Skills 

 to Pay the Bills

Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

3

About the Cover Artist

Brandon Pursley is a senior at Madison County (FL) High School, a member of the Madison County High 

School/High Tech program and one of over 100 young people who participated in the ODEP Soft Skills 

Pilot project (the preliminary “testing” environment for the creation of this publication). During a Soft 

Skills Pilot site visit, the writers of this curriculum had the great fortune to meet Brandon and talk with 

him about his dreams for the future. Brandon mentioned he was an artist, specializing in portraits, and 

showed our team some of his artwork. When Brandon was asked if he would have any interest in 

designing a cover design for these materials, he jumped at the chance.

Brandon has a true passion for art, and wishes to build and enhance his talent by attending art school 

upon graduation. Although he hasn’t had any formal training other than his art classes in high school, 

he is well known by his peers and throughout the community as a very talented artist. He devotes all of 

his spare time drawing portraits of friends, relatives, children, and other subjects. Each portrait’s eyes 

have a way of speaking to you, revealing the person’s personality while captivating the full attention of 

the viewer.

Because of his dedication to art Brandon is always in the process of beginning a new portrait or just 

completing one.

It was our team’s great fortune to meet Brandon during the Soft Skills pilot project.

In Their Own Words

Skills to Pay the Bills: Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success is a true collaboration between 

government and the youth it serves. In fact, the original manuscript is much different, in both form and 

content, than it appears today. More than 100 young people provided honest (and sometimes brutal) feedback 

to the design and content of this publication. 

 Page 139 recounts a number of comments offered during the piloting of these materials.
Skills to Pay the Bills

4

Acknowledgements

The Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) would like to thank all of the 

individuals, organizations, and agencies who contributed to the creation of this project. Without your 

commitment, this soft skills curriculum would not have been possible.

To Day Al-Mohamed, Rhonda Basha, Rachel Dorman, Nehemiah Green, Michael Huberman, Laura Ibanez, 

Jennifer Kemp, Kristen Schiavone, Maria Town, and Taryn Williams, thank you for your long hours and 

dedication to this project - from the initial concept all the way to the final design and dissemination.

To Lucy Baney, Lee Bruno, Dr. Christine Casey, Christina Morfeld, and Leslie Walker-Hirsch for recognizing

the potential impact of this project and taking the first steps towards turning an idea into something

tangible.

Thank you to Katherine DiGiovanni, Lisa Stern, and Carolyn Veneri for your creativity and passion. You 

designed and built a tool that will help young people find good jobs and careers (and have some fun 

along the way). 

Thank you to Patricia Bravo, Scott Emerick, Sylvia Thomas, Sangeeta Tyagi, and Monica Zeno-Martin of 

YouthBuild USA for allowing YBUSA programs the opportunity to preview and offer feedback to these 

materials.

Special thanks is warranted for the generous assistance of the seven youth programs and youth program 

facilitators who took a chance and pilot-tested these materials with their youth participants. Without 

your spirit and willingness to take on the hard work of helping to test out this curriculum, it would not 

reflect the breadth and depth it does today. Thank you to:

• FSW, Inc. WorkSkills, Bridgeport, CT: Pam McRae, Program Coordinator; Rita Renzoni, Instructor

• High School/High Tech (HS/HT), FL: Sally Ash, Assistant Director of the Able Trust's FL HS/HT & 

DMD. Madison County (FL) HS/HT: Mary Coody, Program Director, with Mike Radel, Assistant Program

Director, and Jean James, Program Assistant. The Alachua County HS/HT Program of North Central 

Florida CIL: Amy Tharpe, Program Director, with Stephanie Weeks and Mellissa Merrill, HS/HT 

Project Coordinators

• KentuckianaWorks Youth Center, Louisville, KY: Lorena Lasky, Project Director; Dallas Thornton, 

Career Planner; Virginia Dever, Career Planner; Fanta Hamlin, Career Planner; Emilia Manuola, Lead 

Instructor

• Massachusetts Migrant Education Program (MMEP), Wilmington and Boston, MA: Emily Hoffman, 

Regional Director; Mellisa Brandt, Instructor; Karen Hart, Instructor; Jeuris Taveras, Community 

Liaison

• Project SEARCH, Washington, DC: Lisa Haynes, Instructor, U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services; John Eldridge, Job Coach; Dierdre Williams, Program Manager; Carolyn Price, Job Coach; 

Linda Mahler, Instructor, U.S. Department of Education
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

5

• Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program (RAMP), Denver, CO: Jamie Youngblood, Program 

Coordinator; Erin Ellis, Mentor

• WorkSource/YouthSource, Renton, WA: Jennifer Hill, Youth Program Manager; Kiana Davis, 

Instructor; Victoria West, Instructor

Finally, and most importantly, ODEP is especially grateful to the dedicated group of more than 100 

young adults who were willing to share their valuable insights for this curriculum. You are ALL 

outstanding and we wish you the best in your future career.

The following list of young adults (and/or their guardians) consented to have their names displayed in 

this publication:

Jessica Alexis

Keisha Billington

Andrea Bright 

Andrea Casillas

Rayalshia Daniels

Shionte Davis

Qarquasia Davis

Whitney Davis

Lillie Echols 

Wendy Galvis

Juan Gonzalez

J’Laan Hendricks 

Patrick Henyard 

Kyendra Jackson 

Jamari Jones 

Miosotis Juarbe

Aaron Law 

Asia Luevano

Alaycia McIntyre

Jessica McNeil

Chavario McQuay

Margarita Menchaca

LaShondra Neely

Cassandra Newstead

Jontae Owens 

Giselle Padilla

Brandon Pursley

Shontaye Robinson

Sarah Rudolph 

RaeMisha Sierra

Sierra Sonza 

Allie Spicknall

Bertha Tolosa 

Jasmine Turner

Sonya Wallace

Ebony Wilson

Brittany Stevenson

Breana Sweatt

Ivan Bennett

Curtis Mabry

Kayla Still

Kwamaine House

Alexandria Weidmeyer

Patricia Pierce

Chelsy Wickerson

Troy Booker

Tyrone Hunter

Michael Francis

Brittany Prue

Justine Thomas

Rachael Washington 

Other Contributors include:

