Q&A for How to Get a Job when You're Only 16

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Should I use my school email or personal email to contact employers?

Melody Godfred, JD
Career Coach
Melody Godfred is a Career Coach, Entrepreneur, and Founder of Write In Color, a full-service resume and career development company that specializes in developing compelling personal narratives and brands. With over ten years of experience, Melody has worked with clients at entertainment and media companies including Apple, Disney, Fox, Netflix, Riot Games, Viacom, and Warner Bros, among others. The Muse invited Melody and Write In Color to serve as one of its 30 trusted career counselors (out of 3,000) to provide one-on-one coaching and resume services to the platform's more than four million active users. Melody earned a JD from Loyola Marymount University and BS from the University of Southern California.

Melody Godfred, JD

Career Coach

Expert Answer

I recommend using your personal email address. In most cases, that's the primary email address that you're checking and using all the time. Also, over time you will maintain control of it, unlike a school email address. You should also make sure that your email handle is something professional.

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Question

Is it possible to get a job at 16 years old, even if I have no previous work experience?

Community Answer

Yes. Everybody starts with no job experience, and places willing to hire teens understand that this will likely be their first job. You'll have to manage your expectations, however; entry-level jobs aren't glamorous.

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Question

Do some restaurants hire 16-year-olds?

Community Answer

Some do, yes. Call them them up and ask if they are hiring any positions for minors (dishwasher, busboy, etc.).

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Question

Do I need a cellphone to get a job at age 16 in Florida?

Community Answer

No, you do not need to have a cellphone to get a job.

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What is a good job search website for teens to use?

Community Answer

Snagajob.com is a very good website to find jobs for young people.

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Where can a 15 year old find employment?

Community Answer

Many states require workers to be at least 16. Younger people who want to work can often babysit, house-sit or walk dogs for extra cash.

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Question

Could I use a learner's permit as identification?

Community Answer

No. Most learner's permits are not valid ID for this use.

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Question

Can an international high school teenager apply for a job?

Community Answer

Most international students are on an F1 visa, and there is some allowance for work. Your best option to talk to someone at your school who is in charge or international students, or talk with someone at the place where your visa was issued to ask about work regulations.

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Question

Do you need a resume when starting out to apply for jobs?

Community Answer

Yes, presenting a resume is always a good idea. It shows the employer that you are serious about the job and that you can present yourself in an organized, professional manner.

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Question

Do you need a state-issued ID to work?

Community Answer

Yes, and you can get one at your local Department of Motor Vehicles.

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What are some good first time jobs for a 16 year old in California?

Community Answer

A lot of people in Cali are hiring in cafes and beach stands (selling hot dogs, beach-side games, etc). These jobs are very common and easy to do and require little to no experience. The pay isn't half bad as well.

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Do I need a resume to get a job with no experience as a 16-year-old?

Community Answer

It may not be necessary, but be sure to keep one available in case an employer asks for it. While you won't have any work experience to list, you can put down relevant club/organization membership, volunteer work and pertinent extracurricular activities.

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Question

How do I manage school with class events when I have a job?

Community Answer

Having a job while you're in school means having to carefully manage your time. Make schoolwork your priority, and realize that working means that there are school events that you'll have to sacrifice. Effective time management is an issue that plagues many adults, and the skills you gain now in achieving a balance will be a huge asset once you're out on your own.

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Question

Who should I ask at my school to help me make a resume, and get the paperwork?

Mzm555

Top Answerer

Your School's Careers Advisor or Year Level Coordinator would probably be your best bet, if you see them just give it a casual mention along the lines of "Hi Mr / Mrs .............. I'm looking to get a part time job sometime soon but I need some help making a resume. Could you help me anytime your'e free?" Alternatively, you could even ask your favorite teacher for their help or advice for making a resume too.

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