Valuing Our First Jobs, By Tina L.

Valuing Our First Jobs

Written By Tina L.

            Much has changed for teenagers and young adults in the past 25 years.  The size of cars, the cost of transportation, how we communicate, the size of our televisions, and the gadgetry in which we seek information, self entertain and connect to the global world.

What hasn’t changed is that at some point in our youthful lives, we embark on the journey of finding, keeping and leaving our first jobs.  This is an important stage in our life experience; appreciating and understanding the value of these “starter” jobs can be a positive resource to a better future. 

Interviewing and being offered your first job can be an exciting experience.  It can offer insight about your interests, skills, resources and abilities and how they relate in the marketplace. For example, a fashion conscious youth who loves wearing the latest trends and fashions might think that working in a clothing store is a good match.   This person might enjoy advising customers, helping with window displays and earning a sales commission.  However, this individual might also realize that a retail job might involve working inconvenient shifts, folding and hanging clothes, or tedious inventory processing.  First jobs or “Starter” jobs as I like to call them, are important because they allow first time employees valuable nuggets of information that offer personal growth. 

            Young people can use this information to seek better job matches with each successive job.  So whether your job is on a volunteer basis, seasonal summer work or fast food service, they can all be rewarding experiences that can positively affect your future. Don’t underestimate the value of volunteering for a not for profit organization. The experience can be extremely rewarding.  It is a great opportunity to learn new skills, provide needed resources and obtain worthy references.

Starter jobs are meaningful and important!  I still remember my first job as a gift wrapper.  The job paid decently, but I did not get to spend much time with other employees or customers.  However, I took my job seriously and received a good reference for the next job.  The next job suited me better.  I was a cashier at a movie theatre.  I got to talk to lots of customers as well as the other employees, many of who were in my peer group. Armed with the knowledge of my first job, I was able to improve my next job experience!

Whether it is your first or tenth job, put forth your best effort, give at least two weeks notice of leave, inquire about references and use this valuable knowledge to improve your personal and professional life outcomes!