Goal: Help your teen learn how to pursue a career

Hey parents

Want to gently guide your teens toward wanting a career, and then figuring out what that career might be? You might want to take this one slowly so you don’t spook them.

Here's a list of things you could do that will help.

Parents should encourage their children to explore various fields of interest. You can provide resources, arrange visits to workplaces, or find people who can share about different careers.

Help your teenager understand their strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Personality tests and career aptitude tests can be useful tools for this purpose.

Instill in your child the value of education and continuous learning. This doesn't only pertain to academic learning but also to life skills and vocational skills.

Share your own career experiences with your teen, both the triumphs and the challenges. Show them that it's normal to encounter obstacles and how to overcome them.

It's important for teenagers to feel that their parents support their career decisions. While it's okay to give guidance, the ultimate decision should be theirs.

A basic understanding of personal finance, budgeting, and the financial implications of career choices are crucial skills for young adults.

Soft skills like communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving are important in almost every career. Help your child develop these skills through activities and experiences.

Encourage your teenager to get a part-time job, volunteer, or apply for internships. This real-world experience will give them a better idea of what a career in a particular field might look like.

Assist your child in writing their first resume and teach them the basics of interviewing. These skills will be invaluable as they begin applying for jobs and internships.

While it's important to work hard and strive for success, it's also vital to maintain a balance between work and personal life. Teach your teenager the importance of relaxation, hobbies, and maintaining personal relationships.

The journey to a career can be filled with rejection and failure. Encourage your teen to be resilient, to learn from failure, and not to be afraid of making mistakes.

Stress about the future can take a toll on teenagers' mental health. Create a supportive and understanding environment where they feel comfortable expressing their worries and concerns.