Summer Job-Seeking Program Ideas for Teens

With the shrinking availability of summer jobs and funding for teen employment programs, the challenges faced by first-time job-seekers have become increasingly daunting.  Workshops on resume-writing or interviewing are a great idea.  However, many teens may not know the first thing about conducting a web search for job openings which match their qualifications. Try one or two of these program ideas to help young job-seekers get a jump start on finding summer positions.

• To help teens locate appropriate job listings, consider creating brightly-colored cards with useful weblinks and place them by computers during after school hours. 
• Hold a program, inviting currently employed teen panelists to share their work and job-seeking experiences with other young adults. 
• Create a bulletin board at your library, featuring available career resources, as well as alternative money-making ideas for teens, such as babysitting, lawn-mowing, car-washing, house-cleaning, etc.
• Encourage teens to consider summer volunteer opportunities in the area to build skills and experience.  Serve Philadelphia is a great new resource provided by the city of Philadelphia for individuals seeking volunteer positions. Allows user to filter search by age group (ex. "ideal for": children, teens, senior citizens, etc.) 
• Hold a technology program, and show teens how to use MS Publisher to create a simple flyer or brochure for a proposed small summer business idea. 
• Tweens and teens alike may enjoy sites like Bureau of Labor Statistics Career Information which help them zero in on career interests and strengths. 

National websites featuring resources and employment opportunities for teenagers

Teens4Hire - Contains numerous job listings, articles featuring job-seeking advice for teens, as well as information on work permits and labor laws. Requires users to establish a free membership profile.   

Quintessential Careers - Links to a multitude of career resources and job databases for student job-seekers.

Summer Jobs - Search for jobs by keyword and/or region. No registration required.

Cool Works - Features seasonal jobs, and jobs specifically for teens. No registration required. Allows users to subscribe via RSS.