8 answers
tameya
Student
1
Question
Updated
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what are some ways to start preparing for your career as a teenager?
what are some things i can do that’ll help look good when i’m applying for a position at my career?
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8 answers
David Hulme
Director of Sales Engineers
19
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
David’s Answer
Tameya, great question. I can tell you from the perspective of someone that does hiring, the whole process from the employer's side is all about dealing with risk. Can this candidate do what I need them to do? Are they reliable and dependable? Are they going to have the social skills that I need from them for the role?
As a young person, what I'd counsel you to do is build up evidence over the next few years to address those questions and others like that. You can start small, and you've got lots of tools to help build this picture of who you are. If your situation allows for it, work any type of job, even if it's not close to what you ultimately want to do. You might not think that doing things as simple as working a cash register might not translate to a career in your adulthood, but you'd be wrong. As a hiring person, seeing a stable job history distinguishes you from your peers that don't have one.
The other tool you have now that I'd encourage you to leverage is social media and the internet. Let's say you want to be a programmer. Pick projects that involve writing code and share your journey from start to finish on YouTube or another website. Allowing people to watch you grow and tackle the projects over time will build a ton of credibility for you. I get dozens of resume's that claim that the applicant has some skill. If I have a candidate that backs that up with "and if you want to see some of the work that I've done, go to my YouTube channel for examples I've been doing", I'm going to believe them over the folks that don't have that.
Doing that kind of thing works for any career, not just programming. Want to be a musician? Share your experience on video of you learning to master an instrument. Want to be an engineer? Record yourself building some contraption and getting it to do what you're trying for. Any career you can think of just about is going to have some kind of element that you can demonstrate, learn, or discuss.
Minimize the risk and uncertainty about what you're capable of, and folks like me will be clamoring to hire you, and you'll be able to command higher pay too.
Good luck!
As a young person, what I'd counsel you to do is build up evidence over the next few years to address those questions and others like that. You can start small, and you've got lots of tools to help build this picture of who you are. If your situation allows for it, work any type of job, even if it's not close to what you ultimately want to do. You might not think that doing things as simple as working a cash register might not translate to a career in your adulthood, but you'd be wrong. As a hiring person, seeing a stable job history distinguishes you from your peers that don't have one.
The other tool you have now that I'd encourage you to leverage is social media and the internet. Let's say you want to be a programmer. Pick projects that involve writing code and share your journey from start to finish on YouTube or another website. Allowing people to watch you grow and tackle the projects over time will build a ton of credibility for you. I get dozens of resume's that claim that the applicant has some skill. If I have a candidate that backs that up with "and if you want to see some of the work that I've done, go to my YouTube channel for examples I've been doing", I'm going to believe them over the folks that don't have that.
Doing that kind of thing works for any career, not just programming. Want to be a musician? Share your experience on video of you learning to master an instrument. Want to be an engineer? Record yourself building some contraption and getting it to do what you're trying for. Any career you can think of just about is going to have some kind of element that you can demonstrate, learn, or discuss.
Minimize the risk and uncertainty about what you're capable of, and folks like me will be clamoring to hire you, and you'll be able to command higher pay too.
Good luck!
Bo Kim
Health Administration
11
Answers
Springfield, Missouri
Updated
Bo’s Answer
Hi Tameya,
Starting to prepare for your career as a teenager is a great idea and can give you a head start in achieving your goals. Here are some things you can do to begin your career preparation:
• Self-assessment: Reflect on your interests, strengths, and skills. Understand what excites you and what you excel at, as this will help you narrow down potential career paths.
• Explore different career options: Research various careers and industries to get a sense of what they entail. Look into the qualifications and skills required for each role.
• Set clear goals: Once you have an idea of your interests and potential career paths, set specific and achievable goals for yourself. Having a clear direction will make your preparation more focused.
• Academic excellence: Focus on your studies and aim for good grades. A strong academic record can open doors to opportunities, scholarships, and college admissions.
• Extracurricular activities: Participate in extracurricular activities that align with your interests and showcase leadership, teamwork, and initiative. This can include clubs, sports, volunteering, or personal projects.
• Internships and part-time jobs: Seek out internships or part-time jobs related to your desired career field. Hands-on experience can be invaluable and will also demonstrate your commitment.
• Network: Build relationships with teachers, mentors, and professionals in your chosen field. Attend career fairs, networking events, and industry conferences to connect with people who can offer guidance and opportunities.
• Learn new skills: Identify skills that are important in your chosen career and work on developing them. This could be anything from coding to public speaking to project management.
• Online courses and certifications: Take advantage of online learning platforms to acquire certifications and gain knowledge in areas relevant to your career interests.
