Debit Cards V Credit Cards
When you’re under 18, you’re lucky! You can’t get into trouble with credit cards as you are under the legal age! But a lot of young people are encouraged to get credit cards when they turn 18! Beware as misuse of a credit card is one of the easiest ways to get into debt.
Let’s first look at the differences between the two. A debit card gives you access to your own money, so you are limited to withdraw or spend only as much as is in your account. When you turn 18...
Your Part-Time Job
A part-time job is a cool way to make some money, meet new friends, learn new skills and become independent. Some of the things you learn at work like leadership, responsibility, teamwork, communication and customer service skills will serve you well for the rest of your working life - even though you will probably have a number of jobs over time.
It's never too early to look for part-time work, but around 14 seems a common age to start. Think about which kind of job you'd prefer:
- Delivery - newspapers, milk run, advertising pamphlets
- Babysitting
- Retail - Shop assistant in small or large store or supermarket
- Hospitality - Restaurants and Fast Food outlets
- Cleaning
- Office work
- Coaching/tutoring - teaching sport or schoolwork to younger children (You may have to complete a course first)
- Don't forget about seasonal work - these are jobs that pop up at a certain time of year, e.g. Retail and hospitality work at Christmas time, seasonal fruit picking in country areas.
Now ask yourself...
- How are you going to get to and from your job?
- When will you be working... day, night, weekends, after school?
- Will it clash with your other commitments... school, sport, hobbies.
- Your part-time job should NEVER be put ahead of your studies. It is not as important.
- Can you be consistently available and not let your employer down?
- Will you enjoy the activities and environment that come with the job... active/static, indoor/outdoor, social/isolated, teamwork/independent, thinking/routine.
- Do you have experience in any particular job or area? (It could make the job hunt easier)
- Have you talked it over with your parents? Do you have the same ideas?