Maureen Andrew, Chris Arnette, John Benson, Kevin Bradley, Susan Brennan, Bridget Brown, Larry 

Buynak, Dale G. Caldwell, Julie Chamberlain, Rebecca Cokley, Barbara Conner, Marc Fagan, Lori 

Golden, Gary Goosman, Col. Robert Gordon, Allison Herman Paul, Jennifer Hill, Mitch Holmes, Lois 

Kenneally, Grady Kickul, Zakiya Mabery, Jessie MacKinnon, Jessica Mattis, Marci McGinnis, Joanna 

Mikulski, Kim E. Moss, Dennis Nathanson, Harry Orlick, Peggy Post, Anneka Rogers, Deborah Russell, 

Dawn Stanyon, Matthew P. Stevens, Diane Thames, Betsy Valnes, and John Whitcomb.
Skills to Pay the Bills

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Table of Contents

Introduction.................................................................................................... 7 

Activity Layout................................................................................................ 8 

Through the Lens of Universal Design for Learning................................................... 10 

Tips for Improving Access for Youth with Disabilities................................................. 11 

Communication................................................................................................ 17 

1. What’s Your Point?......................................................................................... 19 

2. Flipping the Switch........................................................................................ 23 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Oh, Puh-leeeeeze!......................................................................................... 26

4. Listen Hear!!................................................................................................ 30

5. Quit Talkin’! I Know What To Do!........................................................................ 32

Enthusiasm & Attitude....................................................................................... 35

6. Never Underestimate the Power of a PMA (Positive Mental Attitude)............................. 36

7. Life is Full of Hard Knocks................................................................................ 38

8. A Super Ball and a Raw Egg............................................................................... 44

9. Believe it or Not: Your Attitude and Enthusiasm Just Might Get You the Job.................... 46

10. Translating Features to Benefits........................................................................ 53

Teamwork....................................................................................................... 56

11. There is no “I” in Team.................................................................................. 58

12. I’ll Give you Some of Mine if You Give me Some of Yours.......................................... 61 

13. The Good, the Bad, and the Reasonable.............................................................. 66 

14. How Many Shapes Does it Take? ........................................................................ 68 

15. Teamwork on the Job.................................................................................... 72 

Networking..................................................................................................... 77 

16. An Introduction to Networking......................................................................... 78 

17. You Expect me to do WHAT? Talk to People?........................................................ 81 

18. Using Social Media to Network........................................................................ 86 

19. Text vs. Email: Does it Really Matter?............................................................... 89 

20. It’s a Small World........................................................................................ 95 

Problem Solving & Critical Thinking...................................................................... 98 

21. Praise, Criticism, or Feedback? ....................................................................... 99

22. Workplace Ethics........................................................................................ 102 

23. Problem Solving on a Team............................................................................. 106 

24. Perception vs. Reality................................................................................... 108 

25. Tell Me About a Time When............................................................................ 111 

Professionalism............................................................................................... 114 

26. Professionalism in Today’s Workforce................................................................ 116 

27. Professional Work Attitudes............................................................................ 119 

28. Teamwork: An Essential Element of Professionalism.............................................. 122 

29. Is It Considered “Professional” to Have Friends in the Workplace?.............................. 126 

30. Self Reflection: Professional Problem Solving at its Best......................................... 129 

A Word about Social Networking.......................................................................... 134 

Additional Resources for Youth with Disabilities...................................................... 137 

In Their Own Words.......................................................................................... 139
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

7

Introduction

According to the 2007 Every Promise, Every Child: Turning Failure into Action report, a large percentage

of young people preparing to enter the workforce over the next two decades are significantly lacking in

the “soft” or applied skills — such as teamwork, decision-making, and communication — that will help

them become effective employees and managers. In addition, in a Job Outlook 2008 survey conducted

by the National Association of Colleges & Employers (NACE), the top characteristics looked for in new

hires by 276 employer respondents were all soft skills: communication ability, a strong work ethic,

initiative, interpersonal skills, and teamwork. Lastly, the Indiana Business Research Center (IBRC) found

that while credentials (degrees and certificates) are important, it is the development of soft skills (those

that are more social than technical) that is critical to developing a strong, vibrant workforce.

Interestingly, research also suggests that soft skills are not just important for first-time employees. 

According to a poll released in June 2008 by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), 

many workplace soft skills have become more important for the experienced professional. These skills 

include critical thinking/problem solving, leadership, professionalism/work ethic, teamwork/collaboration,

and adaptability/flexibility. 

According to the National Collaborative for Workforce and Disability for Youth (NCWD/Youth), the 

development of soft skills is identified as a critical component for success in activities such as civic 

participation and youth leadership in addition to school- and work-based learning experiences. The 

Guideposts for Success, developed by NCWD/Youth in collaboration with its funding agency, the U.S. 

Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), clearly indicate the need for all 

youth to have exposure to training focusing on job seeking and workplace basic skills.

To further explore this important issue, ODEP convened a group of distinguished U.S. businesses in 

2007. During the discussion, participating companies identified the following competencies as key to 

the success of young workers: Communication; Networking; Enthusiasm and Attitude; Teamwork; 

Problem Solving and Critical Thinking; and Professionalism. It was at this meeting that the leaders at 

ODEP thought materials should be made available to youth service professionals to assist them as they 

prepare all youth, including youth with disabilities, for employment. 

Building on that dialogue, the activities in this publication were created to provide an introduction to 

the “basics” of soft skills. These materials have been designed with youth service professionals in mind 

– specifically those working with in-school and out-of-school youth, ages 14 to 21, on career and 

workforce readiness skills. The basic foundation for the structure of these activities includes 

convenience, cost-effectiveness, and creativity. They were designed in such a way as to be easily 

incorporated into current programming and/or already established curricula. 
Skills to Pay the Bills

8

Soft skills cannot be taught in a vacuum nor can they be acquired simply because the goal of a lesson plan

indicates it shall be so. Rather, they must be introduced, developed, refined, practiced, and reinforced.

