Bonneville America Forums Forums Off Topic Discussion Forums Lounge fast food job advice

Time to pick the collective brains on here... My grandson, age 19, is applying for his first job among the various fast food resturants. This is one of the few fields I have absolutely no experience in. Interview at Pizza H is Sunday. While I can coach him on interview preparation, what can he expect in the fast food work environment? And, any interview tips? He's a pretty good lad, is polite, but is not what I would call a "self starter", mostly due to he hasn't had that much life experience. Advice for him, anyone?

Used to own a restaurant, not fast food, but not fine dining either. However, the entry-level experience is similar. He'll more than likely get the crap jobs at first and then get to deal with the fellow employees, some of which will be good, some of which maybe not so much. The important things would be to show up, show up on time, do what you're asked to do, don't try to tell management how to do things, and above all have a good attitude. In addition, pay attention as it may serve to be a valuable learning experience. My oldest has been waiting tables at the local Steak'n Shake for 3 years while she's in nursing school and among other things has figured out that she'd rather not make a career of it like some of her coworkers. Good luck to him.

+1 to the above. I was in the pizza biz for about 8 years. If this is his first job, he'll be exposed to an entirely new level of peer pressure. As long as he keeps his head straight, does what he's told and shows up on time he'll be fine. After he learns the lay of the land, have him observe the others and learn how they do their jobs. The more he can do, the more valuable he will become. Keep in mind, most managers in FF were not selected from the ones who do the best job, but from ones willing to kiss the ass of the GM and able to effectively blame others for any mistakes that happen. There are two kinds of people in the business. Those using it as a stepping stone to a higher calling and those who will never escape the lower rungs of society. Since misery loves company, those employees will try to pull him into their sphere, which might not be best for his long term goals. Make sure he keeps his head on straight.

What position is he applying for? I may be able to elaborate with some tricks of the trade.

I cannot over emphasize the importance of showing up when scheduled and on time. The best worker in the world is of no value if he's not there when you need him! Its probably the most difficult concept for teenagers to comprehend.

One thing that got me jobs before I went to a full referral union career, back when dirt was relatively new, was to tell prospective employers that "I would learn to do my job the company way. Of course I was lying, but just saying that would get me hired, even when the competition was stiff.

My first taxable job was at a pizza joint. I actually enjoyed it quite a bit, and even moved up to delivery driver. That's where the real money is
My first job was as a shoe shine boy at a local car dealership, I set up in the waiting area... I think I charged 50 cents for a pair. I was 9 years old... good times

I know its typical for youths to start out in fast food chains, but I would advise that while he does not omit them he should hit up places that do other things, like manufacturing, hardware and lumber. My first job was with the city as ground maintainance. I later worked for a roofer. While I was still in high school I worked at quick stop muffler and brake shop.
There are many entry level jobs out there. I would say find what he likes or is interested in and seek related entry level jobs. Or jobs that help develope useful skills toward what he is interested in.

A first job is a first job. It's stepping into the world of the working class. Gotta start somewhere. A fast food joint is as good as any. But if that one doesn't fan out, there are always other opportunities, as tour guide, animation for amusement parks, ... all things that will force him to work and engage with people which might help with him not being a "self starte".

The important thing is to keep his head high, an opened mind and learn as much as the job can offer. It may or may not be what he wants later, but learning what you like and dislike in a job is just as important.

I knew I couldn't work inside a kitchen or office when I was young, so I took the courses and became a lifeguard in summer. Later on, I added ski instructor during winters. The life outdoors, that was for me.

leave the cell phone in the car. talked to an employer the other day and said the yutes absolutely cannot put away the thing. can't work for texting.

In an interview (i currently have 23 staff directs and indirects) i always want to hear things like.

i am willing to learn new things
i would appreciate an opportunity to earn my spot
i can take direction well and i understand policy
I will be here when i am asked to be here and on time
i can learn to adapt and am looking forward to new challanges.

those sorts of things, good character is important i should think for most positions but certainly in the hospitality business, you can learn the rest easy enough i should think.

Thanks for the great feedback, fella's! I'm gonna share this info with him on Saturday.