So you’re looking to land that first job as a teenager but have zero experience? Don’t panic. Plenty of stores and businesses actually prefer hiring teens—you’re energetic, adaptable, and usually way more tech-savvy than the managers training you!

I’ve done the research on which places are most likely to hire you, what you need to know before applying, and how to actually get the job when you have nothing to put on that scary blank resume. Let’s dive in!

Where Can Teens With No Experience Actually Get Hired?

First off, let’s be real—finding your first job can feel intimidating. But here’s the good news: tons of national chains and local businesses actively recruit teenagers with absolutely zero work history.

Why? Because these places know they can train you from scratch and you haven’t picked up bad habits from other jobs. Plus, most teen-friendly jobs are designed to be learned quickly—no complicated skills required.

Major Retailers That Love Hiring Teens

Let’s talk about where you should be applying! These are the stores with the best track records of hiring first-timers:

Grocery Stores (The Teen Employment MVPs)

• Publix – Hires baggers as young as 14! They’re huge in the Southeast and known for treating employees well. According to a recent survey, Publix is consistently rated among the best places for teens to work.
• Kroger – Offers jobs for 14/15-year-olds (with work permits) as courtesy clerks, baggers, and cart collectors. Their 29 different grocery brands mean lots of opportunities.
• Wegmans – Northeast chain hiring cashiers and customer service at 15+
• Safeway/Albertsons – Many locations hire at 14 for bagging and cart collection

Fast Food & Restaurants (Classic First Jobs)

• McDonald’s – Some locations hire at 14, others at 16. They also offer education benefits through their Archways to Opportunity program!
• Dairy Queen – Many DQs hire at 14 for counter service and cleaning roles
• Taco Bell – Generally hires at 16 for most positions

Retail Stores (For the Fashion-Forward Teen)

• Ulta Beauty – Typically hires at 16+ for Beauty Advisor positions
• Kohl’s – Retail associate positions usually start at 16
• Adidas/Nike – Stock positions and some sales roles for 16+
• Five Below – Teen-focused store that (not surprisingly) loves hiring teens!

Seasonal & Entertainment

• Six Flags and other amusement parks – Massive summer hiring at 15/16+
• Movie theaters – Usually hire at 16 for concessions and ticket taking

The Jobs You Can Actually Get

What jobs can you realistically land with zero experience? Here are the most common entry-level positions:

• Bagger/Cart Attendant – The classic starter job
• Cashier – Usually after a few months as a bagger
• Crew Member (fast food) – Taking orders, preparing food
• Stocker – Keeping shelves filled and organized
• Host/Hostess – Seating customers at restaurants

The good news? Most of these jobs will train you completely from scratch. You don’t need to know how to run a register or make a Big Mac before your first day—they’ll teach you everything!

How To Actually Get Hired (When You Have Zero Experience)

Alright, so you know where to apply—but how do you actually land the job? Here’s my step-by-step game plan:

Create a “No-Experience” Resume That Actually Works

Even with zero job history, you can create a solid resume by focusing on:

• School activities – Sports teams, clubs, volunteer work
• Skills – Computer knowledge, languages you speak
• Responsibilities – Babysitting, lawn mowing, helping with family business
• Character traits – Punctual, hardworking, quick learner

Remember: Your resume doesn’t need to be fancy—just clean, error-free, and honest. Career experts recommend keeping it to one page and using simple formatting.

Application Process For First-Timers

1. Apply to multiple places – Don’t put all your eggs in one basket!
2. Apply in person when possible – Making a face-to-face impression can set you apart
3. Follow up – Check back after 5-7 days if you haven’t heard anything
4. Be available – The more flexible your schedule, the more appealing you are

Ace The Interview (Even When You’re Nervous)

When you land an interview, follow these tips:

• Dress slightly nicer than you would for the job itself
• Arrive 10 minutes early – punctuality is huge for first jobs
• Prepare answers for common questions like “Why do you want this job?” and “What are your strengths?”
• Ask questions about training, scheduling, and what makes employees successful there

Important Legal Stuff You Should Know

Before you start applying, understand the rules:

Age Restrictions & Work Permits

• 14-15 year olds: Limited to 3 hours on school days, 18 hours during school weeks, no late nights
• 16-17 year olds: More flexibility but still some restrictions on hours and certain tasks
• Work permits: Many states require these for teens under 16—check with your school office

What You’ll Actually Make

Pay varies dramatically by location, but:

• Expect minimum wage for most entry-level positions
• Some places like Chick-fil-A and Target pay above minimum wage even for beginners
• Most places offer raises after 3-6 months of good performance

Real Talk: What Working As A Teen Is Actually Like

Let me give you some honest perspective on what that first job will be like:

The Good Stuff

• Your own money! Financial independence is awesome
• New friends outside of your usual school circles
• Skills that will help in future jobs and college applications
• References for your next job application

The Challenging Parts

• Balancing work and school can be tough
• Dealing with difficult customers takes patience
• Standing for long periods in most retail/food jobs
• Working weekends/holidays when friends are hanging out

Tips From Teens Who’ve Been There

I asked around and compiled advice from teens who successfully landed their first jobs:

• “Apply everywhere, even if they don’t have a ‘Now Hiring’ sign” – Jamie, 16
• “Emphasize your availability during busy seasons like summer and holidays” – Miguel, 17
• “Don’t be picky about your first job—getting experience is what matters” – Taylor, 15
• “If you’re nervous in interviews, practice with a friend beforehand” – Zoe, 16

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!

Finding your first job might take some persistence, but don’t get discouraged! Every “no” gets you closer to a “yes.” Remember that these employers are used to hiring teens with no experience—that’s literally their business model.

Focus on showing up with a positive attitude, willingness to learn, and reliability. Those three qualities alone will put you ahead of many applicants!

And once you land that job? Celebrate! Your first paycheck is a major milestone. Treat yourself to something small, but save most of it. Future you will thank present you for those smart money habits.

Now get out there and start applying—your first job is waiting!