Jobs for high school students: 14 tips for finding a job without experience.

The first job is always a memorable milestone in everyone's life. Whether it's just part-time work after school or earning money for small hobbies, working helps students learn responsibility, communication skills, and financial management – ​​practical lessons that no textbook can fully teach.

If you're looking for a job while you're still in school but don't know where to start, don't worry! This article will provide detailed guidance on how to find a suitable job for students – from preparing your resume and searching for job opportunities to how to impress recruiters, even if you have no experience .

And if you're someone who values ​​independence and creativity, don't overlook suggestions for work-from-home jobs or small startups for students – earning money while studying is perfectly fine if you know how.

Tip 1: Finding effective online jobs for students

Finding jobs online is the fastest way for students to access many job opportunities that suit their age, schedule, and personal interests. Below are some practical and easy-to-apply job-finding methods, even if you have no prior experience.

1. Search for jobs on reputable recruitment websites.

• Visit websites like Indeed, Vieclam24h, CareerBuilder, and VietnamWorks to see job listings that are updated daily.

• Type in keywords related to the industry or location where you want to work, for example: "cafe server in Hanoi" or "weekend sales assistant".

• Creating a personal profile and uploading your CV will help you apply faster and get noticed by employers.

2. Utilize social media to find a job.

• Many small businesses or shops post job openings on Facebook, Zalo, TikTok, and LinkedIn .

• Follow job groups for students in your area to stay updated on the latest job openings.

• With LinkedIn , you can create a free profile, introduce yourself, and connect with adults, alumni, or teachers who can recommend reliable job opportunities.

3. Check the job postings at the school.

• Some schools have bulletin boards or career offices where they post job openings from companies looking for students to work part-time.

• This is a safe, suitable, and reliable job source, as the employer has been verified by the school.

4. Things to note when looking for a job online

• Do not provide sensitive personal information (ID card, bank account details, etc.) without first verifying the company's identity.

• Prioritize jobs with a clear address, transparent job descriptions, and reasonable salaries .

Tip 2: Choose a job that suits your interests.

When starting their job search, many students often think, "Any job will do as long as it pays," but in reality, doing a job you love will help you be happier, stay committed longer, and learn more skills. Below are some ways to choose a job that suits your personality and interests.

1. Identify what you like and are good at.

• Write down a list of the activities that interest you the most.

• Think about what special skills you have — for example, good communication, manual dexterity, dynamism, patience, or creativity.

• When you understand yourself well, it will be easier to choose the right job to leverage your strengths.

2. Suggesting jobs that suit individual interests.

• Enjoy outdoor activities: Work for landscaping companies, gardeners, pet shops, animal shelters , or light construction .

• If you enjoy physical activity and dislike sitting still, apply for jobs like car washing, house cleaning, moving companies, babysitting, or construction site cleaning – jobs that help you improve your physical fitness and mental resilience.

• If you enjoy socializing and helping others: Try working at a coffee shop, restaurant, retail store, movie theater, or amusement park . Besides meeting many people, you might also have the chance to earn employee discounts if you work at a fashion store or game center.

• Passionate about technology or gaming: Find a job at a game store, phone repair shop, or computer center – you can earn extra income while learning a skill you love.

3. Tips for choosing a part-time job

• Choose activities that fit within your study schedule and do not negatively impact your academic performance.

• We prioritize jobs that are safe, have a healthy environment, and clear guidance .

• Don't be afraid to try different jobs to discover yourself and gain practical experience .

Tip 3: Obtain a work permit if required.

In some countries, students under 18 need a work permit before starting a full-time job. While this type of permit is not yet common in Vietnam, understanding this process is crucial if you plan to work for a foreign company, an international organization , or study or work abroad .

1. When is a work permit required?

• If you are under 16 , many places require a permit to ensure the work is age-appropriate.

• Some countries or states (such as the US, Canada, Japan, etc.) require anyone under 18 to obtain permission before starting work.

• In Vietnam, students aged 15 to under 18 can still work part-time, but they must ensure that their working hours, health, and safety comply with the regulations of the Labor Code.

