How to Help Your Teen Figure Out Their Future

Some teens seem to know exactly what they want to do career wise from a young age. Most, however, need a little help discovering what their future could look like after high school. So, how can you help your teen figure out what career path would best align with them? Below are some ways you can help your teen prepare for and navigate the transition after high school.

Encourage Exploration and Discovery

The best career paths are ones that combined an individual’s interests, passions, and sustainability. For many teens, figuring out this combination can be difficult, since there may be many passions or interests they have yet to discover. For others, they may not know which career opportunities or industries align with their interests.

Career Camps are one way teens can overcome both of these challenges.  Offered virtually state-wide and in-person in select areas, Career Camps allow students to explore different career paths, gain in-depth insight into career fields, and speak with industry experts. Additionally our In-Person Career Camps include hands-on training, field trips, site tours, and more! Many teens even discover a passion or even their field of choice after attending a Career Camp, leading them to feel more confident about their future in the workforce.

Prepare For the Basics

Learning the fundamentals of the workforce is an important part of preparing for your teen’s future in the workplace. Knowing how to create a resume, interview well, resolve conflicts, communicate professionally and effectively, and self-advocate are all transferrable skills needed when entering any career path.  Our Work Readiness and Self-Advocacy Trainings are a way for teens to gain and strengthen these skills virtually. These interactive workshops help teens build a solid foundation for success no matter which career path they choose.

Gain Experience

Sometimes you need to gain experience in a field to know if it’s truly the best option for you. Especially when you’re just starting out in the workforce. Our Paid Work-Based Learning Experiences (or On-the-Job Trainings) are a great way for teens to explore different career opportunities while gaining experience – all while being paid. During On-the-Job Trainings, teens are matched with the experience based on interests, travel radius, schedule, and age. They have the opportunity to interview for the positions with the support of a job coach, earn money while gaining real work experience over the course of the one to two month On-the-Job Training, and make connections within the community​. Industry-Based On-the-Job Trainings, available in some areas, even allow teens to earn certifications like ServSafe and OSHA 10. Many teens also get a foot in the door in the career path of their choice through participating in On-the-Job Trainings.

For more information on all of our Youth Services visit https://employu.org/transition-youth-program/ or contact us using the form below.

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