Lessons I’ve Learned Employing Young Adults

One of the hardest aspects of being a business owner is hiring employees. Thankfully, I have a great group of people with a range of ages that work for me. I have, however, come across some issues of concern and as a parent, I’d like to give some insight in hopes of helping out young adults entering the workforce. I’m also including tips for parents that may have some influence on the matter.

If you want the job, apply for the job.

Don’t have your parent apply for the job, call about the job, or follow up on your interview (if you were able to even get one). This shows little to no initiation or desire to actually work. If you apply in person, please no booty shorts.

Let their boss help them grow.

Your child may complain that they didn’t get a requested day off or have to work a weekend shift. At some point, young adults need to know work isn’t like school. Weekends and holidays are a must in many vocations, and they may just have to miss hanging out with their friends. Don’t join your child in criticizing their boss.

Help your young adult by setting expectations.

If your child lived most of their life with little responsibilities at home, they will struggle when they enter the real world. Set some expectations – even small ones – so your child has a sense of responsibility. My 6 year old is responsible for folding his socks, putting up his clean laundry and feeding and watering our dogs. His list will grow as he does.

Go the extra mile.

Your first job can be one of the best jobs you ever have. I am still close friends with a lot of the people I worked with at my first job. I took the time to help out co-workers, to participate in work events and to make myself known as a good employee, co-worker and friend.

When it’s time to leave, leave.

It is okay to outgrow a job or a position. It’s okay to move on to bigger and better things. It’s also okay to get fired (not literally okay, but you’ll survive) but remember, everything happens for a reason. Move on and make peace.

Traci Pecot
NOLA born and raised, Traci moved to Lafayette in 2005 to pursue a career in corporate marketing. She married her husband Ryan in 2010 and adopted her son, now 8, in 2016. Today, along with being a full time mom, she owns and operates a dog daycare, boarding and grooming facility in Lafayette. She and her husband maintain a part-time residence in NOLA, spending weekends "home" visiting family and friends. Avid sports fan, dog obsessed, wanna be distance runner (finishing just one half-marathon), and adoption enthusiast, she looks forward to adding "blog contributor" to her lists of accomplishments.