As a teenager, looking for your first job can seem terrifying. Being unprepared, not knowing where to start, having trouble filling out a resume or job application are normal obstacles on the way. Many teens find themselves settling for a job because they feel their ideal jobs are out of reach, but this doesn’t have to be the case.

Air Academy High School junior Mollie Gandy is currently working at a job she loves. “Finding a job can be very difficult, but you can’t give up! Apply anywhere you can see yourself working. I found the right job for me because I only applied at places I would be okay with spending hours in. Find something you can have fun doing.” Said Mollie. Unfortunately, the truth for teens is, applying for jobs means preparing for rejection. It can take time to find a job; so don’t forget to be patient and stay optimistic.

Babysitting and care taking are two of the easiest and most high paying jobs a teen can have. As a babysitter, you could bring home between $5 and $30 an hour with each job. Consider passing out fliers around your neighborhood, it’s a good way to get your name out there. Babysitting can be a great option if you enjoy working with kids and are looking for a less-rigorous work schedule. If you’re searching for a steadier job, consider getting into building or contracting, which is currently a booming industry. You could be bringing home up to $40 an hour. Maybe construction isn’t your thing. Another high paying job for teens is lifeguarding, a perfect summer job. As a lifeguard, you need to be CPR certified and know how to swim. Local pools pay between $8 and $11 hourly. Whatever your interests, it’s always smart to apply to as many places as you can, and to not sacrifice the things you want to do. It is also important to keep in mind an employer will look for certain qualities that show room for learning and improvement. Here are 10 qualities that will help any teen increase their chances at a job of their choosing.

1)    Dress for Success: When showing up to an interview, the first thing an employer notices is how well dressed the teen is. They look at how appropriate the clothing is and how presentable it is. This can make or break the opportunity of getting a job. The rest of the interview will be based on the employer’s first impression so make sure to take a shower and dress professionally.

2)    Reliability: The employer must know how reliable you are before they can be dependent on you. If asked something, you must be able to fulfill the task to the best of your ability. As an employee, you are a liable asset.

3)    Punctuality: Teenagers sometimes have trouble being punctual to everyday places like school or even meeting a friend. Your employer gives you the hours of when to be at work. If tardiness becomes an issue, the employer will have to find someone who will be on time.

4)    Positive Attitude: It is very hard forcing a horse to drink water. It is also very hard for an employer to teach an unwilling employee. Instead of working with the employer, you are working against them which is not fun for either you. Even if you are not good at one thing, keeping a positive attitude lets your boss know you are trying and that you are teachable.

5)    Courteous and Well Mannered: Being courteous and well mannered applies to both your co-workers and your customers. If it is a public business, your face will usually be the first thing they’ll see. This first impression could determine whether the customer will continue business with your company or find business elsewhere. Also, being polite to co-workers insures a good working environment.

6)    Trustworthy: Since this is most likely job number one, the employer has no background information on how trustworthy you are. They must believe that you can be trusted. Knowing that your employer thinks you are trustworthy is a very uplifting feeling.

7)    Self-Motivated: Employers enjoy an employee who doesn’t constantly ask what they need to be doing every minute they work. A self-motivated employee looks for something productive to do and does it well. You should never be sitting there and doing nothing when floors can be swept and counters be washed.

8)    Willing to Learn: Going that extra mile and going above and beyond the normal expectations really impresses the employer. If you are willing to learn other jobs besides your own or taking on tasks without being asked is an important quality that makes the employee excel and possibly even get promoted.

9)    Ambitious: Many teens do enough to just get by and only scratch the surface. However, if you wish to succeed, that ambition and drive to constantly improve shows the employer your willingness to work.

10) Communication skills: This is the basic education needed to get a job. You should brush up on your writing and oral communication skills before your interview. If you do not answer the questions professionally, the odds of you getting that job will be low.

“One of the most important things is to go in to the business that’s hiring. They love to see enthusiasm and persistence. When you land the job, be kind, accept criticism, and prove to your boss that you’re worth their effort and time. Don’t forget to have fun!” Said Jasmin Watkins, Air Academy High School senior. It took Jasmin a while to find the job she’s currently at, but it was worth the patience and hard work.

When it comes to finding a job, look in the areas you enjoy. Even though you may feel pressure to find the right job fast, it’s better to take the time to find the right one, and not to forget the qualities you need to be successful.