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What type of job should I get at 14? ?

I'm 14 and want to have a good job that I can work in summer easily as a first timer. Any suggestions as to what type?

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Myles’s Answer

Great question and it's wonderful to hear of your ambition to pursue your first Summer job. Echoing some of the other answers, I recommend focusing on independent service focused jobs such as pet sitting, dog walking, babysitting, tutoring, and yard care. Speaking from personal experience, for the Summers I was 13 and 14, I established regular lawn mowing customers of which I had close to 10 by the time I finished my second year. Once I was 15, I was able to start my first "real" job in retail as a courtesy clerk at a local grocery store. Once you are 15 or 16, your opportunities open quite substantially to a number of industries and first jobs such as in retail, fast food an restaurants, banking, and delivery services to name a few. Most importantly, and to the degree you're able, I recommend focusing on industries and jobs you have even a slightest interest in, even more so ideally where you may see yourself possibly growing into a career longer term (if desired). An example might be if you're interested in retail, start your first job as a clerk or cashier at a regional or national grocery chain, work your way through college while simultaneously building experience in the industry and company, to then once graduated, potentially look to move into the company's corporate office roles such as in Marketing, HR, IT, etc.

Wishing you the best of luck!
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Maddy’s Answer

Hi Swann - there are many great options for first jobs! Although not all employers will accept employees at age 14, it's worth looking into all your options. Some suggestions:

1. Food service/restaurant: you mentioned you wanted a summer job so a good option to start here could be an ice cream shop (some places only look for seasonal workers if that's what you'd prefer). A lot of restaurants look for young employees to start as cashiers, busers, or stock workers and work there way up as they get older.
2. Babysitting: this is a great way to have a flexible schedule while also making money. Reach out to people you know that have young kids to see if they need a babysitter, you never know who may need one!
3. Dog walking or pet sitting: another great way to make some extra money. See if neighbors or friends need extra help with their pets! Especially in the summer, a lot of families go on vacation and will be looking for someone to take care of their animals.

I hope these suggestions help get you started on your job search! Good luck!
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Aisha’s Answer

Hi Swann,

Being 14 is a great age to start exploring the world of work, especially during the summer! Here are some job ideas that are perfect for a young person like you:

1. **Retail or Grocery Store Team Member:** A lot of retail and grocery stores love to hire young people like you for roles such as cashier, stock clerk, or customer service helper.

2. **Food Service Helper:** Many restaurants, cafes, and fast-food places often welcome teenagers to join their team. You could be a server, host, or even help in the kitchen.

3. **Lifeguard:** If you're good at swimming and have completed lifeguard training, you could spend your summer at a local pool or beach, keeping people safe.

4. **Camp Counselor:** Summer camps for kids often need camp counselors. This is a fun job where you can enjoy outdoor activities and guide younger kids.

5. **Tutor or Babysitter:** If you're good at certain subjects or enjoy looking after younger kids, you could become a tutor or babysitter for families in your area.

6. **Landscaping or Lawn Care Helper:** Why not help neighbors or local landscaping companies with yard work, gardening, or lawn care?

7. **Pet Sitter or Dog Walker:** If you love animals, you could offer pet sitting or dog walking services in your neighborhood.

8. **Junior Counselor at Recreation Programs:** Your local parks and recreation department might have summer programs for kids where you could be a junior counselor or assistant.

Remember, these are just a few ideas to get you thinking. When you're looking for a job at your age, it's important to think about what you enjoy, what you're good at, and when you're available. Also, don't forget to check any rules about the kind of work you can do at your age.
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Lyndsey’s Answer

Hey there, Swann!

Why not take a look around your local area to see what kind of jobs are up for grabs for someone your age? While it's true that some places prefer slightly older employees, there are definitely jobs out there that would be happy to have you on board with a work permit.

Here are a few job ideas that are typically open to younger folks like you:
1 - Babysitting
2 - Working at a fast food joint
3 - Helping out on a farm
4 - Walking or looking after dogs

Remember, at your age, it's all about finding something you enjoy and are good at. There's no need to stress about a career just yet. So go ahead and pick something that sounds like fun to you!
Thank you comment icon Thank you, those are some really easy ones Swann
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Pranathi’s Answer

There are several options for you to work in the summer:

As few that i am sure you are aware of:
1. Babysitting
2. Pet sitting


Some interesting options:
1. National parks have a paid program that students can work in. It is called the "Pathways programs" - https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/pathways.htm. Check this out!
2. Freelance for any jobs you are interested in doing/ are good at - https://www.fiverr.com/
3. A list of summer side hustles you can look into - https://greenlight.com/blog/summer-side-hustles-for-all-ages
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Deborah’s Answer

Hi Swann,
Child labor laws may prevent you from many mainstream jobs so you will need to be creative in finding work. I would ask what your motivation is for finding a job at age 14?
Without knowing your motivation or circumstances, I would encourage you to enjoy being young while you can (I know this is not advice I wanted to hear at the same age).
What are you interested in? What are your talents?
Some ideas for ways to earning money would be to find the needs around you - babysitting, mowing or weeding yards, washing cars, pressure washing driveways, or pet sitting/ dog walking are some typical odd jobs. When I was 14, I was a teacher's aid at my Sunday School.
If you are looking for experience, more than money, you might consider volunteering with charitable organizations that support causes that are meaningful to you. This is a great way to make connections and grow your skills, while giving back in your community.
I hope this is helpful to you,
Deborah
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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Swann !

If you want an awesome first employment experience, you need to look no further than in your own beautiful county ! Your county offers a Youth Employment Program and that may just be what you're looking for in a first time job experience ! They are taking applications now from applicants ages 14 to 24. It is a wonderful experience at which you will obtain training and meet new people.