2. How to apply for a work permit (for international students)

• Contact your local labor office or the career services office at your school for guidance on the procedures.

• Typically, you will need to submit:

  • Application for work permit (using the provided form)

  • A confirmation letter from the school , proving that you are currently enrolled and have achieved satisfactory academic results.

  • A job offer or employment contract from the employer.

• Some places require you to have a job before you can get a permit — in that case, the permit will only be valid at that company . If you change jobs, you will need to apply for a new permit .

3. Important notes for Vietnamese students

• I only accept light, safe jobs that do not affect my health or studies .

• Ask detailed questions about working conditions, working hours, benefits, and contract before accepting the job.

• If you plan to work abroad, thoroughly research the regulations regarding child labor in that country to avoid breaking the law.

Tip 4: Ask an adult to be a referral when applying for a job.

When you're a student with limited work experience, references are the best way to build trust with potential employers. These individuals can confirm that you are hardworking, responsible, and reliable – qualities essential for any job.

1. Who can be your referrer?

• Teachers, coaches, or academic advisors: They understand your work style, learning mindset, and attitude in class.

• Team leaders, club leaders, or extracurricular activity coordinators: They can demonstrate your teamwork skills, leadership, or discipline.

• Adults you've helped or worked with: If you've ever babysat, walked dogs, gardened, cleaned, or assisted with sales , ask customers or neighbors if they can confirm you were trustworthy.

2. How to ask for permission politely and professionally

• Before listing someone as a referrer, ask for their permission first .

• Clearly state what type of job you are looking for , so they know how to respond if they are contacted by an employer.

• You can put it simply:

  "I'm about to apply for a part-time job at a bookstore. Could you please be my referrer? I'd be very grateful because you've seen me work hard in [name of activity or job]."

3. Things to note when choosing a referrer

• Choose someone who understands your personality and work ethic , not necessarily someone with a high-ranking position.

• Maintain a good relationship, and let us know when you've been hired to show your gratitude and respect.

Tip 5: Connect with adults to find job opportunities.

Sometimes, the quickest way to find a job isn't by applying online , but by asking for a referral . Many small businesses or local shops don't post job openings publicly ; they only hire people through trusted referrals. So, if you're a student looking for part-time work, leverage the power of personal connections (networking) .

1. Let people know you're looking for a job.

• Talk to your teachers, neighbors, relatives, family friends, coaches, or friends' parents .

• Clearly state what type of job you are looking for , for example: working as a waiter/waitress in a cafe, sales assistant, tutor, or warehouse worker.

• Don't hesitate to ask, "Do you know of any places that are hiring part-time students?" – this is a natural and polite way to start a conversation.

2. Why is networking effective?

• Many jobs are not advertised publicly ; they are only filled through referrals from acquaintances.

• Employers often trust referrals more because they rely on the opinions of acquaintances.

• Having a referral makes it easier to get an interview or a job faster than candidates who submit their applications randomly.

3. How to mention your referrer's name when applying for a job.
When meeting a recruiter, you can introduce yourself politely as follows:

"I was introduced to you by Minh (a family friend). He mentioned that your company is looking for part-time workers, so I wanted to ask if you're still hiring?"

This way of speaking demonstrates proactiveness, humility, and trustworthiness , and helps recruiters remember you more quickly.

4. Things to note when building relationships for job hunting.

• Always maintain a polite and sincere attitude when asking for help.

• If someone refers you, thank them and update them on the results after the interview or job offer.

• Don't forget to maintain long-term contact , as this could be a valuable source of career opportunities for you in the future.

Tip 6: Create a simple resume (CV) for students.

Even if you're a first-time employee with limited experience, a basic, clear CV will still help you make a good impression on recruiters. A CV not only shows you're serious and organized, but it also helps you remember essential information when filling out job applications.

1. Content that should be included in a student's CV

• Personal information: Full name, phone number, email address, and physical address (if required).

• Education: School name, class, current academic year, GPA (if good or excellent).

• Work experience: This includes part-time work, volunteering, internships, or unpaid work . Examples include working at a coffee shop, tutoring, babysitting, or participating in volunteer programs.

