Why a Paper Round Is a Great First Job for Teens
If you’re looking for your first ever job, a paper round is one of the best starter jobs for teenagers you can get. It teaches real-world skills, gives you independence, and helps you earn your own money long before most teens even start thinking about work. Here’s why a paper round is worth considering.
1. It lets you start earning earlier than most jobs
Most part-time jobs require you to be at least 15 or 16, but many paper rounds allow you to start at 13. That means you can begin earning pocket money two or three years earlier than your friends.
The pay isn’t huge, but it’s steady and predictable. Ideal for saving up for clothes, tech, hobbies or your first big purchase.
2. It builds a routine without taking over your life
Paper rounds usually take 30–60 minutes in the morning before school. It’s a simple way to learn responsibility while still keeping your evenings and weekends free.
Alternatively, think about delivering a local magazine. I’ve just got a job delivering a magazine that goes out six times a year. It’s a great way to start earning without making a daily commitment.
There’s something motivating about getting up early, finishing your round and knowing you’ve already achieved something before the day has even started.
3. You learn essential life skills
You’ll pick up skills that employers genuinely care about:
- Time management
- Organisation and route planning
- Communication
- Money handling (if you collect payments)
- Working independently
These are the exact skills that set you apart when applying for weekend jobs later on.
4. You get daily exercise without thinking about it
Walking or cycling your route gets you fresh air and movement every day, which is especially useful if you spend long hours in school or on screens.
5. It’s a safe, supported first step into working
Paper rounds are low-pressure and local. You’re shown exactly what to do, and you work for a small business that’s used to employing young people. Parents also tend to feel more comfortable with this type of job because it’s nearby and finished early.
6. You can get a reliable reference for future jobs
One of the biggest advantages of a paper round, and something many teens don’t realise, is that your newsagent or delivery manager can give you a reference.
This helps you when:
- Applying for weekend jobs at 15 or 16
- Asking for more responsibility later
- Building your CV as you head into college or apprenticeships
A paper round proves you can turn up on time, follow instructions and be trusted to work alone. That kind of reference carries a lot of weight, especially when it’s the very first job on your CV.
7. It makes it easier to get better jobs later
Because it gives you real-world experience, your paper round makes future applications much stronger. Employers love seeing that you’ve already shown commitment and reliability – qualities that can be rare in younger applicants.
8. You gain independence (and money you earned yourself)
Earning your own money feels good. Whether you save it or spend it, a paper round gives you more independence and teaches you to manage money responsibly from a young age.