ODEP is committed to providing resources regarding soft skills in a way that is useful, creative, hands-on

and fundamentally beneficial for all types of youth programs, and thus, all types of learners. The contents

of this publication reflect that commitment. 

Activity Layout

These activities were created for all youth, regardless of disability or differences in learning style, and 

as such have been designed with an inclusive spirit and a structure supporting universal design for 

learning. Each exercise consists of an activity designed to get young people thinking about, practicing, 

and discussing skills important for career and personal success – soft skills. Additionally, these 

activities are not weighed down with instructional methodology or specific teaching strategies, since it 

is the youth service professional who knows his/her audience best, and what might work well for one 

group of youth participants may clearly not work well for another. As a facilitator, you are encouraged 

to modify these activities in any way that better meets the needs and interests of your particular 

group. 

All activities are structured as follows:

JUST THE FACTS: This is the basic purpose of the activity – plain and simple – and is intended to be a 

brief description for the instructor.

Time: A suggested time frame is offered for planning purposes. Of course, as activities

are altered or modified for various reasons, times may invariably change.

Materials: A list of suggested materials for the activity is provided. The goal of the 

basic activity is to keep materials to a minimum.

Directions: Directions, including sample scripts, are offered for convenience. You are 

encouraged to adapt or modify these activities to better resonate with your particular 

audience, as these activities offer an opportunity to tackle some difficult issues and 

conversations.

Conclusion: The conclusion is a guide to engage participants in a thoughtful 

conversation. The goal of this dialogue is to encourage independent ideas and 

reasoning. 
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

9

Journaling Activity: Journaling questions are offered as a way to incorporate personal 

reflection using an individualized means of expression. Participants should be encouraged 

to choose a form of journaling that feels right for them, while also being supported to “test 

the waters” with a technique that might stretch a traditional comfort zone. The following 

alternatives to “traditional” journaling (writing) are offered as suggestions:

• Dictate ideas/thoughts and/or use the computer (with or without voice-recognition 

software)

• Create poems, lists, stream of consciousness, as a method of reflection 

• Draw (cartoons, pictures, etc.)

• Use photography (taking pictures, cutting out magazines) to create collages 

For younger audiences (such as middle school-aged), you may find it necessary to modify 

the suggested journal questions to better reflect age, experience, and environment.

Extension Activity: An extension activity is offered for facilitators who wish to continue the 

topic. This activity may involve the use of technology, field trips, research, and more.
Skills to Pay the Bills

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Through the Lens of Universal Design for Learning

The activities in this publication are career development “warm-ups” for youth. Certainly, they may 

be used as the basis for planning lessons focusing on more extensive career and workforce development 

pursuits. The directions and extension activities have been specifically designed and created through 

a lens of universal design for learning. According to CAST (previously known as the Center for Applied 

Special Technology), universal design for learning is: a framework for designing educational environments that enable all learners to gain knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm for learning. This is accomplished by simultaneously reducing barriers to the curriculum while providing rich supports for learning.

As most youth development professionals recognize, young people come to pre-employment and 

employment training programs with a very wide variety of skills, talents, interests, and needs. For 

many youth, the typical classroom curriculum – which includes goals, instructional methods, classroom 

materials, and assessments – is cluttered with barriers and roadblocks, providing little support or 

opportunities to succeed for a wide range of learners. Rather than make extraordinary adjustments 

for particular students, universal design for learning lessens this conundrum.

As you work through these activities, consider incorporating some of the following strategies, which 

support universal design for learning: 

• Seek opportunities for students to demonstrate their learning through multiple modalities (e.g., 

written, oral, graphic representations, and multi-media representations).

• Encourage the use of technology to enhance learning (access to multi-media materials) and 

performance (e.g., spell check and word prediction software).

• Include opportunities for students to complete “do-overs” based on your feedback.

• Provide instructions describing the components or steps for completion for activities. You might 

consider having printed copies of directions, audio-taped instructions, and pictures. If you have 

access to a computer or laptop, instructions can be both seen and heard on the computer. Most 

computers today come equipped with accessibility software and are often pre-packaged with a 

magnifier, on-screen keyboard, narrator functions, and high contrast options. 

• Encourage students to play an active role and present their own thoughts and opinions throughout 

the activities. 

• Provide feedback to individual students in multiple forms (for example, face-to-face, email, online 

chat, telephone, etc.).

• Include opportunities for students to collaborate.

• Provide opportunities for students to contact you to ask questions. 

• Promote a strengths-based learning process. 

Regardless of any barrier to employment (including, but not limited to disability) the activities in this 

publication, coupled with the strategies and spirit of universal design for learning (and a sprinkle of 

creativity), are intended to help all youth prepare for career and personal success through the 

development of soft skills. 
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

11

Tips for Improving Access to this Curriculum for All Youth

Today’s in- and out-of-school youth career development programs are a true microcosm of our local 

communities. Within one learning environment multiple categories of youth are often represented. 

This includes, but is not limited to, youth in the foster care system, at risk of dropping out of school,

involved in the juvenile justice system, and/or for whom English may not be their primary language. 

The one population of youth that has the potential to overlap with all of the above-mentioned 

populations is youth with disabilities. The term disability applies to a broad array of differences, 

covering everything from learning disabilities to significant mobility impairment. Disabilities can be 

both apparent and non-apparent. As a youth service professional, you likely already encounter and 

serve many youth with disabilities. For instance:

• 36% of high school dropouts have learning disabilities and 59% have emotional or behavioral 

disorders

• 75% of youth in the juvenile justice system have some type of disability

• 20 to 60% of young children entering foster care have a developmental disability or delay

• 30 to 40% of the 500,000 foster care youth receive special education services

In addition to these youth with disabilities, there may be other youth you work with for whom their 

disability has not been identified or has not been disclosed. 

