Rania V. Sedhom, Esq., labor and employment associate in the Mineola law firm Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. offers advise to parents on how to keep your teen safe as they are looking for summer employment.
“Teens may have a mind of their own, but parents can provide useful guidance to ensure that their summer work experience is positive for their self-esteem, gaining practical life skills and learning about work industries or conditions,” says Ms. Sedhom. “Guide your teen so that they get a rewarding job that won’t harm their health or psyche.”
Like adults, teens will have to present themselves well in order to be taken seriously and to prevent abuse. That means, make sure when going on job interviews, your teens are dressed appropriately (no miniskirts, halters, etc.), speak politely and have a typo-free resume.
Talk with your teen about what kind of job they would enjoy and focus your job hunt on a safe, satisfying and fun job within that industry. If your teen insists on job hunting solo, then investigate the prospective employer before allowing your teenager to accept the job.
Once you & your teen have found the summer job, investigate the employer.
1. Ask your teen how they found out about the job.
2. Go to the Better Business Bureau’s webpage (www.bbb.org) and check to see if the company is valid.
3. Go to the company’s website and learn more about the company’s philosophy and culture.
4. Conduct an internet search to determine whether, and how many times, the employer has had allegations of sexual harassment or misconduct against teenagers in your area. For example, your search can be “(corporate name) sexual harassment.”
5. Visit the specific location where your teenager will be working to determine if it is safe.
6. Ask your friends if they know anyone who works at the company and get the inside scoop on teen employment.
7. If you are having trouble finding out information about the prospective employer or are uncertain of your findings, call and make an appointment to meet your teenager’s prospective supervisor.
Once you have finished your due diligence, ask you teen to inquire
as to what safety measures are in place for them at the job.
1. Will the area in which they are working expose them to loud noises that can induce hearing loss?
2. Is the employer providing goggles, gloves, or any other injury preventing equipment that is necessary?
3. Does the room where your teen is working have proper ventilation?
4. Does the employer require your teenager to sign any waivers?
5. Will your teenager have to lift heavy objects?
6. If your child is working inside someone’s home, find out if there will be other adults present in the home.
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