Delivering newspapers might seem like a relic of the past, but a paper route can still be a fantastic opportunity for young people (and even adults!) to earn some extra money, get exercise, and learn valuable life skills like responsibility, time management, and customer service. While the traditional image of a kid on a bicycle throwing newspapers might conjure nostalgia, the reality is that paper routes still exist and offer benefits. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of getting a paper route in your local community, from finding available routes to managing your deliveries effectively.
**Why Consider a Paper Route?**
Before diving into the ‘how-to,’ let’s address why you might consider a paper route in the first place. Beyond the obvious financial incentive, here are some compelling reasons:
* **Earning Potential:** While it won’t make you rich, a paper route provides a steady income stream, especially helpful for teenagers saving for something specific.
* **Exercise and Fresh Air:** Forget the gym! A paper route gets you moving, whether you’re walking, cycling, or driving. It’s a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
* **Responsibility and Time Management:** Managing a paper route requires careful planning, organization, and adherence to a schedule. These are valuable life skills that will benefit you in any future endeavor.
* **Independence:** A paper route offers a sense of independence and control over your own earnings.
* **Local Connection:** You’ll become familiar with your neighborhood and build relationships with the people you serve.
* **Resume Builder:** Having a paper route on your resume demonstrates responsibility, work ethic, and customer service skills, which are attractive to potential employers.
**Step 1: Research and Identify Newspaper Publishers in Your Area**
The first step is to identify the newspapers that are delivered in your community. This might seem obvious, but it’s important to be thorough. Don’t just focus on the major daily newspaper; look for local weeklies, community newspapers, and even free advertising papers (like those containing local flyers and coupons). Here’s how to find them:
* **Online Search:** Start with a simple Google search using terms like “newspapers in [your city/town]”, “local newspaper delivery [your city/town]”, or “community newspapers [your county]”.
* **Local Library:** Your local library is an excellent resource for finding information about local publications. Librarians can often point you to newspapers you might not find online.
* **Grocery Stores and Convenience Stores:** Check the newspaper racks at local grocery stores and convenience stores. Note the names of the newspapers and their publishers.
* **Ask Around:** Talk to your neighbors, friends, and family. They might know who delivers newspapers in your area.
* **Check Online Newspaper Directories:** There are online directories that list newspapers by region. Some examples include USNPL.com and ABYZ News Links.
**Create a List:** As you find newspapers, create a list with the following information:
* **Newspaper Name:** The name of the newspaper.
* **Publisher Name:** The name of the publishing company.
* **Contact Information:** Phone number, email address, and website (if available).
**Step 2: Contact Newspaper Publishers and Inquire About Available Routes**
Once you have your list of newspaper publishers, it’s time to contact them and inquire about available routes. Here’s how to do it effectively:
* **Prepare a Script or Email Template:** Before you start calling or emailing, prepare a brief script or email template to ensure you convey the necessary information clearly and professionally. Your script/email should include:
* Your name and age (if applicable).
* Your address (or the general area you’re interested in delivering in).
* Your mode of transportation (walking, bicycle, car).
* Your availability (days of the week and times you’re available).
* A polite inquiry about available paper routes.
* Your contact information (phone number and email address).
* **Contacting by Phone:** When calling, be polite and professional. Introduce yourself and clearly state your purpose for calling. Ask to speak to the person in charge of newspaper delivery or route management. If that person is unavailable, ask when would be a good time to call back.
* **Contacting by Email:** When emailing, use a clear and concise subject line, such as “Inquiry About Available Paper Routes.” Proofread your email carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling. Be sure to include all the necessary information in your email body.
* **Be Persistent but Respectful:** If you don’t hear back from a publisher after a few days, don’t hesitate to follow up with a phone call or email. However, avoid being pushy or demanding.
**Example Phone Script:**
“Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I live at [Your Address]. I’m interested in learning about any available paper routes in my area. I’m available [Days of the Week] and can deliver by [Mode of Transportation]. Could you tell me who I should speak with regarding newspaper delivery routes?”
**Example Email:**
Subject: Inquiry About Available Paper Routes
Dear [Contact Person Name or To Whom It May Concern],
My name is [Your Name], and I am writing to inquire about any available paper routes in the [Neighborhood Name] area. I am [Your Age] years old and live at [Your Address]. I am available to deliver newspapers on [Days of the Week] using [Mode of Transportation].