Successful youth service professionals recognize that disability is an aspect of diversity, and are 

prepared to support students from different backgrounds, cultures, and educational environments. 

Furthermore, they understand that all youth learn in different ways.

If possible, prior to beginning the activities in this curriculum, take time to get to know your students. 

Talk with all students openly about strengths and weaknesses. Ask them to think about how they learn 

best and what they might need from you (or a supervisor) to facilitate their success. When you 

prepare to use these lessons remember – one size does not fit all. 

To meet the youth’s needs, try to step out of your preferred method of teaching (or your personal 

comfort zone) and use a variety of instructional approaches such as: discussions, PowerPoint 

presentations, inquiry-based instruction, hands-on experiments, project/problem-based learning, or 

computer-aided instruction. This curriculum is designed to provide information to learners and 

instructors in a variety of ways. Instructors are encouraged to adapt activities to meet the needs of 

each class.

Providing variety of instruction not only will address various learning styles, but also can help learners 

become more flexible in their learning. While most learners do have a preferred style of learning, this 

does not mean they are strictly dependent on that style to learn. By exposing young people to a wide 

variety of learning styles and methods, you will enable them to become more flexible learners. 

Providing a variety of activities and access to learning will enable students of all ability levels to 

succeed. 
Skills to Pay the Bills

12

Consider the following global strategies:

• Appreciate the individuality of each youth. Having young people recognize that you appreciate 

their individuality is even more important.

• Demonstrate that you are committed to meeting the needs of all students and that you are open to 

conversation and discussion about how to help them learn and succeed.

• Recognize that we all have our own learning styles and cultural assumptions. These styles and 

assumptions influence how we teach and what we expect from our students. Often times our 

preferred method of teaching is not a student’s preferred (or required) method of learning.

• Prepare multiple examples to illustrate your points and help students move between abstract, 

theoretical, and concrete knowledge, specific experiences to expand everyone’s learning. Use pair 

and group work to help students learn from each other. 

Consider the following inclusive teaching strategies:

• Get young people “doing” in addition to listening. Whether it is a group exercise, using a role play 

activity, or an individual paper and pencil exercise such as journaling or drawing, creating lessons 

that engage different learning styles and engage young people in a variety of ways allows everyone 

to access the curriculum. 

• Repetition, repetition, repetition. It often takes repeated exposure to something before we 

remember it. Taking extra time to reinforce earlier topics in the context of the new ideas being 

discussed will help young people retain the important lessons and skills needed to be successfully 

employed. You can be creative in the ways you repeat concepts or emphasize a point: when the 

concept is considered again, offer it from a different point of view or when the concept is 

demonstrated again, use a different exercise. 

• Excitement is contagious. Demonstrating honesty, authenticity, and excitement for working with 

youth can often inspire the same qualities within the youth themselves as they engage with this 

curriculum. Your passion is infectious. As a youth service professional, it is important that you find 

ways to maintain your passion and excitement and recharge when necessary.

• Presume competence and instill confidence. Providing young people with confidence and an 

opportunity to succeed is one of the best gifts you can give. Have high expectations for all youth 

and help them to realize their potential as you support them to become independent decisionmakers for their future.

Whatever teaching or training strategies you put into place, there will be students who will require 

accommodations. Making accommodations benefits not only the intended recipient but also other class 

participants. Any adjustments or adaptations should be targeted specifically to the area of difficulty 

or functional limitation the individual is experiencing. 

The following list of strategies is offered as a guide to use when considering changes, adaptations, and 

accommodations to the way information is both presented and received within the learning 

environment to create the greatest potential for success for all youth.
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

13

Possible Reading Accommodations 

• Underline or highlight key concepts

• Provide a word bank or a list of important words for review and discussion 

• Use recorded reading passages or use computer screen reading software

• Allow for extra time

• Provide an outline or a preview of the material before it is to be read 

• Rather than require individuals read aloud, ask for volunteers

• Read aloud and use discussion and reflection strategies to ensure comprehension

Possible Writing Accommodations 

• Allow for dictation (and have someone else write) 

• Supply the individual with pre-written assignment sheets, rather than requiring copying

• Allow extra time for journal writing

• Provide (spelling) word banks for writing assignments

• Use computers with voice recognition software to allow for dictation

• Provide opportunities for proofreading before completion of a writing project

Possible Audio/Visual Accommodations

• Record information presented and allow it to be listened to for review

• Provide outline of lessons

• Provide pre-written notes or designate a note-taker

• Summarize lessons on a regular basis

• Keep instructions brief

• Present lessons in multi-sensory ways

Possible Math Related Accommodations

• Allow the use of calculators

• Provide graph paper for calculations 

• Allow additional time and/or group projects involving math

• Read and discuss math questions aloud

Possible Organizational Skills Accommodation 

• Use a recording device to allow the individual to listen to the information for review

• Color code papers, folders, or notebooks to help with organization

• Use post-it arrows to mark important pages or information in books

• Present material in multi-sensory ways, allowing for hands-on instruction

• For lengthier projects, encourage “check-ins” at different (and agreed upon) points 

Activities

Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

17

Communication

Communication skills are ranked FIRST 

among a job candidate’s “must have” 

skills and qualities, according to a 

2010 survey conducted by the National 

Association of Colleges and Employers. 

Communication skills are important to everyone - they are how we give and receive information and

convey our ideas and opinions with those around us.

Communication comes in many forms: 

• verbal (sounds, language, and tone of voice)

• aural (listening and hearing)

• non-verbal (facial expressions, body language, and posture)

• written (journals, emails, blogs, and text messages) 

• visual (signs, symbols, and pictures)

It is important to develop a variety of skills for both communicating TO others and learning how to 

interpret the information received FROM others. Knowing our audience and understanding how they 

need to receive information is equally important as knowing ourselves. 

To an employer, good communication skills are essential. In fact, employers consistently rank good 

communication skills at the top of the list for potential employees.