• Extracurricular activities: Clubs, teams, sports, school activities – these demonstrate your teamwork skills, discipline, and responsibility.

• Personal skills: Communication, basic computer skills, time management, meticulousness, creativity, or dynamism.

2. How to present your CV in a clear and professional manner.

• Use pre-made CV templates in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or Canva – choose a simple, clear, and uncluttered template.

• Write concisely, under one A4 page , using bullet points for readability.

• Use positive language such as "support," "participate," "contribute," "take responsibility," etc., instead of just listing tasks.

3. Why should you prepare a CV even if the job doesn't require one?

• Many part-time jobs only require filling out pre-made forms, but having a CV readily available helps you fill it out faster, more accurately, and more professionally .

• A CV also helps you reflect on your strengths and achievements , making you more confident during interviews.

4. Tips for writing a student's CV

• Use a professional email address (e.g., nguyenvananh123@gmail.com, avoid childish nicknames).

• Please check your spelling and grammar carefully before submitting.

• Ask your teachers or other adults to review and correct your presentation and wording.

Tip 7: Apply for jobs you're interested in.

When you start your job search, don't just apply to one place and wait for a response . In reality, many employers don't respond to all applicants. Therefore, to increase your chances of getting hired, you should apply to multiple places simultaneously and proactively monitor the recruitment process .

1. Apply for multiple different jobs.

• Apply to at least 3–4 places that match your time, interests, and abilities.

• If you simply submit an application and then wait, you may have to wait a very long time to receive a response.

• Some places don't respond or don't invite you for interviews, so the more applications you submit, the higher your chances .

2. Applying to multiple branches of the same brand.

• Each branch has its own manager and recruitment needs .

• For example, if you want to work at McDonald's, Highlands Coffee, or Circle K , try applying to 2–3 branches in your local area to increase your chances of being selected.

• When applying, be sure to specify the position and location where you wish to work .

3. Call to confirm after submitting online application.

• After submitting your application online, call that branch or store and ask to speak to the hiring manager .

• Provide a brief and polite introduction, for example:

  "My name is Linh, and I just applied online for a waitress position at your restaurant. I would like to ask about your application review process."

• This approach helps you demonstrate initiative and seriousness, making a good impression on your manager.

4. Things to note when applying for part-time jobs

• Have your personal information, class schedule, contact phone number, and referral details (if any) ready.

• Please double-check the spelling, information, and attachments before submitting your application.

• After about 5–7 days , if you haven't received a response, you can politely contact them again to inquire about the results.

Tip 8: Follow up on your job application after submitting it.

After submitting your application, don't wait in silence for too long . Actively following up shows your seriousness and enthusiasm, and attracts the recruiter's attention. However, it needs to be done correctly and at the right time to avoid causing inconvenience.

1. When is the right time to contact me again?

• Wait approximately 5–7 days after submitting your application before calling.

• Hiring managers are often very busy , so not responding immediately doesn't mean they're not interested.

• After this time, you can call to confirm the status of your application in a polite and professional manner.

2. How to properly call to inquire about the results.

• When you call, please ask to speak to the hiring manager .

• A brief introduction, for example:

  "Hello, my name is Minh. Last week I submitted my application for a sales position at your store. I would like to ask if you have reviewed my application yet?"

• If they haven't seen it yet, you can add:

  "Yes, I understand. I'll contact you again in a few days. Thank you for taking the time to listen."

• The tone should be friendly, humble, unhurried, and not pressure-inducing .

3. Document and track the application process.

• Create a simple tracking spreadsheet (using Excel or Google Sheets) to manage submitted applications:

  • Column 1: Company name and contact phone number

  • Column 2: Date of application submission

  • Column 3: Follow-up date (contacting back)

  • Column 4: Notes (e.g., “Called – interview scheduled for October 25th”)

• This method helps you manage your applications scientifically, ensuring you don't miss any opportunities , especially if you're applying to multiple places at the same time.

4. The benefits of proper follow-up

• Show that you are proactive, responsible, and genuinely interested in your work .

• This will help you score points with employers , as very few students bother to call back after submitting their applications.

