7 answers
Nevaeh
Student
Emmett, Idaho
4
Questions
Asked
766 views
What should I do to find a new job after being laid off?
So, I was laid off from my job after my manager was arrested for being a p3d0. The owner of the place said it was because of overstaffing, but I'm not entirely convinced. I currently am struggling with finding a new job, but I'm not sure anyone would want to hire a 16 year old who was laid off before their first official paycheck.
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7 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
1009
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I would look at finding potential employment at a local county or state career center.
These centers offer resources like job listings, workshops on resume writing and interviewing, access to computers, and career counselors who can assess your skills and refer you to suitable positions.
You can also use statewide online job boards and resources like the federal CareerOneStop website to find local American Job Centers and opportunities.
Colleges and universities normally also have job centers, where students can browse opportunities, internships and volunteer employment options, to help them gain more experience
So, these might be options to consider.
These centers offer resources like job listings, workshops on resume writing and interviewing, access to computers, and career counselors who can assess your skills and refer you to suitable positions.
You can also use statewide online job boards and resources like the federal CareerOneStop website to find local American Job Centers and opportunities.
Colleges and universities normally also have job centers, where students can browse opportunities, internships and volunteer employment options, to help them gain more experience
So, these might be options to consider.
Agata Halford-White
Sr. Product Manager - Services Gloabal Portfolio
13
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Agata’s Answer
Getting laid off is tough at any age, whether you're 16, 26, or 56. You're still very young, and this experience will make you stronger for your future career. When one door closes, another opens. Challenges can turn into opportunities. I was a bit older than 16 when I lost my first job after college. Looking back, it was the best thing for my career, even though it didn't feel like it at the time. It pushed me to look for new opportunities. Be brave and explore. You don't need all the answers right now, but don't give up. Learn from this and keep moving forward. I'm sure you'll find something else soon.
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1085
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Nevaeh,
I am sorry this happened to you. Since you worked there for such a short time, there is no need to even put it on your resume.
I understand that at your age any experience is very valuable, but in this case there doesn't seem to be any benefit. Just start fresh. It's perfectly reasonable for a 16-year old to look for a first job.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
I am sorry this happened to you. Since you worked there for such a short time, there is no need to even put it on your resume.
I understand that at your age any experience is very valuable, but in this case there doesn't seem to be any benefit. Just start fresh. It's perfectly reasonable for a 16-year old to look for a first job.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Ann C
Learning & Development, Software, Administrative, Tech, Systems
52
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Ann’s Answer
You’ve got this! At your age, finding a retail job shouldn’t be horribly difficult. You may not be able to do exactly what you want or work in the type of shop that you desire, but those are good jobs for people who have the least amount of experience. If you don’t want to do retail, you could always do things like cleaning homes, taking care of cats or dogs, housesitting, etc.
Believe in yourself. I believe anyone can do anything if they put their mind to it. I know that sounds cheesy, but it’s the truth. There may have been a reason for you to lose that job so that another opportunity opens up in a better company for you. It happened to me, and the opportunity that I got after the company that I worked for closed up was a job that I held for over 15 years. I’m still there.
Believe in yourself. I believe anyone can do anything if they put their mind to it. I know that sounds cheesy, but it’s the truth. There may have been a reason for you to lose that job so that another opportunity opens up in a better company for you. It happened to me, and the opportunity that I got after the company that I worked for closed up was a job that I held for over 15 years. I’m still there.
Michelle M.
Actress
3276
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Nevaeh !
Wow, it took me time, however, I really understand what you're saying. It is actually a blessing that you are no longer around that manager. My advice is to not put it down as a job on applications or a resume because your local business people may be aware of this case and it won't be a good reflection even if the manager is not guilty. So start fresh. At 16, you can definitely find a new job.
The first place you may want to look would be at food service places, your local hospital in the food service or data entry departments or reception, or at retail stores. Also try applying to the Treasure Valley Family YMCA as they offer jobs for teens. Jobs in these types of venues often require no experience and the employers are open to giving teens an opportunity for experience. You can also look on the website Hire Teen for your location in Emmet.
Assuming that you're not enrolled in private school, Emmet High School can help you find work. They have a Career Center that can help you explore job opportunities. At this high school, they also offer apprenticeships, which are paid positions with on the job training and formal education leading to certification. If you attend Emmet High School, this would be a good path to take for a first job.
So even though the last job experience you had was disappointing, there is enough reason to continue forward and connect with the local resources I've mentioned.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Wow, it took me time, however, I really understand what you're saying. It is actually a blessing that you are no longer around that manager. My advice is to not put it down as a job on applications or a resume because your local business people may be aware of this case and it won't be a good reflection even if the manager is not guilty. So start fresh. At 16, you can definitely find a new job.
The first place you may want to look would be at food service places, your local hospital in the food service or data entry departments or reception, or at retail stores. Also try applying to the Treasure Valley Family YMCA as they offer jobs for teens. Jobs in these types of venues often require no experience and the employers are open to giving teens an opportunity for experience. You can also look on the website Hire Teen for your location in Emmet.
Assuming that you're not enrolled in private school, Emmet High School can help you find work. They have a Career Center that can help you explore job opportunities. At this high school, they also offer apprenticeships, which are paid positions with on the job training and formal education leading to certification. If you attend Emmet High School, this would be a good path to take for a first job.
So even though the last job experience you had was disappointing, there is enough reason to continue forward and connect with the local resources I've mentioned.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Susana N
Case manager, and Medical Assistant
2
Answers
Lancaster
Updated
Susana’s Answer
I'm sorry you're facing a difficult time. I agree with Michelle, and if you've been laid off, I hope you've applied for unemployment benefits. There are many options available to you, including educational programs and apprenticeships, many of which offer paid training. Even if you're 16, you can apply. I hope this information is helpful. Good luck!
Sagarika Priyadarshini
Senior Advisor, Product Management - IT
15
Answers
Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
Updated
Sagarika’s Answer
Hello Nevaeh,
I am sorry this happened to you. Don’t let this setback discourage you—it doesn’t define your potential. Being laid off at 16 is not unusual, and many employers value enthusiasm and a willingness to learn over experience. Focus on what you can control: build skills through free online courses, volunteer work, or small projects. When applying for jobs, keep your explanation simple—mention it was due to staffing changes—and highlight your eagerness to work and learn. Your age can be an advantage because employers often appreciate motivated young workers. Stay positive, keep applying, and use this as an opportunity to grow . You have a bright future ahead. Wishing you all the best!
I am sorry this happened to you. Don’t let this setback discourage you—it doesn’t define your potential. Being laid off at 16 is not unusual, and many employers value enthusiasm and a willingness to learn over experience. Focus on what you can control: build skills through free online courses, volunteer work, or small projects. When applying for jobs, keep your explanation simple—mention it was due to staffing changes—and highlight your eagerness to work and learn. Your age can be an advantage because employers often appreciate motivated young workers. Stay positive, keep applying, and use this as an opportunity to grow . You have a bright future ahead. Wishing you all the best!