During an interview, for example, employers are impressed by a job candidate who answers questions 

with more than one-word answers (such as yeah...nah...dunno), demonstrates that he or she is listening, 

and shares information and ideas (by asking questions for clarification and/or follow-up). The 

interview can be an indication to employers of how the candidate or employee will interact with 

supervisors, co-workers, and customers or resolve conflicts when they arise. Remember, non-verbal 

communication is also critical in an interview. Employers expect good eye contact, good posture, and 

“active” listening. 

One of the challenges in the workplace is learning the specific communication styles of others and how 

and when to share your ideas or concerns. Though some supervisors may specifically ask for your 

opinion, others may assume if there is something important they need to know, you will bring it to 

their attention – or if there is something you are unsure about, you will ask. Knowing how to listen 

carefully and when to ask for help is important. If an employee and a supervisor learn to communicate 

well (in whatever method that works), there is a greater likelihood of job retention and promotion.

The activities in this section will not only help participants practice and recognize how they provide 

information to others, but also help them consider how others may prefer to receive information. It is 

important to reinforce with participants that communication skills involve give and take – and they 

can, indeed, be learned and strengthened over time. 
Skills to Pay the Bills

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Note to facilitators: Communication skills are necessary for the development of self-advocacy and 

self-determination, important skills for lifelong success. To that end, the activities in this section 

offer many opportunities for youth to practice communicating their strengths and assets while 

learning how to minimize any perceived barriers to employment. Please take the opportunity to add 

to or tweak any of the activities to better focus on the needs of your particular group. 

For example, if working with youth with disabilities, create opportunities to practice communicating 

how, when, and to whom to disclose a disability on the job or in post-secondary education and/or 

different ways to communicate a request for a reasonable accommodation. If you support youth 

involved in the juvenile justice system, enhance this section’s extension activities to include 

practicing how to communicate the proactive changes they are making in their lives, what they have 

learned from previous experiences, and how any mistakes of the past have helped them to become 

more focused and dedicated young adults.
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

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1. Whats’ Your Point?

JUST THE FACTS: This activity helps participants understand the importance of being specific when offering 

and receiving communication. Often times our meaning gets lost, twisted, or misunderstood because we 

haven’t been specific enough in our communication or we haven’t asked clarifying questions. These role plays 

are designed to demonstrate the value of being specific in communication...TO others and in what is received 

FROM others.

Time

20 minutes

Materials

• A few copies of Activity 1 (at least one copy per volunteer actor/actress).

• Costumes and other props, if possible.

Directions

Ask for volunteers to act out a short role play. Each skit requires two people: one 

employee and one supervisor. 

In the first role play, Jade has a job mowing lawns and receives some not-so-positive 

feedback from Mr. Z., a client. 

In the second role play, Will works at a dentist’s office and has gotten into some trouble 

with his boss, Ms. T.

Suggestion: Encourage participants to ad-lib, or improvise, if they feel comfortable. Giving youth 

permission to ad-lib often makes activities more “real” and memorable. In addition, youth may wish 

to retry one or more of the skits and create their own characters. 

After each skit is read, ask the following questions:

• Role Play #1: How did Jade handle Mr. Z.’s comments? What did she do right? Was 

there anything she could have done differently? What about Mr. Z.? What could he 

have done differently? 

• Role Play #2: How do you think Ms. T. handled the situation with Will’s lateness? How 

did Will handle Ms. T.’s disapproval? What might he have done differently? What might 

Ms. T. have done differently?
Skills to Pay the Bills

20

Conclusion

In either of these role-play situations, the employee could have “copped an attitude” or gotten 

defensive with the adult. Reread one or both of the activities and act out the situation 

differently. What would it have looked and sounded like if Jade had not demonstrated such a 

mature attitude? What would it have looked and sounded like if Will hadn’t offered a suggestion 

for his situation? 

Because each employee remained calm and asked additional questions to get clarity about each 

situation, he/she was able to communicate with the other person – and clearly identify the 

problem. 

Is this easy or difficult for you to do in most situations? If it’s easy, what are some strategies you 

use that help you to “keep your cool”? If it’s difficult, what might you try to do differently?

Journaling Activity

Think about a time when a parent, teacher, or friend criticized you. What happened? How did 

this make you feel? How did you handle it? Are you proud of the way you handled it? What 

might you do differently if something like this happens in the future? Did this experience 

change the way you offer feedback to others?

Extension Activity

Divide the group into smaller groups (no more than four per group). Have participants share (if 

they are comfortable) the situation they used for their journal entry. Use the situations to 

create and act out new role-play situations for the other groups. Three discussion questions 

should be written as well – and discussed as a group. Create three questions to be used with 

the larger group after the role-play is acted out.
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

21

Activity 1. What’s Your Point?

ROLE PLAY #1

Scenario: Jade has her first job mowing lawns. She works for her best friend’s brother who owns a 

landscaping company. She’s had the job for about three weeks and really feels like she’s getting into 

the groove. In fact, it’s the perfect job for her: she loves being outside and appreciates the fact that 

she can work on her own and even listen to her MP3 player! Jade arrives early at Mr. Z.’s house (her 

first customer of the day) and gets ready to begin mowing. 

Mr. Z.: 

 

 

 

 

 

You’re finally here! 

Jade: Hi, Mr. Z. Yes, I’m here to mow your lawn.

Mr. Z.: Well, you didn’t do a very good job last week.

Jade:

Mr. Z.: It was just a mess!

Jade:

Mr. Z.: Well, it looked just awful.

Jade: 

Mr. Z.: Well, the cut grass was left on the lawn, and the edges weren’t straight. 

Jade: 

Mr. Z.: Yes, that is exactly what I expect! 

Jade: 

Mr. Z.: Thank you very much. 
Skills to Pay the Bills

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Activity 1. What’s Your Point?

ROLE PLAY #2

Scenario: Will works in a large dental office and winds up rushing to get to work every day after 

school. His job tasks include filing, making photocopies, stuffing envelopes, and answering the 

telephone. Ms. T, the office manager, has asked to speak with Will about his time sheet. 