• Personal projects and portfolio: If applicable, work on personal projects or create a portfolio showcasing your work. This can be especially beneficial for creative fields like design, writing, or art.
• Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with industry trends, news, and advancements. Being well-informed shows your dedication to the field.
• Volunteer work: Engage in volunteer activities to develop empathy and social skills. Volunteering also demonstrates your commitment to making a positive impact in your community.
When applying for a position at your desired career, the following tips can help you stand out:
• Tailor your resume: Customize your resume for each job application, highlighting relevant skills and experiences that match the specific job requirements.
• Craft a compelling cover letter: Write a well-structured cover letter explaining why you are a good fit for the position and how your skills align with the company's goals.
• Professional online presence: Ensure your social media profiles reflect a positive and professional image. Many employers check social media accounts as part of their hiring process.
• Practice interview skills: Prepare for interviews by practicing common interview questions with a friend or family member. Confidence and clear communication go a long way in interviews.
• References: Secure strong references from teachers, mentors, or previous employers who can vouch for your skills and work ethic.
• Continued learning: Show that you are committed to learning and growing by mentioning any recent courses, certifications, or workshops you've completed.
• Demonstrate passion: During interviews, express your enthusiasm for the industry and the specific role you're applying for. Employers value candidates who are genuinely passionate about their work.
Remember, career preparation is a continuous journey, and early efforts can pay off significantly in the long run. Stay persistent, open to new opportunities, and adaptable to changes along the way. Good luck!
Starting to prepare for your career as a teenager is a great idea and can give you a head start in achieving your goals. Here are some things you can do to begin your career preparation:
• Self-assessment: Reflect on your interests, strengths, and skills. Understand what excites you and what you excel at, as this will help you narrow down potential career paths.
• Explore different career options: Research various careers and industries to get a sense of what they entail. Look into the qualifications and skills required for each role.
• Set clear goals: Once you have an idea of your interests and potential career paths, set specific and achievable goals for yourself. Having a clear direction will make your preparation more focused.
• Academic excellence: Focus on your studies and aim for good grades. A strong academic record can open doors to opportunities, scholarships, and college admissions.
• Extracurricular activities: Participate in extracurricular activities that align with your interests and showcase leadership, teamwork, and initiative. This can include clubs, sports, volunteering, or personal projects.
• Internships and part-time jobs: Seek out internships or part-time jobs related to your desired career field. Hands-on experience can be invaluable and will also demonstrate your commitment.
• Network: Build relationships with teachers, mentors, and professionals in your chosen field. Attend career fairs, networking events, and industry conferences to connect with people who can offer guidance and opportunities.
• Learn new skills: Identify skills that are important in your chosen career and work on developing them. This could be anything from coding to public speaking to project management.
• Online courses and certifications: Take advantage of online learning platforms to acquire certifications and gain knowledge in areas relevant to your career interests.
• Personal projects and portfolio: If applicable, work on personal projects or create a portfolio showcasing your work. This can be especially beneficial for creative fields like design, writing, or art.
• Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with industry trends, news, and advancements. Being well-informed shows your dedication to the field.
• Volunteer work: Engage in volunteer activities to develop empathy and social skills. Volunteering also demonstrates your commitment to making a positive impact in your community.
When applying for a position at your desired career, the following tips can help you stand out:
• Tailor your resume: Customize your resume for each job application, highlighting relevant skills and experiences that match the specific job requirements.
• Craft a compelling cover letter: Write a well-structured cover letter explaining why you are a good fit for the position and how your skills align with the company's goals.
• Professional online presence: Ensure your social media profiles reflect a positive and professional image. Many employers check social media accounts as part of their hiring process.
• Practice interview skills: Prepare for interviews by practicing common interview questions with a friend or family member. Confidence and clear communication go a long way in interviews.
• References: Secure strong references from teachers, mentors, or previous employers who can vouch for your skills and work ethic.
• Continued learning: Show that you are committed to learning and growing by mentioning any recent courses, certifications, or workshops you've completed.
• Demonstrate passion: During interviews, express your enthusiasm for the industry and the specific role you're applying for. Employers value candidates who are genuinely passionate about their work.
Remember, career preparation is a continuous journey, and early efforts can pay off significantly in the long run. Stay persistent, open to new opportunities, and adaptable to changes along the way. Good luck!
Desiree Howell
1
Answer
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Updated
Desiree’s Answer
Hello there!
It's fantastic to see you're already thinking ahead! If you're still in high school, one of the most crucial pieces of advice I can offer is to finish high school and strive to achieve the best grades possible. This might sound like a no-brainer, but it's a stepping stone that shapes and fuels your future. Starting off on the right foot like this opens up a world of diverse opportunities for you.
