Career Tips for Teens

Finish high school — Nearly every job requires basic communication and math skills. Compared to workers at higher education levels, high school dropouts have more difficulty getting and keeping jobs. They also have lower earnings throughout their lives.

Consider continuing your education — The more education you get, the higher your earnings are likely to be. On average, high school graduates earn more than high school dropouts. Those who receive post secondary training earn more than high school dropouts and graduates.

Research career information — A small investment of your time will help you make an informed career choice that could pay dividends throughout your life. There are hundreds of occupations, so choosing and planning a career is a lot more complex than it may appear.

Plan your career — Seek out information about occupations with favorable career prospects, high earnings, and other attributes that are important to you. Having a solid career plan can affect your future prospects more than how much education you have.

Value your personal interests and abilities — You shouldn't be dissuaded from a career that interests you just because it's competitive. If your interests and abilities draw you to a field like acting, journalism, law, piloting, or some other competitive occupation—go for it. Just be prepared for the challenges.

Develop basic computer skills — Take advantage of every opportunity to acquire computer proficiency. Regardless of whether you continue your education beyond high school, chances are that you will need at least minimal computer skills to do your job.

Learn how to conduct a good job search and develop a resume — You will have to market your skills as you search for a job. Learning about resume preparation and job search techniques will help you. Workers average more than 8 different jobs by age 32, so prepare to change jobs—even careers—until you find the one that's right for you.

Gain experience early — Learning by doing is a great way to approach a prospective career. Internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work are some ways to get hands-on experience while still in school. Most employers value work-related experience.

Keep learning — Take every opportunity to learn new skills. The more you upgrade your skills, the more likely you—and your career—will adapt along with it.

Editorial provided by Jon Sargent, from the Occupational Outlook Quarterly, Summer 1999; U.S. Department of Labor.