Ms. T.: 

 

 

Hello, Will. I would like to talk with you.

Will: Yes, Ms. T.? 

Ms. T.: Will, I’ve been watching your time this week, and I’m quite concerned.

Will: Ms. T., I see that you’re not happy, but will you please be more specific? 

Ms. T.: You’re not getting here on time. 

Will: I know I’ve been arriving to work late, and I am sorry.

Ms. T.:

Will: 

Ms. T.:

Will: 

Ms. T.: That would be very helpful. Thank you, Will. 
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

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2. Flipping the Switch

JUST THE FACTS: The purpose of this activity is to encourage youth to discuss the different types of 

communication they might use in different situations and environments. It introduces the idea that 

language/communication varies by context – and that it’s important to understand what might be 

acceptable and expected in one setting may not be appropriate in another.

Time

30 Minutes

Materials

• Activity 2

• Optional: Flip chart/markers

Directions

Ask participants to describe or demonstrate how they communicate with their 

friends. Then ask how they communicate with family members. Finally, ask 

how they are likely to communicate with an employer at a job interview. 

Discuss the differences and similarities in the participants’ responses. Ask the 

group:

• Why is each situation different?

• What are the expectations of each person?

• What would happen if you greeted your friends in the way you greeted an 

interviewer?

• What would happen if you greeted an interviewer the same way you greet 

your friends?

Knowing how to communicate with people in the right context for a given 

situation is an important skill, as there are often unspoken rules and standards 

that are just expected. For example, it’s common practice in the professional 

world to shake hands with people when meeting, rather than offering a highfive or a hug. We might use slang with our friends when talking about what 

happened at school or at a party, but we would usually use different words and 

mannerisms when telling our parents the same information. 

Use Activity 2 to compare and contrast the differences in how we might share 

the same type of information to different groups.
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Conclusion

Discuss the following ideas with participants, encouraging an honest dialogue: 

1. When the group changes, does the message change? Why or why not?

2. What are some examples of communication (both verbal and non-verbal) that you 

should always try to practice when communicating with an employer? How would 

your friends react to you if you communicated with them in the same way you 

would to an employer? 

Journaling Activity

We all communicate differently with different people in our lives. Does the way you 

communicate (or say things) affect how others perceive you? Explain.

Extension Activity

We build great relationships by learning to become great communicators. This is not 

always an easy task as we sometimes may experience barriers to communication – 

especially in the workplace. Take some time to explore with the group the following 

eight barriers. Think about what they are and ways in which these barriers can be 

lessened or eliminated for successful communication. The facilitator may wish to 

emphasize the importance of non-verbal communication skills, as young people often 

overlook these skills.

• Physical 

• Perceptual 

• Emotional 

• Cultural 

• Language

• Gender

• Interpersonal 

• Generational
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

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Activity 2. Flipping the Switch

Consider the following situations. Create a list, discuss, draw a picture, or encourage participants to 

act out the different ways one might communicate with each of following groups: 

• FRIENDS

• FAMILY

• PROFESSIONAL (INTERVIEWER, EMPLOYER, TEACHER, ETC.)

Be sure to explore BOTH verbal language (what we say and how we say it, i.e., tone of voice) and 

non-verbal language (facial expressions, behavior, body language, etc.)

SITUATION 1: Saying hello or goodbye 

Friends: 

Family: 

Professional: 

SITUATION 2: Asking for help

Friends: 

Family: 

Professional: 

SITUATION 3: Emailing or texting

Friends: 

Family: 

Professional: 

SITUATION 4: Showing excitement

Friends: 

Family: 

Professional: 

SITUATION 5: (Create your own) 

Friends: 

Family: 

Professional: 
Skills to Pay the Bills

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3. Oh, Puh-leeeeeeze!

JUST THE FACTS: The purpose of this activity is to help youth gain a better understanding of how 

non-verbal communication (both intended and unintended) can be interpreted by others...and the 

impact and effect of this form of communication. 

Time

20 minutes 

Materials

• Activity 3 (words and/or pictures cut out) 

Directions

Ask participants if they have ever gotten caught rolling their eyes at a teacher, parent, 

co-worker, or supervisor? Ask for a show of hands. Whether you rolled your eyes 

intentionally or didn’t even realize you did it, how do you think your action was 

interpreted? Answers will vary but might include: I’m bored, you are really annoying, 

yeah right, I’m sooooo not interested in what you are saying or doing. 

There are all types of communication. Believe it or not, the type that uses no words is 

the kind that is the most important. When it comes to communication, what people SEE 

is often more memorable than what they read or hear. This is often referred to as body 

language. Body language includes facial expressions, eye behavior, gestures, posture, 

and more. Body language can express your emotions, feelings, and attitudes. It can even 

contradict what you say verbally! People in different cultures may understand some 

global non-verbal expressions, while other expressions may be culture specific.

If the participants are from many different cultures, ask if they can give an example of 

non-verbal communication cues specific to their culture. 

Cut out the words in Activity 3, fold each and place in a hat, bowl, or bag. Ask each 

person in the group to take one piece of paper. Using body language and facial 

expressions only, ask each person to demonstrate this emotion, while others try to guess 

it. As an alternative, you can download "emoticons" and have participants match or 

identify what each picture describes. Continue until all words or pictures have been 

used/guessed. 
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

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Conclusion

Read the following statement to the group: ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS. 

Then ask:

• How many have heard this expression? When/where?

• What does it mean? 

• How is this possible when actions do not “speak”? 

Journaling Activity

Many people dream of being successful, but their actions can sometimes hold them back. 

What are some ways you can be sure that your actions help you to achieve your goals in life?

Extension Activity

Consider the following seven types of non-verbal signals and cues we often use to 

communicate our interest in and to others. Create a list of Do’s and Don’ts for avoiding 

common body language mistakes on the job.

1. Facial expressions: The human face is extremely expressive, able to convey 

countless emotions without saying a word. And unlike some forms of non-verbal 

communication, facial expressions are universal. The facial expressions for 

happiness, sadness, anger, surprise, fear, and disgust are the same across cultures.