I am reliable, responsible, and eager to learn. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further with you.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
**Step 3: Evaluate the Available Routes**
Once you’ve identified potential routes, it’s crucial to evaluate them carefully before committing. Consider the following factors:
* **Route Size and Complexity:** How many customers are on the route? How spread out are they? A larger route will take more time and effort.
* **Delivery Schedule:** What time do the newspapers need to be delivered by? Can you realistically meet the delivery deadline?
* **Compensation:** How much will you be paid for delivering the route? Is it a flat rate per week/month, or is it based on the number of customers?
* **Terrain:** Is the route hilly, flat, or a combination of both? This will affect the difficulty of the route, especially if you’re walking or cycling.
* **Weather Conditions:** Consider how the weather might affect your ability to deliver the newspapers. Are there sidewalks that are likely to be icy in the winter?
* **Payment Schedule:** How often will you be paid? Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly? Are there any deductions for missed deliveries or customer complaints?
* **Contract Terms:** Carefully review the contract terms with the newspaper publisher. Pay attention to things like termination clauses, liability insurance, and requirements for handling customer complaints.
**Questions to Ask the Publisher:**
* What is the average delivery time for this route?
* What is the payment structure (flat rate vs. per customer)?
* What happens if a customer cancels their subscription?
* What is the procedure for handling customer complaints?
* Is there any training provided?
* What are the consequences of missed deliveries?
* Is there a minimum age requirement for this route?
* Am I responsible for collecting payments from customers?
* Who provides the newspapers?
* Who do I contact if I have questions or problems?
**Step 4: Negotiate the Terms (If Possible)**
In some cases, you might be able to negotiate the terms of the paper route. For example, you might be able to negotiate a higher payment rate if the route is particularly challenging or time-consuming. You might also be able to negotiate the delivery schedule to better fit your availability. Remember to be polite and professional during negotiations.
**Step 5: Sign the Contract and Complete Any Required Training**
Once you’re satisfied with the terms of the paper route, sign the contract with the newspaper publisher. Before you start delivering newspapers, you may be required to complete some training. This training might cover topics such as:
* Proper delivery techniques.
* Customer service skills.
* How to handle customer complaints.
* Safety procedures.
* How to report problems with your route.
**Step 6: Prepare for Your Route**
Proper preparation is key to a successful paper route. Here’s what you need to do:
* **Plan Your Route:** Before your first delivery, carefully plan your route. Use a map to identify the most efficient way to deliver the newspapers. Consider the terrain and any potential obstacles (e.g., busy streets, dogs).
* **Gather Your Supplies:** Gather the supplies you’ll need for your route, such as:
* A sturdy bag or basket to carry the newspapers.
* Rubber bands or plastic bags to protect the newspapers from the weather.
* A flashlight or headlamp for early morning or late evening deliveries.
* A map of your route.
* A notepad and pen to record any problems or customer requests.
* A cell phone for emergencies.
* **Dress Appropriately:** Dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Wear layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures. Wear sturdy shoes that provide good traction.
* **Notify Your Neighbors:** Let your neighbors know that you’ll be delivering newspapers in the area. This can help prevent misunderstandings and build goodwill.
* **Practice Your Route:** Before your first official delivery, practice your route to get a feel for the terrain and timing. This will help you identify any potential problems and make sure you can deliver the newspapers on time.
**Step 7: Deliver the Newspapers on Time and Accurately**
The most important aspect of a successful paper route is delivering the newspapers on time and accurately. Here are some tips:
* **Be Punctual:** Arrive at the newspaper drop-off point on time to pick up the newspapers. Start your route early enough to ensure you can deliver all the newspapers by the deadline.
* **Be Accurate:** Deliver the newspapers to the correct address. Make sure the newspapers are placed in a safe and dry location (e.g., under a porch roof, in a newspaper tube).
* **Be Neat:** Fold the newspapers neatly and secure them with rubber bands or plastic bags. Avoid throwing the newspapers onto the lawn or driveway.
* **Be Quiet:** Be respectful of your neighbors, especially during early morning deliveries. Avoid making excessive noise.
* **Be Aware of Your Surroundings:** Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of any potential hazards (e.g., traffic, dogs, slippery surfaces).
**Step 8: Provide Excellent Customer Service**
Providing excellent customer service is essential for maintaining a successful paper route. Here are some tips:
* **Be Friendly and Courteous:** Greet your customers with a smile and a friendly word. Be polite and respectful in all your interactions.
