Boston Youth Zone

Job Tips For Boston Teens

Ages 13 & Up
You may also download the complete "Job Tips For Teens" guide, (in PDF format) Note: In order to view and print in PDF format, you must download and install the Adobe Acrobat Reader. utility. There are many things to keep in mind as you look for a job. In addition to money, a job or an internship can provide you with new skills and a chance to investigate careers you might be interested in pursuing. We have included advice for job seekers of all ages and resources to help you in your search. If you don’t have access to the internet at home, visit your local Boston Public Library or Youth Center with internet access.
Volunteer A volunteer position allows you to make a positive contribution to your community, gain valuable work experience, explore a field you know nothing about, gain leadership experience and make connections that might lead to paid positions. You can volunteer at a local youth center or with an organization that works for a cause you care about. Find volunteer opportunities: www.VolunteerSolutions.org, www.BostonCares.org Take advantage of programs that can teach you new skills Many art, music, athletic and peer leadership programs are free or have scholarships available and some of them even offer stipends. BPS Summer Stuff Newspaper: www.BostonPublicSchools.org/summer.asp Sign up for the Boston Youth Zone E-Newsletter: www.BostonYouthZone.com/contact Work for neighbors Babysit or offer to do yard work, shoveling or chores. Babysitting Tips: www.bostonyouthzone.com/myc Tell everyone you know that you want a job Parents, neighbors, friends and youthworkers and teachers may know about job opportunities. Create a resume A resume is an easy and organized way to present yourself to an employer. It tells the employer how to contact you, what prior jobs you’ve had, what special skills you have, volunteer and work experiences you’ve had and about your education. Teen Resume Guide: Step-by-step instructions and sample resumes, www.BostonYouthZone.com/myc
Ages 14 & Up
Note limitations on hours and places you can work MA Labor Laws: www.mass.gov/dos/youth/summary_of_laws.pdf Apply at local grocery stores Speak to the manager to inquire about openings. Look for a summer job in the winter or early spring ABCD Summerworks Program: You may be income eligible for a position at one of many ABCD work sites. 617-348- 6546, www.BostonABCD.org Talk to your PIC counselor If you go to a Boston Public School, you can see your career specialist for help with resume writing and interviewing, job placement and job shadowing. Private Industry Council: 617-524-9675, www.BostonPIC.org Get Working Papers When you find a job you will need to fill out the necessary paperwork. BPS Office of Unified Student Services: 617-635-8030, www.mass.gov/dos/youth/employment_permit_application_1415.pdf
Ages 15-17
Register for the HOPELINE To get a summer job through the Boston Youth Fund, you must register and get a tracking number during specific dates in February. If you have a specific interest, call BYF to inquire about specific types of sites. Boston Youth Fund: 617-635-4202, www.bostonyouthzone.com Explore expanded retail and restaurant opportunities Check out Summer camps that may be hiring counselors. Take a CPR or Lifesavers Course Positions working with young children or in camps frequently require CPR or Lifesaver Certification. www.bostonredcross.org Work for the Department of Conservation and Recreation: www.mass.gov/dcr/employment Try to find work that gives you experience related to your career goals Boston Bar Association, INROADS, Boston Photo Collaborative, Judicial Youth Corps & BAHEC
HOPELINE REGISTRATION
To get a summer job through the Boston Youth Fund, you must register and get a tracking number during February School Vacation. If you have a specific interest, call BYF to inquire about specific types of sites. Boston Youth Fund: 617-635-4202, www.bostonyouthzone.com/employment/byf
Ages 18 & Up
Call Temporary/Placement agencies Visit a one-stop career center Numerous employment assistance programs for jobseekers including career counseling, job skills coaching, networking groups and job seaching strategies. Boston Career Link: 617-536-1888, www.bostoncareerlink.org JobNet: 617-383-0809, www.jobnetboston.org The Work Place: 617-737-0093, www.theworkplace.org Call past employers They may have positions available or refer you to other jobs. Check out work-study, co-op and internship programs Search employment web sites and want ads www.Monster.com, www.HotJobs.com, www.BostonWorks.com, www.Idealist.org
Getting & Keeping A Job
In the interview Be courteous and polite to everyone you meet Dress neatly and appropriately. Make sure your availability matches the job requirements. Be prepared to tell them what hours and days you are available to work. Be upfront about your schedule. Bring a copy of your resume Bring a fact sheet for yourself to make it easier to complete an application, include: your education, experience, social security number, and references contact information. Make sure that anyone you list as a reference knows ahead of time that you are giving their name. GO ALONE! Don’t bring friends or family to an interview with you. Be on time or a little early. Ask the interviewer questions about exact job requirements, hours and wage. When you get the job Be on time and call if you will be late or sick Be polite and courteous at all times Ask your supervisor for help if you have questions
Have Questions of Need More Information?
available on the Mayor's Youth Council web site www.bostonyouthzone.com/myc

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