Getting Those Qualifications

You may find that when looking for anything other than the typical teen jobs, you fall a little short in the "qualifications" department. It can be tough when all of the really interesting jobs require you to have years of experience or a college degree. Unfortunately, there are some things that only time can fix. In other cases, however, you can take steps to improve your job qualifications.

First of all, remember that most teen jobs are really a stepping stone to something else in life. Working as a busboy or a valet driver might not seem very glamorous, but it is preparing you for the next thing. Theoretically speaking, that next thing is going to be at least one step above the typical teen jobs you started out with. This is because you "paid your dues" in that first position in order to be ready to take on something bigger and better.

There are, however, some steps you can take to help speed up the rate at which you gain some of the necessary job qualifications that will move you beyond the world of stereotypical teen jobs. One of the most interesting ways is to take a class. You could start out by taking something offered at your high school, or you could step way out of your comfort zone and try taking a class at the local community college. Many of these schools offer night classes, so you could attend while still going to your regular classes. In as little as one quarter you will have some good qualifications to put on your resume.

Volunteerism is another great way to build up your qualifications. If there's something you're especially interested in doing, there's a good chance that some nonprofit organization would be thrilled to have you do it for them. Like computers? Offer to help the local food bank defrag all of their machines. They'll be amazed at how fast their computers get, and you'll be able to put "computer support" on the next job application you complete.

It can be frustrating to discover that you don't fit the qualifications of the jobs you most want, but don't let that stop you. With some creative thinking and a little time, you can raise yourself far above the level expected for typical teen jobs and chase down some of the more exciting work opportunities in your community.

Author: Barry Mcgee
Jobs For Teens provides teenagers and students with the information, advice and tools they need to succeed in finding the job of their choice.