• Sometimes, a follow-up call can be the stepping stone to getting an immediate interview invitation .

Tip 9: Research the company before the interview.

One of the key secrets to making a good impression during an interview is to thoroughly prepare information about the company you're applying to . Understanding the company well not only helps you feel more confident when answering questions , but also shows that you are proactive and genuinely interested in the job .

1. Why is it important to do research before an interview?

• This will help you answer naturally and persuasively when asked, "Why do you want to work here?"

• This shows you are serious and have a clear direction , rather than just applying randomly.

• This helps you ask intelligent questions to demonstrate genuine interest in the job.

2. How to find information about the company

• Visit the company's official website or Facebook page to see:

  • Main areas of activity, products, or services

  • Service style, uniforms, work culture

  • Branches and workplaces near you

• If it's a large chain or brand (like Lotteria, Circle K, CGV, The Coffee House…), try visiting as a customer to observe the actual working atmosphere .

• Ask acquaintances who have worked there , if any, for more information about working hours, salary, and work environment .

3. Prepare a few questions to ask the recruiter in return.

During interviews, recruiters often ask, "Do you have any questions for us?" — and this is your chance to make a good impression. Here are some suggested questions:

• "Could you share more about the qualities the company is looking for in employees ?"

• " What do you like most about working here ?"

• "What are the typical tasks of an employee during a shift?"

• " Who will I be working with , and are there many other students working part-time here?"

4. Tips to show you're prepared

• Bring a small notebook to jot down key points or questions you want to ask.

• Before the interview, practice introducing yourself and explaining why you want to work there, based on the information you've gathered.

• Maintain a sincere and natural attitude , as this will always make you stand out from other candidates.

Tip 10: Arrive at the interview early and prepare thoroughly.

First impressions are always important — especially when you're a student starting a part-time job. Arriving early, dressing neatly, and bringing your CV shows that you are serious about the job and respect the employer.

1. Arrive 15 minutes early before your interview time.

• Arrive 10–15 minutes early to allow time to adjust your attire, calm down, and observe the workspace.

• Arriving on time or a little early shows that you are reliable and professional , even if you are just a student.

• If any unforeseen circumstances (traffic jams, rain, etc.) cause you to be late, please call ahead to show respect.

2. Dress neatly, cleanly, and appropriately for the job.

• There's no need to wear a suit or overly formal attire, but your clothes should be neat, clean, wrinkle-free, and well-fitting .

• Choose a style similar to that of the company's employees to show that you fit in with the work environment .

  • For example, if the staff wear polo shirts and khaki pants , you can choose a similar style.

  • If it's a fashion store, choose clothing that aligns with the brand's style —this demonstrates your aesthetic sense and shows you understand the company's image.

• Avoid wearing revealing, overly flashy clothing or competitor brand apparel (especially when interviewing at a fashion store).

3. Bring only the necessary items.

• A printed copy of your CV (even if you submitted it online).

• A pen and a small notebook for taking notes or answering questions.

• Basic personal documents if required (photocopy of ID card/citizen identification card, student card, etc.).

4. Tips for scoring well in an interview

• Smile, greet politely, and give a light handshake (if appropriate).

• Maintain good posture, confident eye contact , and speak naturally, without appearing overly tense.

• At the end of the interview, thank the interviewer and wish them a good day – a small gesture, but one that will make you memorable.

Tip 11: Listen and answer interview questions confidently and skillfully.

When it comes to the interview stage, the most important thing is not just answering correctly, but demonstrating a confident, honest attitude and actively listening . Employers want to understand who you are and whether you're a good fit for the job—not just your experience.

1. Listen carefully before responding.

• When the interviewer asks a question, look them in the eye and listen attentively to the entire question .

• Don't rush to answer. Pause for 2-3 seconds to think, organize your thoughts clearly, and then speak. This will help you answer coherently and without hesitation.

2. Maintain positive eye contact and body language.

• Maintain gentle eye contact , avoiding looking down or constantly shifting your gaze.

• Sit up straight, smile naturally , and show genuine interest as you listen to the interviewer.

• If you agree or understand, you can nod slightly to show you are paying attention.

