Should I get a job?

Question

Hi, I am 16 years old. I really want some extra cash...But I'm a little weary as getting a formal job goes.

I'm starting to desire more things like a cell phone/service, money to go out with/do more fun stuff with friends, and to start saving more for college and a car. I know I can't always ask on my parents for this stuff because we are not wealthy, we are bottom middle class.

I wouldn't mind getting a job... But I do sports. I have Fall cross country coming up, and there are races on Saturdays. No sports in the winter, but Track in the spring. Would sports interfere with me working? Would my employer (Price Chopper Grocery Store is where I think I might work) understand I do sports, and let me continue doing them?

I am also very shy. I'm scared I won't fit in I guess, and have a bit of a speech impediment. ...I want to be a cashier.

Is 15 hours/week reasonable for my situation?

Should I even get a job at all?

Any help/advice/suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you!

I do have a paper route and I do walk a dog...
But lately, it just doesn't seem to be cutting it.

I do make about $100-$150/Month.
But... I guess I'm greedy for wanting more?

I do have to pay for my own haircuts, my own school supplies, and anything extra I might need (Like acne wash and contacts).

I can't really mow lawns or babysit... Unfortunately.

Answer 1

If you got a job then yes, you could buy things you desire, but there will always be things you desire. You don't need them now. It sounds like you should just enjoy being young and doing sports, hanging out with friends. I'm 16 and don't have a job- I can live without material items if it means prolonging the only part of my life where I don't have to work. We are free! Don't throw it away!
And not all employers understand about things you do outside of your job, it depends on the person and the job.
Hope I helped!

Answer 2

You sound like a very responsible young man. Any business would be glad to have you. If you are concerned about your schedule, you could try looking for an informal job. Could you pet sit or house sit for the neighbors? I also think that other posters provided good ideas, such as doing lawn care. If you do this, you can set your own schedule and hours of availability.

Of course, if you want to get a formal job, most employers will recognize that because you're a high school student, you can only work part time. My brother played sports in high school, and he still managed to work at Food Lion.

If you're worried about your shyness, however, you might want to choose a more low-key, less fast paced environment that will work with your personality. Food service can be pretty hectic, especially for someone who's never had a job before. Have you considered trying a coffee shop or bookstore? These are usually very relaxed atmospheres, and would give you a great, safe place to practice your social skills so you can become less shy. Good luck!

Answer 3

Yes & No. You should ask your parents for chores around the house/yard or even the neighborhood. Try to find an "unofficial" job, such as mowing lawns, washing cars, babysitting weekends, raking leaves, helping old people take their trash cans in/out on trash day...one of these things. It will give you the flexibility to work at your own schedule, continue with your activities, and earn a little extra cash. Or you can barter with your parents, tell them you pick up a chore or too if they can add you onto a family share phone plan...all the major cell phone carriers have them, and they're affordable.

Answer 4

be upfront when you apply stating your activities -and your hours of availability.

Don't worry about being shy - it really doesn't matter.

Trying to fit in? My guess is you don't need a phone etc.. but like so many people your age it is something.

It's work - you'll have time - but it is likely largely dead time - you'll likely meet a few people and there could be other younger people working there - it's money. I pized most of my money away on partying and other cr4p.


Get Certifications and study and apply for government sponsered programs - if you get a job offer from someone at a good pay rate that is another story.

I wouldn't do it - but it may be good for you.
I was forced to start working - and it was the worst forced mistake of my life or maybe the third worst.

Answer 5

YEa get a job hommie it will help u out. with ur money. it will give u something to do. U will fill more like somebody becuse u have responsibilites Ya know Its the start of taking care of something besides ur own stuff. Shu just follow the rules of the job and u will be Ok. O yea that dude that said
get unemployment like him the first person that answered ur question tell that person to get off there computer because they r not smart at all. u cant get unemployment checks unless u been working.

Answer 6

Well if you have trouble finding one, consider this option:

Join Treasure Trooper! It's basically a GPT (get-paid-to) website that pays it's members for completing surveys and doing offers. It's really great for some extra cash ... I've made about $75 in like 3 days i know its not a lot but it adds up =) they pay you via check at end of month its not a scam or anything either ^.^

If interested, click: http://www.treasuretrooper.com/297273

You could become my referral and I'll try to help you as much as I can! =D

Thanks for reading and good luck with your job...maybe join this website too?

well bye

Answer 7

If and when you go to an interview you should be upfront aabout your situation but still be proffesional when you tell them your needs. Let them know that you are very active if athletics at your school and that will be your 1st priority, then ask if they would be willing to work around your schedule. Most entry level positions will and it will show them at you are an honest person who has goals and value's. Good luck!

Answer 8

no but you can always volunteer to babysit or help around the house for extra cash. A prepaid cell phone with no commitment may be good for you.

Answer 9

well duuuhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!! u gotta learn sumtime, mommie, n daddie ain't gonna b around 4eva n u gotta take up 4 urself den. plus u 16 now, it's time 4 u 2 start thinkin bout ur future. n they do have jobs wur u can set yo own hrs. n they have part time jobs 2. plus u a teen dealin wit sports, n skool, den they can only give uy certain hrs. n days 2 work. so good luck!!!!!

Answer 10

Since you won't be chained in irons to anything, why not just get the job and - if it doesn't work out for you - just quit? Give it a go!