I would advise applying right away and I think it would also be helpful to call the Rockland County Youth Bureau at (845) 364-2929. They are located in Pomona. My advice ? Do it today. The Rockland County Youth Employment Program (YEP), including T.E.E.N. Works, and the Rockland Conservation & Service Corps are the two direct service programs offered by the Youth Bureau.

For some great services and programs for teens, you can also ask the Youth Bureau about their Youth Fest and ask when the next one will be held. They usually have fun performances and interactive demos.

Something else to become familiar with for maybe the future, unless you meet the age requirement now, is Rockland Works, from the Workforce Development Board of Rockland County. Go to some of their scheduled events. I have left a link below of their schedule. There's even an event that will be beneficial in creating your very first resume.

I hope that this has been helpful and I wish you all the best.

Michelle recommends the following next steps:

ROCKLAND YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM https://www.rocklandcountyny.gov/departments/youth-bureau
APPLICATION FOR YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.rocklandcountyny.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/4277/638429121354030000
ROCKLAND YOUTH FEST https://www.rocklandcountyny.gov/departments/youth-bureau/youthfest
ROCKLAND WORKS https://rocklandworks.org/youth-connections/
ROCKLAND WORKS EVENTS https://rocklandworks.org/events/
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Maryann’s Answer

Hey Swann, it's truly inspiring to see you, at just 14, already eager to step into the working world! When I was your age, I too started my first job in NYC, and I can already sense that same determination in you that will undoubtedly lead you to incredible achievements in life. I'm proud of you!

The first step I'd recommend is securing the necessary legal work papers that permit you to work. Your school should be able to guide you on how to initiate this process. Once you've got these in hand, you can begin your job hunt in your local area, focusing on places that are known to employ younger individuals. Take a stroll around your neighborhood and do a bit of investigating. Spot any peers working or simply ask around at local businesses if they're hiring or could use an extra hand. Consider what you love doing.

- If you enjoy being around kids, why not kickstart a babysitting venture?
- If sports are your thing, check if your local rec center needs student assistants for junior coaching!
- If you're a fan of ice cream or pizza, local eateries are often on the lookout for community members to lend a hand.

Remember, the world is your playground, seize every opportunity!

Experiment with various jobs. This will help you discover what you truly love doing and what you'd rather avoid. These life lessons will be invaluable for your future, providing you with a wealth of experience in teamwork. Wishing you nothing but success!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Swann,

Embarking on Your First Job Journey at 14

As a 14-year-old, a world of rewarding and enjoyable job opportunities awaits you. Here are some practical options to consider:

Child Care Services

Babysitting is a common and flexible job choice for 14-year-olds, providing valuable experience in child care. To find babysitting opportunities, reach out to relatives, friends, and neighbors, or sign up with a local babysitting agency.

Outdoor Maintenance Work

If the great outdoors appeals to you, consider offering lawn mowing and yard work services to your community. This is a fantastic way to make money during the summertime while also getting some exercise.

Customer Service Roles

Certain retail and food service businesses may employ 14-year-olds for part-time positions. Potential workplaces could be grocery stores, fast food outlets, and ice cream parlors. However, remember to review state and local laws concerning minor employment before you apply.

Academic Tutoring

If you're particularly strong in a subject, think about providing tutoring services to younger students. This is an excellent way to monetize your knowledge and skills.

Home Assistance and Errand Running

Consider offering assistance with household chores and errands to busy families in your area. Tasks could include dog walking, pet sitting, grocery shopping, or house cleaning.

Key Points to Remember

When seeking your first job at 14, keep your availability, interests, and skills in mind. Also, be aware of any state or local laws regarding minor employment. Engage your parents or guardians in discussions about your job prospects and seek their advice and support during your job hunt.

Recommended Reading
“Child Labor Bulletin: Working Teens Fact Sheet” by the United States Department of Labor
“First Jobs: A Guide for Teens” by Scholastic Inc.
“The Parent’s Guide to Teen Employment” by the American Academy of Pediatrics

May God Bless You!
James Constantine Frangos.
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Fatima’s Answer

Working in a cafe or a restaurant is a great career to start in. You will learn lots of life skills - communication skills, dealing with customers, resilience, working with a team etc.. All of these are great transferable skills that will serve you well in your future career. Plus, there is often lots of jobs available for a good waiter/waitress. Once you have some experience, you will be able to add this to your CV/resume.
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Belinda’s Answer

Hey Swann! It's fantastic to see you considering a summer job, and it's even more impressive that you're planning ahead since many summer jobs start hiring early. There's a world of opportunities out there for summer jobs, so take some time to reflect on what you enjoy doing now, or what you might be interested in doing in the future. Here are some popular choices for people your age:

1. Retail or food service: Many retail outlets or fast-food joints often hire young people, sometimes as young as 14, for roles like cashier, stock clerk, or server. Why not drop by some local businesses and see if they're recruiting and what their age requirements might be?

2. Babysitting: If you have a knack for getting along with kids, babysitting could be a perfect fit for you. Just remember to look into any local rules and requirements.

3. Pet sitting or dog walking: If you're a fan of our furry friends, you could provide pet sitting services or kickstart a dog walking venture right in your neighborhood.

4. Lawn mowing or gardening: You could offer to help out with lawn mowing, gardening, or yard cleanup for neighbors or local residents. There might even be opportunities at a nearby golf course?

5. Tutoring: If you're particularly good at a certain subject, why not offer tutoring services to younger students who could use a helping hand?

Wishing you the best of luck!
Thank you comment icon I never thought about being in a restaurant, but that would be really fun. Thank you so much! Swann
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