Next, try to identify your career aspirations. What ignites your passion? What brings you joy? Look for extracurricular activities at school or within your community, and seek out internships or volunteer opportunities. This way, you can start gathering valuable experience even at a young age!
It's fantastic to see you're already thinking ahead! If you're still in high school, one of the most crucial pieces of advice I can offer is to finish high school and strive to achieve the best grades possible. This might sound like a no-brainer, but it's a stepping stone that shapes and fuels your future. Starting off on the right foot like this opens up a world of diverse opportunities for you.
Next, try to identify your career aspirations. What ignites your passion? What brings you joy? Look for extracurricular activities at school or within your community, and seek out internships or volunteer opportunities. This way, you can start gathering valuable experience even at a young age!
Alfred Lee
Sales Rep
5
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Alfred’s Answer
Great to see you taking initiative early on!
1. Begin by evaluating your strengths and weaknesses, jotting them down for reference.
2. Reflect on past experiences where you have demonstrated these strengths and weaknesses. This will provide concrete examples you can refer to.
3. Consider starting volunteer work or a job. This will not only enhance your resume, but also give you an opportunity to receive valuable feedback from peers and colleagues.
1. Begin by evaluating your strengths and weaknesses, jotting them down for reference.
2. Reflect on past experiences where you have demonstrated these strengths and weaknesses. This will provide concrete examples you can refer to.
3. Consider starting volunteer work or a job. This will not only enhance your resume, but also give you an opportunity to receive valuable feedback from peers and colleagues.
Hannah Olson
Sales
3
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Hannah’s Answer
Firstly, you've got plenty of time to discover your likes and dislikes before settling on a career. A great first step is to dive into various industries and roles. Pursue internships and part-time jobs that spark your curiosity. The more hands-on experience you gain, the more insight you'll gather about your passions and preferences.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Tameya, I appreciate your initiative in reaching out and seeking advice about your career preparation. I want you to know that it is excellent that you're thinking about preparing for your career at this stage. As a teenager, there are several proactive steps you can take to enhance your future employability. I hope the information that I have below provides you some insight and/or help.
Firstly, concentrate on establishing a solid educational base. This can be achieved by maintaining high grades and undertaking rigorous coursework. Also, consider joining extracurricular activities that match your interests and showcase your leadership, teamwork, or communication abilities.
Next, consider gaining practical experience in your field of interest. This could be through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. Such experiences will not only enrich your resume but also help you acquire relevant skills and make informed choices about your future career.
Networking is another crucial aspect of career preparation. Participate in industry-related events, job fairs, or informal interviews with professionals in your chosen field. These connections could lead to mentorship, advice, and potential job opportunities in the future.
Tameya, it's also important to invest time in enhancing your communication and interpersonal skills, as they are vital in any work environment. This includes improving your written and verbal communication, and establishing a professional online presence, such as on LinkedIn. A well-structured resume and an up-to-date LinkedIn profile will also help you make a positive impression when applying for jobs.
Lastly, consider reaching out to a career counselor at your school or in your local area. They can offer tailored advice, assist you in exploring potential career options, and help set achievable future goals. Overall, being proactive in your education, gaining practical experience, networking, and polishing your professional skills will undoubtedly increase your competitiveness when applying for roles in your chosen career.
Firstly, concentrate on establishing a solid educational base. This can be achieved by maintaining high grades and undertaking rigorous coursework. Also, consider joining extracurricular activities that match your interests and showcase your leadership, teamwork, or communication abilities.
Next, consider gaining practical experience in your field of interest. This could be through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. Such experiences will not only enrich your resume but also help you acquire relevant skills and make informed choices about your future career.
Networking is another crucial aspect of career preparation. Participate in industry-related events, job fairs, or informal interviews with professionals in your chosen field. These connections could lead to mentorship, advice, and potential job opportunities in the future.
Tameya, it's also important to invest time in enhancing your communication and interpersonal skills, as they are vital in any work environment. This includes improving your written and verbal communication, and establishing a professional online presence, such as on LinkedIn. A well-structured resume and an up-to-date LinkedIn profile will also help you make a positive impression when applying for jobs.
Lastly, consider reaching out to a career counselor at your school or in your local area. They can offer tailored advice, assist you in exploring potential career options, and help set achievable future goals. Overall, being proactive in your education, gaining practical experience, networking, and polishing your professional skills will undoubtedly increase your competitiveness when applying for roles in your chosen career.
Mustabsheera Vengus
GMBPsS 🎓 | Aspiring Psychologist | Behavior Therapist | Counselor | Mentor
38
Answers
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Updated
Mustabsheera’s Answer
Preparing for your career as a teenager is a proactive step that can give you a head start in achieving your goals. Here are some ways to get started:
Self-assessment: Take the time to understand your interests, strengths, and skills. Assess your passions and talents to identify potential career paths that align with your interests.
