Recently, some employers were polled to find out which skills are most important for young people working at their first jobs to have. This guide discusses how parents can help children prepare for the work world. Employers are interested in the academic skills of young people and use job application forms and interviews to evaluate them. They want employees to have the ability to learn quickly and to have basic English and mathematics skills. They will usually train workers in the special skills needed for a particular job, but most want employees to have problem-solving ability, the ability to communicate, and the ability to do manual tasks. In addition, employers look for desirable work-related habits and attitudes. Parents can help children prepare for the work world by making sure they have the academic and vocational skills. This begins with finding out what they are learning in school and arranging extra instruction if needed. Parents also can communicate their own experiences to help children know what to expect in the work world. (SLD)