Help Your Child Fill out Their First Job Application

When it comes time for your teenager to apply for a job, he or she may need some help and that is when you, the parent, can be of assistance. Whether it is filling out online job applications or driving them around town to apply.

Social Security Number will be Needed

To begin, your child may need to write his or her social security number on the job application. If your child doesn’t know where it is—due to moves or changes in your marital status– help your child to find it because it will be needed. A valid driver’s license or school ID card will also be needed. If your teenager doesn’t drive, a high school ID card will do. For teenagers who don’t drive, they will need a State ID card. The Department of Motor Vehicles can issue this card for your teen. Personal references will also be needed. The references should be teachers, neighbors, or parents of friends.

Emergency Numbers and Work Experience

Emergency numbers will also be required. Ensure that your teenager also puts down all the work experiences that he or she has accomplished. If there are no work experiences, have your teenager put down any volunteer work or apprentice type work that he or she has done. If possible, have your teenager fill out a practice application before doing the actual application. This will give your teenager some experience with applications before working on the real one. Also have your teenager put in a letter of recommendation. The majority of applications don’t require a letter of recommendation but a letter from a former teacher or pastor can help—especially with many still unemployed.

School Guidance Counselor Can Help

As a parent who is trying to help their child with the child’s first job application, the school’s Guidance Office or College Career Office can help. These professionals can give your child information on career options, job or internship opportunities, career planning assistance and tips on filling out job applications and interview tips. A Hollister application can be helpful when applying for a job.