Money and work
Get ready for a first job
A first employer is usually looking for reliability, communication, and willingness to learn more than a long work history.
Reviewed July 15, 2026Do now
Take these three steps.
- List school, volunteering, caregiving, clubs, projects, and informal work that show useful skills.
- Make a one-page résumé with contact information, availability, skills, and two or three experiences.
- Practice a 30-second answer to: Tell me about yourself and why you want this job.
“I'm a student who is dependable, comfortable learning new tasks, and available ____. In ____, I learned how to ____. I'm interested in this job because ____.”
If that is not possible
Keep another route open.
If you do not have formal experience, use examples that prove you show up, solve problems, learn, organize, help people, or complete work.
Bring in more help
Do not carry this part alone.
Never pay to apply for a normal job, deposit a check and send money back, or provide banking login information. Verify the employer independently.
See immediate-help options →Sources
Where this guidance comes from.
- U.S. Department of LaborYoung Worker Safety and Rights ↗
Federal information about hours, hazardous work, pay, and workplace rights for young workers.
- Consumer Financial Protection BureauYouth Financial Education ↗
Research-based information about building financial knowledge, skills, and habits.
This is general educational guidance. Rules for minors, confidentiality, healthcare, school obligations, and reporting vary by location and situation.
Make it yours