2. Body movements and posture: Consider how your perceptions of people are 

affected by the way they sit, walk, stand up, or hold their head. The way you move 

and carry yourself communicates a lot of information to the world. This type of 

non-verbal communication includes your posture, bearing, stance, and subtle 

movements. 

3. Gestures: We wave, point, plead, and often use our hands when we are arguing or 

speaking in an animated way. However, the meaning of gestures can be very 

different across cultures and regions, so it’s important to be careful to avoid 

misinterpretation. 

4. Eye contact: Since the visual sense is dominant for most people, eye contact is an 

especially important type of non-verbal communication. The way you look at 

someone can communicate many things, including interest, affection, hostility, or 

attraction. Eye contact is also important in maintaining the flow of conversation and 

for assessing another person’s response.

5. Touch: We communicate a great deal through touch. Think about the messages 

given by the following: a firm handshake, a timid tap on the shoulder, a warm bear 

hug, a reassuring pat on the back, a patronizing pat on the head, or a controlling 

grip on your arm.
Skills to Pay the Bills

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6. Space: Have you ever felt uncomfortable during a conversation because the 

other person was standing too close and invading your space? We all have a need 

for physical space, although that need differs depending on the culture, 

situation, and closeness of the relationship. You can use physical space to 

communicate many different non-verbal messages, including signals of intimacy, 

aggression, dominance, or affection.

7. Voice: We communicate with our voices, even when we are not using words. 

Non-verbal speech sounds such as tone, pitch, volume, inflection, rhythm, and 

rate are important communication elements. When we speak, other people 

“read” our voices in addition to listening to our words. These non-verbal speech 

sounds provide subtle but powerful clues into our true feelings and what we 

really mean. Think about how tone of voice, for example, can indicate sarcasm, 

anger, affection, or confidence.
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

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Activity 3. Oh Puh-leeeeze! (Words)

Directions: There are many creative ways to complete this activity. A few suggestions include:

• Write each of the following words on an index card (or print and cut out words). Fold each card 

and place into a bowl, hat, or bag. Students can pick a word and attempt to act it out for the 

group. For students who read Braille, use a Braille printer to be sure the word can be read and 

understood by all.

• Write words on sticky notes or sentence strips and place around the room. Act out the emotion and 

see if participants can guess and move to the right one. 

• Say the word out loud and have participants draw what this emotion looks like to them. Share with 

the group.

• Download "emoticons" (or find pictures) that represent each emotion. Participants can match picture 

to word.

AFRAID ANGRY ANXIOUS

BORED CONFUSED CONTENT

CURIOUS EXCITED FRUSTRATED

HAPPY INTERESTED JEALOUS 

LONELY OFFENDED OVERWHELMED

PROUD SAD SCARED

SHOCKED SHY STRESSED

SURPRISED THANKFUL WORRIED
Skills to Pay the Bills

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4. Listen Hear!!

JUST THE FACTS: This quick activity is designed to get participants to start thinking about the importance of two-way communication. 

Time

15 - 20 minutes 

Materials

• One sheet of paper (8-1/2 x 11) for each participant

• One sheet of paper for the facilitator 

Directions

After giving each participant one sheet of paper, offer the following directions, pausing 

after each instruction to give the group time to comply (complete the activity yourself 

using your own sheet of paper). 

1. Pick up your sheet of paper and hold it in front of you. Close your eyes and 

listen carefully to my directions. The rules are: (1) no peeking and (2) no 

questions.

2. The first thing I want you to do is to fold your sheet of paper in half. (Pause) 

3. Now, tear off the upper right hand corner. (Pause)

4. Fold the paper in half again and tear off the upper left hand corner of the sheet. 

(Pause)

5. Fold it in half again. (Pause)

6. Now tear off the lower right-hand corner of the sheet. (Pause)

After all tearing is complete, say:

Now, open your eyes and unfold your paper. If I did a good job of communicating and 

you did a good job of listening, all of our sheets should look exactly the same!

Hold your sheet up for everyone to see. Ask participants to compare their sheets. Ask 

why no one’s paper matched yours exactly? You will probably get responses such as, 

“You didn’t let us ask any questions!” or “The way you gave us directions wasn’t clear!” 

Conclusion

Part of the communication process (and being a good communicator) is recognizing that 

people may need to receive information in different ways in order to be successful. If 

the goal of this activity was really to have everyone’s snowflakes look exactly the same, 

what changes could have been made to the directions? 
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

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Discuss the need for effective two-way communication at home, at work, and in the 

community with friends. Ask the group to work together or in smaller groups to create 

a definition of “Good Communication” by thinking about what good communication 

looks like. Be sure the list includes the responsibilities of being a good communicator 

and a good listener. 

Journaling Activity

Think of a time when you could have been a better communicator or a better listener. 

Describe the situation. What happened? What is more important – communicating in 

a way that is easy for you or communicating in a way so that others can understand 

you? Is there a difference? Explain. 

Extension Activity

Talk about the different TV shows participants watch. Discuss the differences in the 

way people communicate (or don’t communicate) with each other – and how 

miscommunication has caused problems and conflict for the show’s characters. Select 

a conflict from a recent TV episode and have participants describe, discuss, or act out 

how the problem was solved/portrayed in that scene. 

Consider: What was the conflict? What strategies did the characters use to solve the 

problem? Were they effective strategies for solving the problem solving peacefully? If 

not, what strategies might the characters have used instead? Discuss the effect young

people think the media has on how people handle their problems? 

Finally, create a TV public service announcement that promotes solving conflicts in 

peaceful ways.

*You may also wish to check with your local Department of Juvenile Services or other social 

services agency and find out about conflict mediation specialists in your area. Invite them in to 

talk with the group about conflict – and ways to handle unhealthy situations before they get out 

of control. 
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5. Quit Talkin’! I Know What To Do!

