For most college students, holiday's are a great time to sleep in, catch up with your family, and eat home cooked meals. For me, holidays consist of coming home and working my high school job, McDonald's. What a glorious vacation right? I've been employed at my hometown's McDonald's for nearly 6 years now and although it's not my dream job, I have learned many things over the years. Today, I would like to talk about why working at McDonald's is the best first job for any teenager!
Flexible Hours
Whether it's high school or college, when you get your first job, you are bound to be busy. One of the best things about being employed by this company is they are more than willing to work with your busy sports schedule.
People Skills
At some point by now, it's likely you've been through a drive-thru. Well at 15, taking orders isn't exactly the most comfortable thing in the world. From angry customers to sassy teenagers, I have learned how to deal with a variety of people. I would say although I am already an extrovert, working fast food has taught me to deal with people in both a friendly and professional environment.
Time Management
I don't know about you, but most teenagers don't wake up on before noon on a weekend unless they are forced. Being that my availability was weekends only, I had to force myself to wake up early in the morning Saturday to get to work on time. Also, having a weekend job cuts into your study time which means, although most of your friends are hanging out at the mall on Saturday, you learn to prioritize your school and work schedule. On the bright, you'll have extra spending money for your next shopping trip!
Leadership Opportunities
It's funny to think there are any leadership opportunities in a fast food restaurant; but, there are many. Although when you're 15 it's legally impossible to become a manager, you can still work your way up. When you are first hired you are considered a "Crew Member." However, over the course of your employment, your job performance is evaluated and critiqued. If you perform well enough, you are eligible to be promoted to "Crew Trainer," which isn't too shabby for a minor.
Work Experience
I remember in high school a lot of my friends would make fun of the fact that I worked at a fast food restaurant. Who cares: you're a teenager, it's extra money, and you get tons of work experience. Working at McDonald's in high school was the main reason why it was so easy for me to find an on-campus job once I got to Ohio Northern University. Remember, you only live once, so have fun and get out there and earn some extra cash! Who knows, maybe one day you can own your own McDonald's franchise!
