Ideas for hiring high school students, from a high school student
Apr 17, 2023
By: Elizabeth Perron
High school students are the perfect applicants for marina work, but how does the marina attract those high school students?
As a high school student myself, I and my peers are beginning to look for summer jobs and working at a marina is the perfect seasonal placement. As someone who currently has a summer job at a marina, here are some insights into what we (the students) are looking for, and an example job posting!
Marketing a position to a teenager means thinking about what parts of the position would appeal to the age group. For marina work, there are multiple aspects that should be, but often are not, included in a job posting. Firstly, being outside is a huge pro. In my experience, most ‘student jobs’ require the worker to remain indoors. This eliminates the ability for us to enjoy the summer weather. After spending 10 months inside at school, I’d like to be able to enjoy the summer! At a marina, most of the work is outdoors. This means that we the students, can enjoy the weather and make money at the same time. I for one cannot wait to tell my friends that I got paid to get a tan this summer (even if it is a polo shirt tan)!
The next thing to consider is the social aspect. Something that is very important to ‘young people’ is knowing whether we will have the opportunity to be social while working. In a marina, this is part of the job! When working on a gas dock, I can make polite conversation with the customer. If I am cashing someone out, there is conversation occurring and I also get to talk with coworkers. There are many places to be social, even while working! This is appealing to students especially, as our social life is very important to us. Plus, if it is already part of the job, it will eliminate socializing being a distraction!
There are other small things that will interest teenagers as well. For example, most marinas have a relaxed uniform or dress code. At my school specifically, we need to wear a strict uniform. Therefore, I appreciate going to work and having more freedom for self expression. There is also the consideration that some students may be interested in boating themselves. This means they get experience in something that interests them, while they are working. Finally, do not forget to mention breaks. We are new to the workforce and are always curious about what perks there are for certain jobs. If you offer employees longer, or paid breaks, say so in the job posting! Or, if you have other fun aspects included in the job such as employee of the month, occasional work parties, or seasonal bonuses, include those as well!
Here is an example job posting to get you started!
(blank) marina, now hiring!
Are you interested in being outside and on the water this summer? Are you tired of strict uniforms at work? Join us at (blank) marina to be part of a fun, social, relaxed work environment. Our team enjoys learning about boats and equipment, assisting and socializing with customers, enjoying the summer sun, relaxed uniforms, and 30-minute paid breaks. While there are various tasks that are included in this position, main responsibilities are gas dock and grounds maintenance. We are preferably hiring students for this position, apply now at: (website/email/etc.) *no experience required*!
Good luck attracting the student help you need this summer!
Biography: Elizabeth Perron lives in Waubaushene, Ontario and currently attends St. Theresa’s catholic high school in Midland, Ontario as a grade 12 student. She is working as a co-op student for Kerrwil Media ltd. (Canadian Yachting Media). This summer she will be working at Queens Cove Marina in Victoria Harbour, before carrying on to university to study business and marketing.
