An ambitious 15-year-old can launch her own business.
Fifteen-year-olds may need to approach the job market with a different mind-set than their older peers. Employment laws place certain restrictions on workers who are between the ages of 14 and 16. In addition, older teens will have a competitive advantage because they have experience and references. But a 15-year-old with the right combination of talent and moxie can bring in an income by launching her own business.
Household Services
An enterprising 15-year-old can earn steady wages by offering to complete various chores for homeowners. He can find business opportunities buried in his customers' cluttered basements and garages. The teen can perform full cleaning services or focus on clearing and organizing specific troublesome spots such as attics or cellars. Painting is another service that a teenager can provide to different households in return for payment, especially if the youngster knows that a neighbor is remodeling a home. Interior painting services could be accomplished all year, whereas exterior work would be done during warmer months. A 15-year-old can mow lawns and pull weeds in the summer, rake leaves every autumn and shovel driveways and walkways in the winter.
Business Help
A 15-year-old should assess his skills to see if his abilities can be put to work in any small or family-owned business, especially if the teenager already knows the owner of a local proprietorship. The youngster could offer his computer know-how, especially if he is proficient with web design and content. Or, the teen could run errands or perform messenger work. If she is a gifted writer or photographer, she could generate interest among smaller businesses that might have a demand for those same talents on a freelance basis.
Tutoring
Teaching is another possible revenue generator for a 15-year-old. A teen who has aced his high school mathematics, English or foreign language classes could assist other teens who need some extra coaching in those same subjects. Adults and children also could be interested in one-on-one tutoring with a bright teenager. Computer classes represent another demand. Many adults and small-business owners would appreciate personalized PC instructions with a technologically savvy 15-year-old.
Traditional Jobs
The jobs that historically have been performed by teenagers continue to be available for a youngster eager to make money. This includes babysitting and washing cars. A 15-year-old also can earn cash by walking, bathing and grooming neighborhood pets. When a client travels on vacation, the teenage entrepreneur can charge fees for checking on and caring for that customer's animals.
Tags: those same