I'm 14, Should I Get A Job?

Is Getting A Job Valuable?

If you are 14 you may wondering whether or not you should get a job...

On one hand, you are still young and may not want to jump right into the workforce. On the other hand, you do want to learn great working habits at a young age, and have some pocket money to spend.

In my opinion, it is always beneficial to start working at a young age. You will learn responsibility and professionalism and set yourself up for a successful future. So, if I were to answer the question, I would say: yes! Go out and get a job!

How Do I Get The Job?
Now as a 14 year old, you will not be able to get a traditional job with most companies due to labor laws. However, you may be able to get "under the table" job. This includes job such as babysitting, lawn mowing, yard-work, house-sitting, etc.

Start by asking around your network of friends and family. Ask if anyone has any work they need. You will find that most people will be willing to help you out, and you can get started right away.

Once You Get The Job

Once you get the job, try your hardest to be responsible. Be on time, work hard, and always deliver results as you promise. You may make a few mistakes as you begin working, but you will find that if you focus on being the best you can be, you will begin learning valuable working skills at a young age.

How Much Should I Get Paid?

Since this will be your first step into the job world, you cannot expect to get paid a whole lot. However, you will find that there is possibility for a fairly substantial income, even with jobs as a 14 year old. For example, babysitting pays fairly well, roughly 10 to 20 dollars per hour. Lawn mowing is also not too shabby. The typical lawn mowing rate is around 20 to 30 dollars per lawn!

Why Do All This?

You may be wondering why you should jump into working at such a young age. You may think "shouldn't I milk not working as long as possible?"

Well, you certainly shouldn't be over working yourself, but with a little work you will find that you feel more satisfied with yourself, and that you feel very accomplished. This is a foundation that will help you for the rest of your life.

Oh, and you are getting some spending money too!

Good luck!

Visit Larkive for much more information on jobs for 14 year olds and other job searching tips.