What will I find on this website?
You will find explanations and examples of what is appropriate to put on a teen website for professional use.
Why do teens need a professional website?
Many teens have a social networking account which they use to share pictures, their creative writing, and their conversations between friends. It is great information to share, but it is only being used a social tool. A professional website is a great way of teaching teens at an early age to use the internet to make themselves stand out from others. It is great place to archive jobs experience, volunteer experience, and school projects. Their website essentially becomes a virtual portfolio as they prepare for college and beyond. Additionally, teens will gain a very marketable skill.
What should teens include on their professional website?
Teens should start with four pages:
- Home
- Resume
- Projects
- Hobbies
Why do you call it Professional?
Although teens are not professionals yet, it is good to get in the mindset of creating a professional identity. If teens just call it a website, that may lead them to include information that does not lead to future professional opportunities.
Who should use this resource?
Anyone who is helping teens develop their own professional websites and teens who are interested in developing their own professional websites should use this resource.
What about teen privacy?
I am very explicit about not posting information that reveals specific identifying information. I also urge teens to converse with their parents/guardians about what is appropriate for them to share. It is up to the parents' discretion as to how much information is enough. I provide a baseline of what to post that will not be to revealing. Refer to the following websites for privacy tips when using the internet.
If you use this website to create your own professional, please share the web address and it will be linked to this website.
All teens under 18 are strongly urged to speak with parents before creating or posting any material for their website.
