The 2004 Job Outlook for Teens-- This rite of passage is passing teens by, says Teens4Hire.org

Teen job seekers are hardest hit by the U.S. jobless economic recovery and other employment factors. In June 2003, 40.9% of teens 16-19 were jobless representing the lowest level in 55 years! 2004 wont be much better.

Huntington Beach, CA (PRWEB) April 8, 2004 -- Teen job seekers are hardest hit by the U.S. jobless economic recovery and other employment factors. In June 2003, 40.9% of teens 16-19 were jobless representing the lowest level in 55 years! 2004 wont be much better.

There will be some of the traditional jobs available for teens in 2004 but teens will be competing with older job seekers who are being courted by businesses to fill part time, temporary and seasonal jobs.

National retailers, casual dining restaurants, amusement parks, recreational facilities, and business service companies tell us they have openings, but cant find enough qualified" people to fill the positions. Older workers, they say, are perfect candidates. They are flexible in their schedules, reliable, have a strong work ethic, and bring invaluable experience to the workplace.

Teens want to work. This is clearly evident by the millions of ambitious teens (51% say they are A" students) with a broad range of interests, self-motivation and drive that visit Teens4Hire.org in search of landing a job.

Our March 2004 poll reveals that 52% of teen job seekers feel their job income is a necessity rather than a luxury. And, 23% feel that work experience early in life will help prepare them for the future.

Many businesses tell us they have been dismayed by teen workers. They say teens, just want a paycheck and are not really willing to work." They add that teens have bad attitudes" and are unreliable."

Businesses lament that teens feel they are entitled" to a job and often dont realize that they have to prepare themselves for the work place and understand the basic needs of business. As a result, many of the potential businesses with whom teens seek employment, will not proactively extend themselves to teen job seekers.

There are more teens seeking jobs than openings, so these businesses, in general, can sit back and wait for applicants to come knocking on their doors.

Opportunities are greatest for 18-19 year old teens with high GPAs, great interpersonal skills and networking know-how. While our poll shows that 44% of teens want to work in a retail store, most national retailers will not even consider teens under 18. In 2000, many of them did.

Teens will have to be assertive to secure a job in 2004. Teens must demonstrate that they are willing to work, have positive attitudes, are reliable and understand the needs of the business. To better prepare, teens should review Teens4Hire.orgs Top Ten Tips to Land a Job.

Teens should also consider non-paying volunteer positions to gain work experience.

And, teens should consider starting their own businesses this year to earn the money they need.

About us
www.Teens4Hire.org is an online Career Center for employers and teens in the high school and college age groups. The service provides tips and advice for teens looking for work. Also has an advice section for parents, career counselors and teachers. Teens must register, but don't worry -- it's free.

The Forward Group, a privately held company, publishes www.Teens4Hire.org and www.Seniors4Hire.org
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