Discussions

Where are teenagers actually able to get jobs these days with no experience? I have two who have applied to multiple places that used to be your typical first job with no luck. Any suggestions would be appreciated!! TIA

Is it still possible to get experience by volunteering? I've gotten jobs like that in the past, but I realize the job market has changed, and that may not work anymore. My volunteer experience counts for the job I am doing now—it definitely gave me transferable skills!  
 
If they have no luck finding employment, that's maybe a route to try. My kid says the job board at school (Neelin) has all kinds of volunteer opportunities on it, presumably for this exact reason.

All the retail jobs and fast food work and things that kids went to for first jobs have been given to newcomers, but there is work available out there. January is also a tough month for emplyment seekers as most employers are focussed on tightening the company belt so to speak. Heritage Co-Op is usually looking for PT gas jockeys/C-Store attendants, Teen Thrift Challenge Thrift store, Concessions at the Keystone, there'll be plenty of work available for Winter Fair and Ag days, Value Village, DQ is hiring right now. It's a grind to find work for anyone out there, I wish them all the luck. If I end up hearing about anything, I'll DM you.

The reason newcomers are taking all the entry level jobs is because lots of us entitled Canadians think these jobs are beneath us. These newcomers show up and work hard every day.  
 
It's extremely difficult to employ young people these days especially kids that are in sports like hockey. They can't work weekends and most evenings due to games or practice. These are typically the times that retail and fast food need part time workers the most.  
 
If your teen wants to work hard and is persistent in their pursuit for employment they will find work.  
 
McDonald's  
Tim's  
DQ  
Eastside Mario's (greeter)  
Michaels  
Best Buy  
Pizza Hut  
Plato's closet  
Once upon a child  
Boston pizza (greeter)  
 
These are just a few I can think of off the top of my head that I know hire teens... Not just new comers

It’s a lot different then even a few years ago to find work in Brandon. It’s also like a small town it’s who you know or friends that you know. It’s not all jobs tho. Just have to keep applying. Not all people work hard as what was stated before. Also just wait until all the computers start taking over jobs. And every job can be replaced with a AI robot no job is safe. Can’t say it hasn’t started self check out, robot waiters, look at car manufacturers. So really think where are your grand kids or great grand kids going to work when more and more robots are being made. They can out work and out think humans. Good luck to any kid wanting to work just keep applying as hopefully sooner or later something comes along.