You have researched the laws in your state and obtained a work permit if it was necessary in your state to do so (for information on work permits in your state click here). Now it is time to search for a job. As you plan to begin your search, you wonder, “Can a 15 year-old work in a clothing store?”

The answer is yes, though it may be a challenge to come across a store that is open to hiring you at 15. It is likely to depend on the area where you live and what clothing stores are close to you.

This blog post will cover:

• Options for 15 year-olds looking to work in a clothing store
• How to get hired at a clothing store at the age of 15
• Other options for employment for 15 year-olds

Options for 15 year-olds looking to Work in a Clothing Store

A job at a clothing store is a logical choice for teenagers that enjoy clothes. Jobs at a clothing store frequently come with an employee discount, meaning you will be able to buy more clothing for your money. That is a definite perk.

You may find it challenging to find a job in a clothing store at the age of 15. There are some retail clothing stores that seem more open to hiring 15 year-olds than others. The following are reported to be more open in regards to age:

• Hollister
• Abercrombie & Fitch
• PacSun
• Forever 21
• Old Navy
• Kohls

Each location of the clothing store may have different age requirements and it may be easier to get a job in a clothing store in some cities or states than in others.  A full list of other clothing stores can be found by searching here.

Remember, that it is important to have an idea of the child labor laws and work permit requirements in the state where you live prior to beginning your job search. Click here for more information on child labor laws and work permit requirements in your state.

How to get hired at a Clothing Store at the age of 15

The stores that are open to hiring younger teens are typically looking to hire employees that are able to easily represent what the store is selling, are confident and have good communication skills.

When you are seeking to be hired at a clothing store at the age of 15, it is important that you dress appropriately when making contact with the store manager. Choose clothing items that are sold at the store where you are applying, or that are very similar to items the store sells.

For a store that you are interested in working at, rather than applying online, visit the store. Dress neatly and in attire that is a fit for the store itself. Stand tall and hold your head high. Remind yourself that you have a lot to offer the store and there is no reason why they should not consider hiring you.

Walk into the store with confidence and ask to speak with a manager. If no manager is available, that is okay. Introduce yourself and then ask either the manager (if they are available) or the staff person for an application. Once you are given the application, you can ask the following:

• Are you currently hiring?
• If not, when do you anticipate next hiring?
• Who should I return the application to?
• When should I follow up on my application?
• Who should I follow up with?

Asking these questions will show that you are confident and have good communication skills, while helping you to obtain important information. Employers will be interested in hiring someone who displays these skills.

It is a good idea to complete the application onsite, or if more comfortable, outside of the store where you can find a table. You can then immediately return the completed application.

For more information on applying for a job in person, click here.

Other Options for Employment for 15 Year Olds

While you may find it challenging to obtain employment at a clothing store when you are 15 years-old, there are plenty of other employment opportunities that you can consider. The following are a few options that you can look into:

• Grocery stores: bagging groceries and returning carts are great entry level opportunities
• Fast food restaurants: McDonald’s and Burger King are great places to start
• Restaurants: some restaurants will hire younger teens to bus tables
• Deliver newspapers
• Start your own lawn mowing or yard care business
• Offer to babysit
• Offer dog walking and pet sitting services
• If you enjoy writing, and have an interest you are excited about, consider building a website of your own.

While working on your own may sound scary, it is a great opportunity to build your own business and develop important skills at a young age.

For more ideas to earn money when you are 15 years-old, click here.

While it may be challenging to obtain a job at a clothing store at 15, it is possible to do so. Remember that no matter your age, a key to getting a job is to keep trying. You may not get hired the first time that you apply for a job (in fact you likely won’t) and that is normal. It is important to not give up and to keep applying for opportunities.

So, what do you think about whether 15 year olds can work in clothing stores?  Do you agree with what was said above?  What clothing stores have you found to be open to hiring 15 year-olds. Comment below to let us know!