3. Answer honestly and specifically.

• Employers aren't looking for perfection; they want to know you're genuine and trustworthy .

• If you lack experience, state that clearly, but emphasize your willingness to learn and your hard work .

  • For example: "I've never worked as a server before, but I really enjoy interacting with people and I always try to learn quickly to do the job well."

• For open-ended questions like "Can you tell me about yourself?" or "Why do you want to work here?", answer briefly, positively, and express your desire to contribute.

4. Tips to help you answer interview questions more smoothly.

• Practice speaking in front of a mirror or have a family member play the role of a recruiter to improve your reflexes.

• Prepare 3–4 sample answers for common questions such as:

  • "What are your strengths?"

  • "Can you work in a team?"

  • "What do you hope to gain from a part-time job?"

Tip 12: Send a thank-you note after the interview to make a professional impression.

One subtle yet highly effective way to make a good impression and be remembered is to send a thank-you note after the interview . This is a small habit but it shows respect, tact, and professionalism—even if you're just a student working part-time.

1. Send a thank-you note within 24 hours of the interview.

• Please send the thank-you email on the same day or at the latest the following day .

• If you know the interviewer's email address, send it directly. Otherwise, you can ask a staff member at the interview location to forward it for you.

• For traditional businesses (e.g., coffee shops, small shops), you can write a short thank-you card by hand , as long as the handwriting is clear and legible.

2. Simple and sincere thank-you message examples

You can write it briefly like this:

Email subject: Thank you for taking the time to interview me today.

Content:
Thank you so much for taking the time to chat and for sharing more about your work today.
I am very impressed with your work environment and hope to have the opportunity to become a part of your team.

Have a great workday!

[Your name]

3. Why should we send thank-you notes?

• Make a professional impression: Show that you are considerate and value opportunities.

• Help recruiters remember you: Among dozens of applicants, a sincere thank-you email helps you stand out.

• Demonstrate proactiveness: Employers will see you as someone who is eager to learn and serious about their work.

4. A few things to keep in mind when sending thank-you notes.

• Check the spelling, grammar, and interviewer's name before submitting.

• Maintain a natural writing style, avoiding excessive formality or flattery .

• If you are genuinely interested in the position, you can subtly mention your desire to work with them .

Tip 13: Proactively call back if you haven't received a response after the interview.

Not all employers will contact you immediately after an interview — especially when they have other candidates. Therefore, proactively calling back to inquire about the results shows your interest and eagerness to learn, as long as you do it at the right time and with a polite attitude.

1. Wait approximately 5–7 days before calling back.

• If the employer specifies a response timeframe during the interview, please respect that timeframe.

  • For example, if they say they'll contact you during the week, you can call back on Friday afternoon to check on the situation.

• If they don't specify a timeframe , wait about 3–5 days before calling back. Calling too soon might make you seem impatient or anxious.

2. When making a call, keep it brief and professional.

• Call the person who interviewed you directly (or the hiring manager, if applicable).

• Brief introduction:

  "Hello, I'm [Name], the person who interviewed for the [job title] position on [interview date]."
  I called to ask if you have made a decision regarding this position yet.

• If they haven't made a decision yet, you can gently say:

  "Yes, thank you. I'm still very much looking forward to the opportunity to work with your team."

3. Some tips to make your calls more effective.

• Choose a suitable time to call — usually in the afternoon after 2 p.m. , when managers are less busy.

• Prepare your speech in advance so you don't stammer or ramble.

• Maintain a gentle, respectful tone , and absolutely avoid any pushy or complaining attitude.

4. If you haven't been accepted yet – maintain a positive attitude.

• Regardless of the outcome, thank them for taking the time to review your application.

• Maintain polite contact, because sometimes new opportunities will come unexpectedly if they remember you during the next recruitment round.

Tip 14: Create your own job opportunities – earn money from your skills.

Not every place offers many job opportunities for students, and sometimes you'll find being your own boss – earning money with your own skills – more appealing. If you're proactive and want to challenge yourself, starting a small business you create yourself is a great way to learn skills, build responsibility, and increase your income.

