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How do i start work at 13?

How do i start work at 13?

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Patricia (Riley)’s Answer

Hi Isaac, it is great that you are looking to work! One suggestion I have is to look at things you could do for your neighbors that would help them, and then offer them that service. Some ideas: Taking their garbage cans in/out weekly, raking or weeding, light chores such as helping someone organize a garage, babysitting or being a mother's helper, or pet-sitting are all things that you could do, depending on your interests and abilities. I would encourage you to introduce yourself to your neighbors with the permission and support of your parent/guardian, and to present yourself as confident (look them in the eye when speaking to them, offer a firm handshake) and capable. Good luck!
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Vipul’s Answer

Hi Isaac, love your passion to get out there and work. I believe the minimum age for formal employment is 14 (as indicated by the US Dept of Labor). Until then, you can consider paying neighborhood jobs like babysitting, landscaping, etc. Start by thinking through your skills, what are you good at or enjoy doing. Talk to your community members and see what help they need.
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Lauren’s Answer

I earned my first job when I was 14 working as a tutor at Kumon! I networked with my friends and other classmates to see if they knew of any jobs available in the area hiring 14-year-olds. I would try to find babysitting jobs or ask around your neighborhood to see if any people need help with chores. Best of luck!
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Connie’s Answer

I love this question! Like you, I couldn’t wait to start working and earning my own money and there is so much great advice here! Be on the lookout for where there is a need. There are often tasks the elderly need assistance with – chores, shopping, tech help, etc. (and the companionship is an added bonus 😊). The beginning of summer is also an excellent time to get the word out that you are available for pet and home care for those going away. (Also, if you’ve done any of the jobs mentioned here, make sure to get references/referrals! So important!)
Good luck!
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Charise’s Answer

Hi Issac,

When I was 13, I did a lot of babysitting. I also worked at my church during any summer programs they had like "Vacation Bible School". I even worked in a small local dress shop in the mall when I turned 14. If you aren't able to do those, there may be businesses you can create around your neighborhood like cutting grass, or watering lawns. I'm not sure if you are old enough to bag groceries, but it doesn't hurt to call and ask the hiring age at different stores. I hope this helps!
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Grace’s Answer

I would say to start looking locally. Often times, neighbors will allow you to do yard work or babysitting for them. Doing chores for neighbors is also a good option because you will not be taxed! Call around to different locally owned shops and see who would be willing to hire you. Target stores that you have an interest in, for example; if you have an interest in baking, call up the local cake shop! This could be a good way to explore your interests while also building up a savings.
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Gemma’s Answer

Hi there! Even though you're pretty young, it's worth checking out if local shops or restaurants are looking for help. In my view, going for a part-time job at a young age is a fantastic idea! It shows you're eager to take initiative and later on, it proves your ability to manage time well. Personally, I developed great communication skills, particularly when dealing with a variety of people.

Throughout high school, I worked at a neighborhood frozen yogurt store. To get this job, I just walked in and asked if they were hiring. I think this is the most effective way to find a job when you're young – stopping by local businesses and inquiring about open positions. It's also important to be honest during this process. For example, at my job, when other students came looking for work, I'd always ask if they were willing to work evenings and weekends since those were the main shifts. Be sure to be clear about when you can work. You're young, so it might be a bit tougher for you, but grocery stores and other local places might appreciate the extra help. Just be aware that there are specific labor laws in NJ for workers under 16, so some places might try to limit younger employees.

To this day, I still look back on my experience at that job, so I truly think getting a job is an amazing chance for you to learn and find out what kind of work setting suits you best (and also earn some cash for yourself or your family). Plus, when I help with hiring and college admissions, I notice that having a part-time (or full-time) job on your resume really stands out. My sister worked at the local HomeGoods, and my friend at a nearby grocery store, and both of them said their experiences were mentioned during later internship or job interviews, focusing on the skills they gained.

Best of luck in your job hunt!
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Christina’s Answer

If your parents are willing to take you, you can open a craft booth at the farmer's market or other local marketplaces. Your parents will have to signing up for the booth or you can partner with an existing booth there. But if you like to create art, paintings, making baked goods, if you're good at getting seedlings to grow, or if you set up a worm farm, these are things that community values and... I'm always a sucker for the entrepreneurial minded teens I see there.

Other options are reselling thrifted items from goodwill or consignment shops online. It works if you have an eye for collectibles.

Other online store setups could be creating clothes or backgrounds for games that you play and posting them in the game store.

You can start a blog on something that you are interested in. Connect it to Google Adsense. After a few months of consistent writing. Hopefully, you can have revenue. One of my favorite YouTube channel is on 3D printer reviews by a preteen. She is very detailed. Her channel is Aurora Tech.

Be sure to work with parents on their level of comfort with any online businesses. But if you can find a compromise, it could be a good option.
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Beth A.’s Answer

Hey Isaac! It's awesome to see how motivated and ready to work you are. When I was your age, I looked after the kids in my neighborhood, mowed lawns, and even ironed linens for a neighbor (that was a unique task!). I also talked to my parents about what kind of jobs I could look for. They gave me some fantastic ideas about what our neighbors needed, and it turned into situations where we all helped each other out. Best of luck with finding a job!
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Caira’s Answer

Hi! great question and I think you can get great and fun work experience at your age. I would consider looking into volunteer opportunities at places you like to go with friends or family or at places that do something you're interested in. Beyond that, look for ways to help out in your neighborhood or community- maybe it's a Saturday snack route around your neighborhood for the kids or helping mow your neighbors' lawns. I think you can also ask friends' parents or family members if you could shadow them at work- depending on their work environment and policies, it might be a super fun way for you to see the day to day of a wide variety of jobs. Best of Luck!
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Aparna’s Answer

Hey, it's truly an admirable choice to start working at the age of 13! You might not find a ton of options, but you can try babysitting, explore volunteer opportunities, and even see if you're allowed to work at a grocery store. This experience will be valuable for future internships. Wishing you the best of luck!
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