A survey has revealed that only 23% of young people have a once a week job, such as a Saturday job. This is significantly lower than their parents, of which 43% worked once a week. Financial services provider OneFamily revealed the disparity between generations.
Rather than working for a business with set number of contracted hours, teenagers are opting for more relaxed work. This includes occasional shifts in dog walking, cleaning and babysitting. Indeed, 45% of young people are earning money by picking up occasional employment which better suits their schedule.
Interestingly, 25% of young people in full-time education have said that weekend roles cease to exist. In addition, it has also become apparent that one in six businesses no longer desire to employ young people.
Another reason for the percentage drop between generations is the creation of employment apps and technology. Today, young people can pick up shifts for occasional jobs through services such as HireHand, allowing them to earn cash fast. For example, HireHand is a company that puts young people working in hospitality in contact with outlets seeking last minute assistance. These developments would not have been available to their parents and account for a change in working habits between generations. But, often these jobs are not always the most sociable hours if they are to be completed around a young person’s studies.
4 in ten young people seek employment in order to fund big expenses, like a holiday or an expensive gadget.
Whereas 50% seek to spend their money as they wish.
Additionally, some have decided not to work at all because of concerns of being distracted from their education. Out of those who do work, 40% have revealed that working part-time alongside studying has taught them to manage money.
Managing director of children’s savings at OneFamily, Steve Ferrari, has said:
“We would encourage parents to see the benefits of their children working while studying”.
“The lessons that part-time employment can instil, from a good work ethic to earning and budgeting, is invaluable.”
