1: Make your priorities
The first step in getting a job is to find one that works for your life. However, that can be challenging considering homework, sports, and after-school activities. For example, if you have a sport that practices after school, consider a job that primarily has closing shifts or only on weekends. If you have practice a couple of days a week, find a job that is flexible or has longer shifts. Another variable to consider is applying for a job you will succeed at and grow in, whether that is something in retail, food service, or something more independent, such as babysitting. Whatever job you apply for is also dependent on whether you can get there. If you have a license and a car, you have more options than someone younger who needs a ride to work. Not all aspects of a job are going to be in your favor; it is extremely hard to find a job that has the perfect schedule for you, a great hourly wage, a close distance to your house, etc., but it is important to know your priorities and find a job that can support them.
2: Make a resume
The second step in getting a job is to make a resume. Most jobs you would apply for in high school do not require a professional resume, but it is good to have one if someone requests one or to keep for your future. In Google Docs, you can find multiple resume templates in the template gallery, and there are also other templates on the internet that you can use. On a resume, it is crucial to include only concise, important information related to your work/volunteer experience and skills. Simple, effective resumes are statistically more likely to be considered over long, irrelevant ones. Once you have made a resume, you can continue to update it as you gain more experience.
3: Apply for various positions
The last step in getting a job is to apply. Find a couple of places you could work that fit your priorities, go on their website, and look for any information about working there. If they provide information about where to apply, follow the given directions and begin the application process. If there is no information on a website or social media about applying, you might need to go in person to ask if they are hiring or accepting applications. However, to do that, you will need references. References are trusted mentors who are often former managers, bosses, coaches, or teachers, to verify your abilities and skills to an interviewer. It is good to find two or three people to consider as references since interviewers will likely ask for their contact information at some point in the application process. After applying, you will typically wait a couple of weeks (maybe less, maybe more) before hearing back.
Below are links to websites that can provide additional information about getting a job!
13 Jobs for High Schoolers: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/jobs-for-high-school-students
6 Job Search Tips: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-find-jobs-as-highschooler