1. Leverage your existing skills to make money.

• Think about what you're good at – because any skill, if it brings value to others, can become a job.

• Here are some popular and easy-to-get-start ideas:

  • Babysitting, walking the dog, mowing the lawn, or washing the car at home.

  • Tutor younger students in the subjects you excel at.

  • Sell ​​handmade items, accessories, and snacks online.

  • Take photos, shoot videos, or edit content for others.

  • Help manage social media for individuals or small businesses — especially if you're a tech-savvy Gen Z.

2. Basic preparation before starting

• Define the services you provide : what you do, for whom, and in what area.

• Calculate a reasonable price : refer to market prices, start low to build credibility, and gradually increase it as you gain regular customers.

• Self-promotion :

  • Create a separate social media page to showcase your services.

  • Thanks to referrals from friends and family – the reputation built through acquaintances always carries significant weight.

  • Post in local community groups (Facebook, Zalo, school, neighborhood).

3. Things to note when working freelance

• Keeping promises, working on time, and being responsible —these are the foundations for customer trust and repeat business.

• Manage your time wisely so it doesn't negatively impact your studies .

• If you have a stable job and income, you should keep a record of your expenses and income to learn how to manage your finances early on.

4. Developing a "mastery" mindset from a young age.

• Start small, but think big and take it seriously.

• Even small-scale self-employment experiences hone your communication, negotiation, organizational, and self-management skills—valuable foundations for the future.

Learn about labor laws for students before starting work.

Before taking on a job or starting your own business, you should clearly understand the regulations regarding working hours for those under 18. This not only helps protect your rights but also demonstrates your responsibility and seriousness about your work.

1. Understand the time limits for students working part-time.

• In many localities, people under 18 are not allowed to work more than the prescribed number of hours per day or per week .

• Typically, you will be asked:

  • Do not work more than 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week.

  • No night shifts or strenuous work.

  • Breaks are necessary , especially if working continuously for many hours.

• Some places even have specific working hours for students during the school year and summer vacation.

Tip: Before signing a job offer, ask your employer for clarification or check the regulations at your local Department of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs to avoid potential problems.

2. Don't expect the employer to understand the law for you.

Not all employers are familiar with the laws regarding child labor. Therefore, you need to educate yourself to protect yourself , especially when working part-time or seasonally.

3. Additional suggestions from experienced individuals – ideas for legitimate and safe ways for students to earn money:

• Teach music or a skill you're good at:

  • If you know how to play a musical instrument like guitar, piano, ukulele, etc., you can teach young children who are just starting out.

  • Make sure you have a solid grasp of the basics and know how to communicate effectively.

  • Basic music textbooks or materials can be shared with students for them to learn from.

• Make and sell creative, handcrafted products:

  • Utilize your crafting skills to make keychains, paintings, handmade items, or small decorations.

  • You can sell online (Shopee, Facebook, Instagram) or sell directly at school or in your neighborhood.

  • Personalized handcrafted items are often priced higher by customers because of their uniqueness.

4. The benefits of learning the law and choosing a suitable job.

• It helps you work safely, legally , and avoid being exploited.

• Developing independence and discipline are two crucial elements for early maturity in the workplace.

• Lay the groundwork for a better understanding of labor rights, income, and social responsibilities from an early age.

References

1. https://www.careeronestop.org/GetMyFuture/Employment/find-job-openings.aspx
2. https://www.careeronestop.org/GetMyFuture/employment/ideas-for-first-jobs.aspx
3. https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/whd/youthrules/YouthEmploymentGuide.pdf
4. https://blog.careeronestop.org/5-tips-teens-looking-summer-job/
5. https://www.reynolds.k12.or.us/rhs/job-search-tips-teens
6. https://www.cityofboston.gov/images_documents/Teen_Resume_Guide_tcm3-31427.pdf
7. https://www.careeronestop.org/GetMyFuture/employment/job-applications.aspx
8. https://talent.works/2019/02/15/dear-addie-should-i-follow-up-after-submitting-an-application/
9. https://money.usnews.com/careers/applying-for-a-job/articles/what-teens-must-know-before-starting-a-first-job

Translated by: Rowan Hudson Le .