What teenager doesn’t love money? They want name brand clothes and shoes, the newest video games, the latest technology, and to be able to hang out with their friends on the weekend. Teenagers are bombarded every day with fashion and celebrities on television and in movies. They want to be like their favorite celebrities, and unfortunately, that usually takes money.
Some teens, maybe with prodding from their parents, work for their money. This can help them become responsible young adults and learn at an early age what it’s like to manage finances. With advances in technology there are many ways for teens to make money. Teens no longer have to do the usual summer jobs like bagging groceries.
For example, those who love fashion can make money off of their clothes that they no longer want. They can set up an eBay account with their parents and sell their clothes online. They should also check to see if there is a store in their town that buys gently used trendy clothes. There are a number of consignment shops who will pay for name brand items. And the same goes for electronics and video games. Sell them online or use them to trade in for a new game without always having to pay full price.
Creative teens can also make money by putting videos on YouTube or building a website. These videos and sites can be about showing people a skill, such as putting on makeup, or instructions on how to complete all the levels on a video game. While they may not become the next YouTube sensation and see the money rolling in, it’s a good way to work on creative skills while having the potential to make a few bucks as a result.
Teens who want discounts on clothes can get a job in retail. There are many trendy stores that hire teens to work part time, especially in the summer and around the holidays. This can be great for teens who want to work around their peers and help them pick out clothes and most likely get a discount on the items where they work.
The summer time is really great for teens who are good swimmers. They can get jobs as lifeguards or help with local swimming classes. What better way to spend the summer than at the beach or in the pool, and getting paid for it?
Teens who don’t mind mowing the lawn or tackling other outdoor chores can start a landscaping business for the summer or find a local landscaping company that could use some help. If they are able to start their own small business from scratch, even if the money isn’t great, the experience will be incredibly valuable going forward.
Finally, there’s almost always opportunity in the food service industry. Line cooks, waiting tables, washing dishes, or delivering pizza is one way to get your foot in the door. It isn’t always glamorous work, but some of the best chefs and restaurant owners in the world got their humble beginnings scrubbing pots and pans.
Author: Jeremy Vohwinkle
My name is Jeremy Vohwinkle, and I’ve spent a number of years working in the finance industry providing financial advice to regular investors and those participating in employer-sponsored retirement plans.
