Brand spotlight

Does Target Hire 16-Year-Olds?

Target hires 16-year-olds for guest advocate, cart attendant, and style team roles in many stores across the United States. Because Target is known for organized aisles and friendly service, stores seek teens who bring positive energy, excellent communication, and attention to detail. Showing up with a resume, availability grid, and genuine enthusiasm for helping guests navigate the store makes you a strong candidate, even without prior retail experience.

Before applying, explore Target's corporate values of inclusivity, community support, and guest-obsessed service. Think about how you have demonstrated similar values at school or in clubs. Target appreciates teen applicants who can describe how they stay organized during busy periods, anticipate guest needs, and work well in a team. Mention technology comfort, including handheld scanners, mobile checkout devices, or inventory apps, because these skills help you ramp up faster once hired.

Expect interview questions about teamwork, reliability, and how you respond to unexpected situations. Practice explaining how you handle simultaneous requests, keep your area clean, and communicate respectfully with guests of all ages. Bring a well-prepared availability grid that covers evenings, weekends, and upcoming holidays. Stores rely on consistent coverage, so clarity around class schedules, extracurriculars, and transportation builds trust with the hiring team.

After the interview, send a concise thank-you note summarizing what excites you about the store, such as their seasonal displays or community involvement. If you have not heard back within a few days, send a polite follow-up message or visit the store to reiterate your interest. Target managers regularly hire teens who stay proactive and demonstrate the company's guest-first mindset.

Apply online

Create a Target Workday account and search for entry-level positions like Guest Advocate or Style Consultant. Filter by stores within a safe commute and check that the posting lists 16 as the minimum age.
Gather your resume, references, and a short cover note that highlights customer service examples, organizational skills, and schedule flexibility. Convert documents to PDF to preserve formatting.
Complete the online application with attention to detail. Use complete sentences, share specific examples of service or leadership, and answer availability questions honestly. Indicate any language skills or technology experience.
Monitor your Workday dashboard for updates. If the status does not change after three business days, call the store and ask for the HR representative or ETL-HR to confirm receipt of your application.

Walk-in application tips

Visit during slower hours, typically late morning or early afternoon on weekdays. Dress in Target-inspired colors, such as a red top and khaki bottoms, bring your resume, and approach the guest services desk with a smile.
Introduce yourself, mention that you applied online, and ask to speak with the leader on duty. Share a quick story about helping classmates, organizing events, or covering responsibilities without being asked.
Ask about the store's busiest times and how teen team members contribute during holidays. Take notes on expectations around cross-training or cashier duties so you can reference them in follow-ups.
Thank the leader for their time, leave your resume folder, and ask when it is appropriate to check back. Send a follow-up email the same day if you receive a business card or contact address.

Resume bullets you can copy

Resume bullet 1

Leads class projects with organized task lists and follow-ups; keeps teammates aligned and calm when deadlines approach.

Resume bullet 2

Supports school events by greeting guests, directing traffic, and solving problems quickly with a friendly attitude.

Resume bullet 3

Comfortable with mobile checkout, point-of-sale devices, and inventory apps; learns new systems through tutorials and practice.

Resume bullet 4

Available afternoons, evenings, and weekends; communicates schedule changes early and volunteers for holiday shifts.

Finish your packet

Pair these bullets with a polished resume and an availability grid. Managers at Target hire faster when teens walk in prepared.

Open resume builder Plan availability

Frequently asked questions

Does every Target store hire at 16?Show

Most U.S. stores hire 16-year-olds for entry-level roles, but some city locations or specialized departments require applicants to be 18. Check each job listing for specific age requirements.

What should I expect during the interview?Show

Expect situational questions about assisting a confused guest, handling multiple tasks, or resolving a conflict respectfully. Practice giving concise answers using real examples from school or volunteering.

How do I stand out without prior retail experience?Show

Focus on transferable skills like reliability, teamwork, communication, and problem solving. Share stories about organizing school events, leading group projects, or helping in your community. Bring a polished resume and availability grid to reinforce your preparation.

When should I follow up after applying?Show

Follow up within three business days if you have not received an update. Call the store, ask for the HR representative, and politely confirm they received your application. If possible, visit the store to demonstrate initiative.

What training should I expect once hired?Show

Target provides structured onboarding that covers safety, guest interaction, point-of-sale systems, and merchandising. Arrive ready to take notes, ask questions, and practice scenarios so you can assist guests confidently.