In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of high school students taking on part-time jobs. According to reports, roughly 250,000 young teens are now working part-time jobs, a significant uptick compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend has caught the attention of experts and industry professionals, prompting discussions on the reasons behind this shift and the implications it may have on the younger workforce.
One key observation is that Gen-Z, the generation currently in their teenage years, is turning to part-time work not only as a response to economic conditions but also as a means of seeking stability and independence in the aftermath of the pandemic. Patrick Gourley, an associate professor at the University of New Haven’s Pompea College of Business, highlighted the correlation between the teenage labor force participation rate and the state of the economy. He noted that for millennials, economic hardships during their teenage years, such as the 2008 recession, led to lower employment rates and a focus on education as a means of securing stability.
As the economy has improved, more teenagers are now entering the labor force, seeking employment opportunities rather than pursuing higher education immediately. This shift has been further fueled by factors such as increases in minimum wage in some states and the availability of entry-level positions due to older workers exiting the labor market during the pandemic. Jason Dorsey, author of “Zconomy: How Gen Z Will Change the Future of Business,” emphasized that Gen Z’s desire for stability and financial independence has been a driving force behind their entry into the workforce.
The rise of the gig economy has also played a role in making part-time roles more attractive to young workers. Dr. Jessica Kriegel, Chief Scientist of Workplace Culture at Culture Partners, highlighted how gig economy jobs have provided additional opportunities for teenagers to earn income and gain valuable work experience. This shift towards part-time work has been further facilitated by remote work options, which have allowed teens to balance academics, extracurricular activities, and jobs more effectively.
While some may view the increase in teenage employment as a cultural shift, Jason Greer, Founder and President of Greer Consulting, offered a different perspective. He noted that many teenagers are motivated to contribute to their families’ economic well-being, especially in households where parents are struggling to make ends meet. This sense of responsibility and desire to help their families financially has driven many teens to seek part-time employment.
Overall, the trend of high school students taking on part-time jobs reflects a complex interplay of economic, social, and personal factors. As young workers navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern workforce, employers will need to adapt their coaching and mentoring strategies to support and empower this emerging generation of workers. By understanding the motivations and aspirations of young workers, businesses can cultivate a more engaged and productive workforce for the future.
