How do I motivate my 17 yr old to get a job?

[Mim71]

I canceled both of my teens cell phones because our budget is tight right now.  Its been a very rough year.  I think it may be a good thing.....I want to encourgage them to be more independent and to start working part time.  Then they can buy their own phone. 

Also he is getting his learner's permit soon and driving my car for the 9 months with me and I thought a job would let him start saving for car insurance.  He still isnt too quick about filling out applications though.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!

[MarcellaFL]

tell him "As your parents we are required to provide you with food, basic clothing needs, health care and housing until you turn 18. There is no room in the budget for extras. no car. no social activities. no cell phone. no video games." Then stick to it.

[seriousbookworm]

Don't feel bad: mine has a job but won't stop spending $ on stupid things like $40 baseball caps.
He's in for a rough time come January when he gets his license and can't drive because he blew all his $$ on crap instead of saving for gas/insurance.
Our ds got a job because he wanted to buy stuff that I wouldn't-like xbox games, etc.
Don't really have any advice, except I have found what motivates boys is 1) girls and 2) looking cool for girls
Now that I have reminded ds that I will not be paying for insurance/gas, and that I will have to drive him and his girlfriends on dates, he has decided he needs to save money. Imagine that....