Summertime means vacation employment for many teens. For some, it will be their first experience in the world of work. Whether they will be lifeguarding, waiting tables, or working at a daycamp, teens can learn valuable skills while they earn extra money. This is the perfect opportunity to discuss and encourage positive work habits in your kids.
Punctuality and dependability. The responsibility of a job means being there when you’re scheduled to be there, and being on time. The lure of other activities and opportunities can compete with this: kids need to realize that a swim party or picnic needs to take a backseat to their work responsibilities. Likewise, teens need to be prompt. Start times are not flexible, even for those who may have stayed out too late the night before and would prefer to sleep. This is the perfect opportunity to help kids learn to manage their time wisely.
Working as a team. Most jobs require some level of cooperation. For many kids, this will be one of their first times in a situation where they will be working side by side not only with other teens their age, but with adults as well. They will also be working with people of different backgrounds and abilities, and will need to use their interpersonal skills to get along with their co-workers. Kids who are used to being leaders or doing things “their way” may have to adapt to following strict routines or considering others’ points of view. It’s great preparation for future positions where they will be expected to do the same.
Working with the public. Most teens who work are involved in jobs that require some level of customer service. Kids will need to learn how to interact with and be helpful to all kinds of people. Especially challenging: being patient and respectful to customers who do not treat employees the same way. Teens may need to bite their tongues and smile pleasantly despite less than polite treatment.
Professional dress. Most workplaces have some sort of dress code, especially those that revolve around food service. In most cases, teens will probably need to dress in a way that reflects positively on the business. They may need to remove jewelry from body piercings or cover up conspicuous tattoos. Likewise, edgy attire or accessories may be out except for certain jobs. Teens may protest, but these expectations are representative of what they will experience in the adult job market, as well.
Professional behavior. Maturity, integrity, self-discipline, and honesty. Employees demand that workers conduct themselves in ways that reflect positively on their business. This includes behavior or speech that would be offensive or inappropriate in the workplace. It also means recognizing that one’s primary purpose at a job is to work, not to socialize.
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