* **Respond to Customer Complaints Promptly:** If a customer complains about a missed delivery or a damaged newspaper, respond to the complaint promptly and professionally. Apologize for the inconvenience and take steps to resolve the problem.
* **Be Proactive:** Check in with your customers periodically to see if they have any questions or concerns. Offer to help them with any problems they might be experiencing.
* **Go the Extra Mile:** Go the extra mile to provide excellent customer service. For example, you could offer to bring a customer’s newspaper inside if they are elderly or disabled.
**Step 9: Manage Your Finances Wisely**
A paper route provides an opportunity to learn about managing your finances. Here are some tips:
* **Create a Budget:** Create a budget to track your income and expenses. This will help you see where your money is going and identify areas where you can save money.
* **Save Regularly:** Set aside a portion of your earnings each week or month for savings. This will help you reach your financial goals.
* **Pay Your Bills on Time:** Pay your bills on time to avoid late fees and damage to your credit score.
* **Invest Wisely:** Consider investing a portion of your earnings to grow your wealth over time.
**Step 10: Safety First**
Your safety is paramount. Adhere to these guidelines:
* **Be Visible:** Especially during early morning or late evening deliveries, wear reflective clothing to increase your visibility to drivers.
* **Be Aware of Traffic:** Pay close attention to traffic and cross streets safely. Use crosswalks and traffic signals whenever possible.
* **Beware of Dogs:** Be cautious around dogs, especially those that are not leashed. If you encounter an aggressive dog, avoid eye contact and back away slowly. Report any aggressive dogs to the authorities.
* **Carry a Cell Phone:** Carry a cell phone with you at all times in case of emergencies. Program emergency contact numbers into your phone.
* **Tell Someone Your Route and Schedule:** Let someone know your route and schedule so they know where you are and when to expect you back.
* **Trust Your Gut:** If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable in a particular situation, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation.
**Troubleshooting Common Problems**
Even with careful planning, you might encounter problems. Here are some solutions to common issues:
* **Missed Deliveries:** If you miss a delivery due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances, contact the newspaper publisher immediately. They may be able to arrange for a substitute carrier or provide you with instructions on how to handle the situation.
* **Damaged Newspapers:** If the newspapers are damaged due to weather or other factors, contact the newspaper publisher. They may be able to provide you with replacement newspapers.
* **Customer Complaints:** If a customer complains about a missed delivery or a damaged newspaper, apologize for the inconvenience and take steps to resolve the problem. Offer to redeliver the newspaper or provide a credit for the missed delivery.
* **Difficult Customers:** You might encounter difficult customers from time to time. Remain calm and professional in your interactions with these customers. Try to understand their concerns and find a solution that satisfies both parties. If you are unable to resolve the issue, contact the newspaper publisher for assistance.
* **Payment Issues:** If you experience problems with your payment, contact the newspaper publisher immediately. Keep accurate records of your deliveries and payments to help resolve any discrepancies.
**Paper Routes in the Digital Age**
While the core principles of delivering newspapers remain the same, the digital age has brought some changes to the paper route landscape.
* **Digital Subscriptions:** The rise of digital subscriptions has led to a decline in print subscriptions in some areas. This might mean fewer paper routes are available.
* **Online Payment Systems:** Many newspaper publishers now use online payment systems, which can make it easier for carriers to track their earnings and manage their finances.
* **GPS Tracking:** Some publishers use GPS tracking to monitor the location of their carriers and ensure that newspapers are being delivered on time and accurately.
* **E-Paper Deliveries:** Some publishers are experimenting with e-paper deliveries, which involve delivering digital newspapers to tablets or other electronic devices.
**Beyond Newspapers: Expanding Your Delivery Options**
Consider expanding your delivery services to include other items, such as flyers, coupons, or local advertising materials. This can help you increase your earnings and diversify your income stream. Talk to local businesses about delivering their flyers or coupons to households in your area.
**Is a Paper Route Right for You?**
Getting a paper route is a significant commitment that requires responsibility, time management, and dedication. However, it can also be a rewarding experience that provides you with valuable skills and a steady income stream. Carefully consider the pros and cons before deciding if a paper route is right for you.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to find and manage a successful paper route in your local community. Good luck, and happy delivering!