You’re a Teen. What’s So Cool About Having a Job?

There are three answers: swag, swag, and more swag. What’s swag? It's goodies, stuff, loot, spoils, profits, or, as pirates used to say, "booty." (No, not that kind!)

Pirate swag was come by illegally (they stole it). But in the context of your job, swag can mean stuff that you get for making an honest effort. Because it’s a big part of having a job, let's talk swag!

Your First Job
Do you nod off when your parents and teachers talk about your "few-cher"? Well, wake up, 'cause your job and the task of finding it can be a really cool adventure.
Your first job is an important step, there's no denying it. It's your official introduction to the world of responsibility. When you sign up for a position, you essentially agree to:
1. Show up on time.
2. Keep commitments.
3. Be honest.
4. Dress appropriately.
5. Make your best effort at performing the job.

Here's the cool part: The better you are at doing those five things, the more swag (money and perks) you walk away with. That can be an awesome experience, especially if you enjoy the job. And why work at a job you hate?

Before you plunge headlong into your job search, let's do a reality check to be sure you really want a job. Take a stab at this quiz and see what it tells you.

Do You Really Want a Job?
1. Does the idea of having a wad of bills in your fist make you do an ecstatic 360?
2. Do you want a sure-fire excuse to get away from your parents for a few hours?
3. Are your friends all getting summer jobs while you haven't thought past what your next text message will be?
4. Do you wish you could get paid to do something you already love to do?
5. Do you quake at the thought of not being able to afford to buy a car, much less pay for the insurance on it?
6. Do you feel that your talents are often under-appreciated and you want a chance to prove how good you are?
7. Do you ever imagine what good things your first employer will say about you when you apply for your next job?
8. Do you have a vague idea of what you might like to do in the future and would you like a way to test it out?
9. Wouldn't you feel kind of proud to be able to grumble to your friends that you have to be at work?

If the answer to any or all of the above is "Duh," then you’re ready to go get your first job! For help in making that step, check out Teen Jobs by Allison Doyle for the nuts and bolts of how and where to look for a job you’ll like.