Why don't businesses even give 14 year olds a shot?

Question

Where I live you have to be 14 to get a job. Only everywhere I look, on the application it says you must be over the age of 16. I know its because 16 year olds are "more mature and responsable"...But why don't they give some younger people a shot? Like if they have straight A's and have great references. I am way for responsible than any 16 year old I know.

*More responsible

Answer 1

You can't work the same hours or use some dangerous equipment. Hiring you might mean you can work less per night or per week or have to be home earier. Something like a drive in movie doesn't want employees that have to leave before the intermission. Why should they hire a person who is only allowed 2 hours when they can hire one that can work 3-4?
For now keep trying but try to do things that aren't regular jobs like babysitting and lawncare.

Answer 2

Oh Liz, (same name by the way), I feel for you. When I was 14 it was hard for me too. I was however able to find a job, here's some tips:

One-- there is the issue of Child Labor Laws, however they have special limited hour work permits in most states. You can get this through your school like I did. I think it's a requirement that you get it through your school. (I wish I knew what state you were in) but most states want your guidance counselor to sign off as approval. Because it's summertime don't give up check your local employment office and ask them if they will issue you one.

Two--Only certain INDUSTRIES will allow a 14 year old to work in their establishment. My first job at 14 was at a Small private owned supermarket. You do not want to apply for Fast Food jobs, that have a requirement of at least 16 or 17 they even prefer 18. This is because of the possible hazards of the job e.g. working with fire, stove, grease etc...They have to make one strict cut-off age and stick to it. Am sure you could do the job, but they can't make exceptions for some.

Together with your Work Permit, references and your "can do" attitude. Apply at local supermarkets (preferrably neighborhood ones), apply at a pet store, maybe a small bookstore in your neighborhood (not Barnes and Nobles or Borders). My point is your best bet at 14 is to apply at PRIVATE OWNED small businesses. They are more willing to take a chance and don't have a general rule set. They can hire who they want within the law.

Wal-mart, or other large companies have a general rule in place, and they are more systematic and will not make exceptions. These large companies (unlike small private owned businesses in your neighborhood) ,you must fill out an application at Wal-mart, they can't hire you on the spot, so there's no room for them to make exceptions.

Again, I don't know where you live but you can be creative and make up jobs, dog walker, babysitter, neighborhood lawn cleaner, make things to sell etc. Most people like to help someone with a "positive attitude", With your attitude I know you'll find a job, it just takes a little more work. A small private business even at a small local resturant, where you can do simple things, would love to hire you --------Good luck!

Answer 3

You're still a minor so there are labor laws that need to be adhered to. Simply put, a business knows that they cannot get as much productivity out of you as they would with an adult. Even at 16, they are restricted in what they can do.
It doesn't mean that you should give up trying to find work. I would start with local businesses first.

Do you have any coffeeshops, bookstores, or small mom&pop businesses in your area? These places tend to be flexible and will probably offer you a few hours a week. But don't expect office work or anything professional. Be prepared to sweep up, clean tables, etc.

Answer 4

I think its also because of legal restrictions, on the number of hours a 14 year old teen can work. Some grocery stores hire at 15 if you can wait until then. Maybe you could try babysitting. I know this isn't a "real" job, but its better than nothing. You could also volunteer somewhere to explore options for later.

Answer 5

its not that 16 year olds are considered "more mature and responsible" its just that there are laws against kids under 16 working, some businesses that are family owned will hire under 16, but some places that are chains such as target and walmart (you know those types of stores) will not becuase of the child labor laws. It stinks i know, but its also a part of life.

Answer 6

Free: Income From Home
Hello,
IN ANSWER TO YOUR QUESTION ABOUT you are looking for a job why don't you consider a totally free way to generate financial freedom while working from home which is not scam and you can be your own boss?
You NEED to check this one. Click on the link or copy and paste this long link into your browser window: http://www.mypowermall.com/Biz/Home/19719 You owe it to your self to take a free look at this great business opportunity.
To Your Success!
S.D.

Answer 7

For most buinesses any body under the age of 16 cannot be covered under their insurance therefore the won't hire anyone under that age. Also you need to have a work permit if you are under the age of 16.

Answer 8

r u sure your state law says 14 r does it say 14 with a workers permit and u can only work certain hours and a few hrs. with a permit, i dont think maturity has any thing to do with it it is just that with the permit there r a lot of guide lines the employer has to follow and xtra insurance he has to pay because of child labor laws

Answer 9

Because you should be doing other things in life than wasting your mind on such god-awful repetitive tasks. You will get there dont worry, when you hit yr 20s and you will pretty much spend yr rest of your life working and wish you are 14 again. Chill!

Answer 10

Child labor laws