it's really difficult to get a job. I thankfully just found one with Subway
No way. I worked part time at a Subway through all of 11th and 12th grade.
Nice to meet you, fellow sandwich artist! Haha
My advice for getting a job as a teenager is this:
1) When applying, don't be too specific about the hours you are able to work. Most restaurants and retail stores higher teenagers for two reasons - flexible hours and low pay. If you're going to school at the same time, writing down hours like
"5pm to close" on your application is much better than, say,
"5:30pm to 10pm". If you're not going to school, writing something like
"Any to Any" is really the best thing to do.
2) To increase your chances of getting a retail/restaurant interview in the first place, perform the "double-check" (No... I am not making an Aaron Rodgers reference). A few days after applying for job, go into the place of business and ask for the manager. If he/she isn't available, ask when they will be, or get their number.
The next part is crucial.
You need to contact the manager and communicate something along the lines of, "Hello, my name is (name). I just wanted to let you know that I turned in an application for (position). I was wondering if you might have any questions regarding my application." Be polite, but clear.
I can almost guarantee the manager will respond with something like:
"Oh, okay. I'll take a look at your application again and maybe we can work something out."
That's all you have to do. After speaking with the manager, don't contact him/her again. The ball is now in their court, and what happens next is up to them. Now, you don't have to worry about it. If you are called with an interview, express gratitude and be there on time. If you can't make it, be completely honest, and ask if there's any other time it can take place.
If you are not called with an interview, it probably means they aren't currently hiring, or your available hours don't fit with what they need. Don't take it personally.
3) In the interview, make sure you let them know you really need the job. Some people might object to this, saying something like
"I don't want to seem too desperate", but honestly, I think a little desperation can go a long way with job interviews. It helps the boss realize that you will be committed and you won't slack off.
I understand my advice is rather wordy. However, I hope this helps you in some way or another. I will pray for you.
