Useful Skills for Getting a Job While in High School

I'm considering getting a part-time job during my junior year. What skills should I focus on developing to make myself more marketable for positions that hire high schoolers? Any specific suggestions for retail or entry-level jobs?

Given you're aiming for retail or entry-level positions, here are some skills that can help strengthen your candidacy:

1. Customer Service: This is an essential component in most high school part-time jobs, especially in the retail sector. Being able to professionally interact with customers, address their needs, and handle complaints are skills that employers value greatly. You can develop these skills by volunteering at local events or community projects where you interact with many different individuals.

2. Collaboration and Teamwork: Most jobs will have you working as part of a team. You can bolster these skills through group projects in school or through group extracurricular activities. Practice effective communication, problem-solving, and showing respect for diverse perspectives.

3. Time Management: Balancing an academic schedule with part-time work can be challenging. Develop time management and organization skills to not only impress potential employers but also to make sure you keep on top of all your responsibilities.

4. Technological Savvy: Most jobs require some level of computer literacy. This may extend to using a cash register, Point of Sale (POS) systems, or common software applications like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. If specific software is needed for a job you're interested in, try to get a basic understanding of how it works.

5. Problem-solving Skills: Employers value workers who are able to assess situations, identify problems, and implement solutions. Playing strategy games or participating in clubs like a Math or Debate club can help refine these skills.

Remember, many employers understand that this might be your first job and you might not have all these skills fully developed. It's also your attitude, willingness to learn, and work ethic that play a big part in getting hired.