Respect in the Workplace...as Teenage Entreprenuers

Ok well first off I would like to introduce myslef: Matthew Kelly. I am the Lead Technician and a Web Developer for EagleEnvision.NeT. I really admire and appreciate Zack's time into our blog so I will be adding more of my own in hopes to share our company experiences, as well as my own.

A main challenge for any high school student- whether they are on the 'straight A' honor roll or just wanting out of school and want to get into other things in life- is that we are all labeled "TEENAGER" right across the forhead. (We) don't see it but its there to anyone and everyone you meet. There is a level of difficulty trying to establish ourselves an professional, on-time, bright, smart, and handsome young businessmen.....
QUESTION : WHY?
ANSWER : BECAUSE WE ARE STILL IN HIGH SCHOOL

It's not a question of our talent. It is everyone who degrates their view of us- or to any young entreprenuers due to our age. Something that not everyone sees is that- age has nothing to do with quality, customer satisfaction, and an outstanding reputation. ~~I'm sure that~~ - I know that EagleEnvision.NeT is better than other companies out there....maybe not in all aspects but in most. We care about what we do, how we present ourselves, and how we can make ourselves better. When was the last itme you talked to a 17-year-old and walked away: A- Complimenting and showing respect them or B- Standing in awe as you were told what the have already managed to do in the 17 years they have been alive. Well we like to think the answer to that is A and B.

Let's face it: 9 times out of 10 the original price estimate sets questionable with a person due to age.

Conclusion..... what do you think? -really I mean thats the answer.... [ valid points vs. stereotyping]

As I continue to blog I will share more experiences in the business world aspect.

Feedback

# re: Respect in the Workplace...as Teenage Entreprenuers

Having used your services, I'm impressed and have no doubt that the quality has only improved. I think one worry you may run into is that you are both bright wiz kids and it is hard not picturing you going on to college. There may be some reluctance to sign you up for a big project because of the question of your priorities after high school.
2/10/2008 5:56 PM | Joe Hauptmann

# re: Respect in the Workplace...as Teenage Entreprenuers

I understand your situation completely as I was once in your shoes and to a point I still am there. I opened up my own computer repair shop at 13 and many people didn't give me the time of day because of my age. 12 years later, people still think of me as too young to be in the position(s) I am in. "Being 25, you can't be Senior in anything." I hear it all the time. I get to smile big when I prove them wrong.

My advice to you gents is to keep your head up and try your best to ignore the stereotypes people place on you. It is hard but it is also worth the effort because while they are focusing on your age, you are focusing on your career; who's the immature one in that situation?

Here's to you, good luck, and have fun!

God Bless,
Joe Davis 2/24/2008 5:37 PM | Joe Davis

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