The Teen Entrepreneur: A New Kind Of Competitor

USA Today recently published an article on how the teen entrepreneur is finding his/her way around the diminishing job market.

There aren’t any more recent figures than 2006, but there were 492,000 individuals younger than 25 who were self-employed and it continues to grow.

Teenagers are finding that jobs that were plentiful in years past, such as fast food restaurants or grocery stores are not as available.  The slim job market has forced teens to look elsewhere for unconventional jobs or create an opportunity for themselves as an entrepreneur.

The article suggests that if teens choose to start their own business, they should do a few things to make the most of their opportunity.

• Get Organized - managing a school schedule, typical teenage interests such as sports and a business will require a great deal of discipline and the ability to set and follow a schedule.

• Surround Yourself With Trusted Advisers - depending on how complex your business is, you may need an attorney and/or an accountant, etc.  No matter the size of your venture, have some experienced and trusted adults close by to help you stay focused and make good decisions.

Starting a business is never easy, but as a teen entrepreneur you’ll face unique hurdles.  To be most successful, surround yourself with trusted and experienced individuals who can help you make the most of your early entrepreneurial years.