Summer months are the peak of youth employment, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last July, the bureau reported 55.3% of youth ages 16 to 24 were employed in the U.S., slightly more than in 2021.

To get that summer job, however, requires some prep work, such as learning valuable skills. Sometimes young people need a leg-up and a little extra help to succeed in a career they love.

In southwestern Idaho, teens have the opportunity to learn some of those skills and gain a head-start in their career by attending a free workshop, Feb. 22. The event takes place from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Meridian Library.

Teens with limited or no work experience are encouraged to attend, sharpen their interview skills and gain the confidence they need.

“Interviews can be intimidating for teens,” said Miranda Nelson, workforce consultant for the Idaho Department of Labor.

Attendees will learn job search skills including interview preparation, proper attire, answering common questions and following up with an employer. They will also learn how to gain confidence for a job interview and avoid common mistakes.

“Coming to the workshop will help prepare them for common questions and set them up for success,” Nelson said. “Knowing what to expect and being prepared is one of the best ways to be confident during an interview.”

For a real-life experience, teens will engage in mock interviews with their peers.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a notebook and writing materials to take notes to set themselves up for success.

But this workshop isn’t the only career development resource available for teens.

The department also has a youth program for qualifying young adults ages 16-24. This program gives participants the extra support they need to enter the workforce at their own pace. Routes to success can include education, training and employment opportunities. In this program, participants pave the path to achieve their goals in life.

Workforce consultants also help youth complete their GED, connect them to paid and unpaid work experiences and more.

If the youth program isn’t a good fit, there are many other resources available through the department as well, including workshops throughout the state and a free interactive online interviewing feature – Big Interview.

These services are offered in various Labor locations across the state including Boise, Burley, Caldwell, Idaho Falls, Lewiston, Pocatello, Post Falls, Sandpoint, Twin Falls and in more than 50 mobile locations. Find a full list of locations and office hours at labor.idaho.gov/officedirectory.

For more information about the interviewing for teens workshop contact Anthony DeVille, workforce consultant, at 208-332-3570 ext. 3270 or Anthony.DeVille@labor.idaho.gov

Lindsay Trombly, public information specialist
Idaho Department of Labor

The Idaho Department of Labor’s employment services programs are 100% funded by the U.S. Department of Labor as part of Wagner-Peyser Act grants totaling $12,102,970.