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Know Yourself

Think about what you like to do, what you're good at, what's important to you, and what kind of person you are. Knowing these things helps you find a job you might really love!

Explore and Ask Around!

• Talk to your school counselor, teachers, family, and other grown-ups about jobs that sound interesting to you.
• Ask your school's College and Career helper about ways to learn about different jobs.
• Take fun quizzes that can help you see what jobs might fit your interests or personality.
• Look up jobs online and in books at the Career Center.
• Take high school classes that can help you with your job ideas.
• If your dream job needs more schooling, start planning for college or special training after high school.
• Join school clubs, sports, or groups outside of school to learn new skills.
• Get a part-time job to learn how to work and be part of a team.

Finding a Job

Before you start looking, think about what kind of work you like. Do you love animals? Are you good with kids? Many places hire teens, like animal shelters, the YMCA, fast-food restaurants, stores, libraries, and summer camps.

Where to Look for Jobs

Ask around at places you like, talk to friends and family, and check websites like Irvine Youth Employment Services (iYES) or the California State Employment Development (EDD) websites. Be careful with job listings you see online; always try to check if they are real and safe.

Your First Job List

To get a job, you'll need to make a resume, fill out an application, do an interview, and get a work permit.

• Resume Tips: Your resume is like your personal advertisement. It shows off your best skills and what you've done. Always be honest, ask someone to read it over for you, make it neat, check for any mistakes, and ask a teacher or coach if they can be a reference (someone who can tell a boss you're a good worker).
• Online Portfolio (e-portfolio): You can make your own website to show off your projects, volunteer work, and experiences. Keep it about your work and skills – no family photos or pet pictures!
• Cover Letter Tips: This is a letter that goes with your resume. Make it special for each job you apply for. In it, say what job you want, what skills you have, when you can start working, and how the boss can reach you.
• Job Application Tips: Read the whole application first. Use the information from your resume to help you fill it out. Practice answering any tricky questions. If it's on paper, use black ink. Answer all questions (if a question doesn't apply to you, you can write "N/A"). Always check for spelling and grammar mistakes!
• Interview Tips: When you go for an interview, bring extra copies of your resume. Try to stay calm. Listen carefully to the questions. Answer honestly and give examples of things you've done. Talk about your good points. Be polite and don't say bad things about old bosses or teachers. Ask questions about the job (but don't ask about how much money you'll make yet!). Ask when you'll hear back about the job. Thank them for their time.
• After the Interview: Think about what went well and what you could do better next time. Send anything they asked for. Send a thank-you note or email the next day to the person who interviewed you.

Work Permits

If you are under 18 in California, you need a special paper called a work permit. Your school's work experience person can help you get one. There are rules about how many hours you can work based on your age.

Your Rights

Talk to your family about working. There are rules to help keep young workers safe. If you have problems at work, talk to the person at school who helped you get your work permit. It's against the law for your boss to fire you for telling someone about a problem.

Summer is a great time to try out different jobs, volunteer, take special classes like ROP, and save money. Start looking for summer opportunities early! These experiences can also help you get into college later.