Explore different careers: Research various career options to gain insights into what they entail, their required qualifications, and potential growth opportunities. Attend career fairs, workshops, and seminars to learn about different professions.
Set career goals: Establish clear and achievable career goals based on your interests and aspirations. Having a roadmap will help you stay focused and motivated as you work towards your objectives.
Academic excellence: Focus on your studies and strive for academic excellence. A strong educational foundation is essential for pursuing most careers. Good grades will also open doors to higher education and scholarships.
Develop relevant skills: Identify the skills needed for your desired career and work on developing them. These might include communication, problem-solving, leadership, technical, or creative skills.
Participate in extracurricular activities: Engage in extracurricular activities, clubs, or sports that align with your interests. These activities can help you develop teamwork, leadership, and time management skills.
Volunteer and intern: Seek volunteer opportunities or internships in fields that interest you. Practical experience can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day aspects of a career and build your resume.
Build a professional network: Connect with professionals, mentors, and industry experts in your chosen field. Attend networking events and seek informational interviews to learn more about potential career paths.
Develop a portfolio: If applicable to your field, create a portfolio showcasing your projects, achievements, and skills. A portfolio can be a powerful tool to demonstrate your abilities to potential employers or colleges.
Research educational options: Look into colleges, universities, trade schools, or vocational programs that offer courses related to your career interests. Consider factors like reputation, program offerings, and financial aid options.
Seek guidance from counselors and mentors: Consult with your school counselors or teachers to get advice on academic and career planning. Additionally, seek guidance from mentors or professionals in your field of interest.
Stay informed about industry trends: Keep yourself updated on the latest developments and trends in your chosen industry. Subscribe to relevant publications, follow industry leaders on social media, and join online forums related to your field.
Develop a positive online presence: Be mindful of your online presence, as employers and educational institutions often review applicants' social media profiles. Use social media to showcase your skills and interests in a positive light.
Remember that career preparation is an ongoing process, and it's okay to explore different options as a teenager. Be open to new experiences, seek out opportunities, and continue learning and growing as you work towards your career aspirations.
Self-assessment: Take the time to understand your interests, strengths, and skills. Assess your passions and talents to identify potential career paths that align with your interests.
Explore different careers: Research various career options to gain insights into what they entail, their required qualifications, and potential growth opportunities. Attend career fairs, workshops, and seminars to learn about different professions.
Set career goals: Establish clear and achievable career goals based on your interests and aspirations. Having a roadmap will help you stay focused and motivated as you work towards your objectives.
Academic excellence: Focus on your studies and strive for academic excellence. A strong educational foundation is essential for pursuing most careers. Good grades will also open doors to higher education and scholarships.
Develop relevant skills: Identify the skills needed for your desired career and work on developing them. These might include communication, problem-solving, leadership, technical, or creative skills.
Participate in extracurricular activities: Engage in extracurricular activities, clubs, or sports that align with your interests. These activities can help you develop teamwork, leadership, and time management skills.
Volunteer and intern: Seek volunteer opportunities or internships in fields that interest you. Practical experience can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day aspects of a career and build your resume.
Build a professional network: Connect with professionals, mentors, and industry experts in your chosen field. Attend networking events and seek informational interviews to learn more about potential career paths.
Develop a portfolio: If applicable to your field, create a portfolio showcasing your projects, achievements, and skills. A portfolio can be a powerful tool to demonstrate your abilities to potential employers or colleges.
Research educational options: Look into colleges, universities, trade schools, or vocational programs that offer courses related to your career interests. Consider factors like reputation, program offerings, and financial aid options.
Seek guidance from counselors and mentors: Consult with your school counselors or teachers to get advice on academic and career planning. Additionally, seek guidance from mentors or professionals in your field of interest.
Stay informed about industry trends: Keep yourself updated on the latest developments and trends in your chosen industry. Subscribe to relevant publications, follow industry leaders on social media, and join online forums related to your field.
Develop a positive online presence: Be mindful of your online presence, as employers and educational institutions often review applicants' social media profiles. Use social media to showcase your skills and interests in a positive light.
Remember that career preparation is an ongoing process, and it's okay to explore different options as a teenager. Be open to new experiences, seek out opportunities, and continue learning and growing as you work towards your career aspirations.
Keyston Rice
Supervisor
180
Answers
Lawrence, IN
Updated
Keyston’s Answer
As a teenager, I'd recommend focusing on developing practical skills like problem-solving and communication. Engage in activities like volunteering, part-time jobs, or apprenticeships to gain hands-on experience. When applying for a career position, emphasize your work ethic, reliability, and any relevant skills you've acquired along the way.