and we have been doing research together for him to understand how much he needs to be saving. It has been a big eye-opener for him.
- When I go to a store, I love it when people try to make their customers feel good. I encourage my son to go above what is expected and make people feel special. He has shared frustration about a lady that comes in at 10:59 pm every Friday when closing is at 11 pm. As he is leaving, I encourage him to be extra nice to the 10:59 pm customer. Taking this advice will help him be successful at his job, enjoy work, and make others happy.
- I encourage my son to do his best. Nowadays, there are probably video cameras that can be viewed by his boss at any time. Technology is impressive at how well supervision on a business is very simple. I tell my son, “Act like your boss is standing next to you all the time.” I encourage him to do his best, so he can feel good he is applying himself to the best of his ability.
- Be on top of your game! Transitioning from playing in the yard or going to school is much different than going to work. I encourage my son to wear clothes that are free from rips and holes. A few reminders include: “Trim your beard, brush your teeth, use deodorant, wear clean clothes, don’t write on your body, and don’t forget your smile.” I try not to overwhelm him with advise but I do give the ones that are applicable.
- One area that teens may not understand is they are building their reputation. I share with him that future employees may contact his boss and ask about his performance. The importance of having great recommendations will impact future employment. Many teen jobs may be tedious, boring, monotonous, or just not fun. Through those moments I encourage my son to remember he is building his reputation.
My son smiles at me and is so gracious when I give him advice. I’m not sure if he is actually listening to me or thinking about what he is going to do with his friends. Just in case he is listening I want to do my best to help him to have the correct mindset for a successful first job experience.