Career Opportunities for Modern Teenagers

Tillie Mendoza, Staff Writer

As a teenager, having access to money is essential. It can open up the world of wise spending habits, money management skills, and savings for investments later in life. One of the most rewarding ways to learn this is through making your own money. The good news is there are many job opportunities open for teens that can be done even in the midst of school and other activities.

Dog walking:
Many pet owners are busy balancing virtual school or work during the day, and would definitely be willing to give up some money to have someone take their dog out for a walk. Ensuring the dog will get enough exercise comes with an added bonus, since it also gives a good excuse to get off of technology and go outside when the weather is nice.

Car washing:
Cleaning up cars is an easy and helpful way to earn some extra cash. It requires little spending since you will only have to pay for necessary tools, soap refills, and water usage. Washing the exterior of cars is the most common way to go about this job, however vacuuming and cleaning the interior is equally as simple and fulfilling.

Shoveling:
The recent cold weather and frequent snowfall has led to slippery sidewalks and hard to navigate driveways. Although these conditions can be somewhat of an inconvenience, they also open up opportunities to earn some money. If you are looking for a job that does not require year-round commitment, shoveling snow for a neighbor or family friend may be a good option.

House cleaning:
It is easy to forget how important completing everyday tasks are, and this includes keeping up a clean house. Performing common tasks such as sweeping and vacuuming, doing laundry, dusting, cleaning bathrooms, and even wiping down counters is an easy way to make money as a teenager. If you do not get any money for doing the chores in your own house, you can at least make it while helping out others.

Crafting:
A new trend of small businesses has been popping up on social media, and starting your own is a great way to make a profit, especially if you are creative or do not want to leave your house. Teens all over Tik Tok and Instagram have been able to sell their art, DIY beauty products, and almost anything else handmade you can think of. It is especially easy to be recognized by potential customers with an online platform. Redbubble is another good website for buying and selling crafts, and gives you an opportunity to design things like stickers and shirts without having to deal with any materials.

Influencer:
If you do not want to make any crafts but still like the idea of posting on social media, you may be interested in becoming an influencer. Your imagination is your only limit when it comes to the content you are able to create, and there are a number of ways to get paid, including partnering with brands or signing up for a creator fund.

Applying for a job:
If individual services are not quite your style or you are ready to write a resume, applying to work for a company may be more suited to you. The minimum working age in the state of Colorado is 14 years old, however the rules vary at different establishments.

Taking advantage of your abilities and interests to make your own money is a great way to start practicing earning and keeping track of your own finances, and doing simple tasks or working a job is a perfect way to get started.