JUST THE FACTS: The purpose of this activity is to discuss the importance of understanding 

directions before you start a task. Participants will examine the pros and cons of different types of 

direction – and decide which type of direction they are most comfortable with and how to receive 

that type of direction as often as possible. 

Time

15 minutes 

Materials

• One copy of Activity 5 for each participant

• Stop watch or watch with second hand 

Directions

This activity can either be completed independently or in groups of two. 

Say: For this activity, you will have three minutes to complete a short quiz. I’m 

going to pass out these papers and ask you to not look at them until I say so. 

When I say “go,” you will have three minutes exactly to do what is asked of you 

on this paper. Ready, Get Set, Go! 

Conclusion

Discuss with the group how they felt about this activity? Was it fun, frustrating, 

easy, or difficult? What aspects of the activity made it so? What is the moral or 

message of this lesson? How does this message relate to work? 

Journaling Activity

Give an example of a time when you really thought you knew what you were 

supposed to do but did not. What happened? 

Extension Activity

Consider all of the different ways directions can be offered and how they can be 

collected or received. Think about people who might have difficulty reading the 

English language or understanding the spoken word. What are some different ways 

the instructions could have been given to ensure EVERYONE understood? 
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

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Next, have students think about how they learn best (if possible, complete a basic learning 

styles assessment). Are they primarily visual learners, auditory learners, or hands-on/

kinesthetic learners? Consider ways in which you might let someone know what type of 

learner you are before getting information. Think about school or a job. How might you 

be proactive in helping a teacher or a supervisor understand how you need to be taught? 

Share strategies with the group. 
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Activity 5. Three-Minute Quiz

1. Read everything before you do anything.

2. Write your name in the upper top left-hand corner of this page.

3. Circle the word “name” in sentence two.

4. Draw five small squares in the upper right-hand corner.

5. Put an X in each square you have just drawn.

6. Put a circle around each square.

7. Sign your name under the title of this page.

8. After the title, write, “yes, yes, yes.”

9. Underline sentences number seven and eight.

10. Put an X in the lower left-hand corner of this page.

11. Draw a triangle around the X you have just made.

12. Stand up and (loudly) call out your first name. 

13. On the back of this page multiply 5 times 4.

14. Draw a circle around the word “top” in sentence four.

15. On the reverse side of this paper add the numbers 25 and 100.

16. Count out in your normal speaking voice from one to 10.

17. If you are the first person to get this far, say, “ME, ME, ME!” 

18. Using your pencil, punch three small holes at the bottom of this paper. 

19. If you think you have carefully followed these directions, stand up, turn around and whisper, 

“I have carefully followed the directions.”

20. Now that you have finished reading the directions carefully, do only sentences one and two. Sit 

quietly until everyone else if finished. 
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

35

Enthusiasm and Attitude

Having a positive attitude in the workplace

can help with potential promotions.

Employers promote employees who not

only produce, but also motivate others

in the workplace.

When employers look at prospective candidates, beyond skills, experience, and training, they look for 

those who demonstrate enthusiasm – those they believe will complete assigned tasks in an upbeat and 

cooperative manner. All other things being equal, a candidate who can demonstrate a positive attitude 

and eagerness to tackle the job will have an advantage over one who displays an attitude viewed by the 

employer as negative or disinterested. In fact, many employers would rather provide job skills training 

to an enthusiastic but inexperienced worker than hire someone with perfect qualifications but a lessthan-positive attitude. Managers sometimes worry that this type of person will not get along with 

supervisors and co-workers, treat customers disrespectfully, and not put much effort into his or her 

work. On the other hand, employees who are viewed as enthusiastic are known to provide good 

customer service, resolve interpersonal conflict effectively, and work productively with others.

There are many ways in which an individual might demonstrate enthusiasm in the workplace. For 

example, in a job interview, he or she might smile, sit up straight, make eye contact, and discuss 

training and work experiences in an upbeat manner. Once hired into a position, an enthusiastic 

employee will typically show up on time, show interest in his or her job, and demonstrate a willingness 

to listen, learn, and try new things. In customer service settings, an enthusiastic employee will 

approach customers proactively and offer assistance or seek out tasks and projects when there is down 

time. This positive attitude helps employees go above and beyond to get along with co-workers and 

managers – even difficult ones – and respond to constructive criticism with maturity and willingness to 

improve. Overall, an employee with enthusiasm comes across as someone who wants to be at work and 

who is willing to do what it takes to get the job done.

The activities in this section seek to teach participants about the importance of enthusiasm and a 

positive attitude in the workplace. Participants will hear strategies for turning negative thinking into 

positive thinking and displaying and discussing enthusiasm during an interview and on the job. 

Note to facilitators: A positive attitude is an “I can” attitude. Young people with real or perceived 

barriers to employment (such as those who struggle academically possibly due to a learning or other 

disability, have been in and out of foster homes, have dropped out of school, or are raising a baby) may 

not have experienced enough success to feel or demonstrate this attitude. The activities in this 

section offer an opportunity for you to help all youth learn how to develop a positive attitude and, 

almost as important, how to learn to showcase that to others, including employers. Regardless of the 

challenges young people have conquered, developing and displaying a positive attitude will often help 

them to surpass their peers in many aspects of life.

What is the difference between “You’re hired!” and “Thank 

you for your interest, but...”? In a word: enthusiasm. 

Enthusiasm can mean the difference in not just getting a 

job, but succeeding in a job and even advancing in your 

career. A positive and enthusiastic attitude is a critical 

component of workplace success. 
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6. Never Underestimate the Power of PMA

JUST THE FACTS: PMA, or Positive Mental Attitude, is one’s ability to maintain the belief that he or she 

can transform or change a tough situation into something better. This activity will help participants take 

difficult situations and find ways to EMPOWER themselves to turn negative thinking into positive thinking. 

Time

20 minutes 

Materials

Directions

Pose the following questions to participants. (This can be accomplished by group discussion

or by smaller groups discussing together and then presenting to the larger group.)

• What is a positive attitude? If I have a positive attitude, what actions might I display?

What does a positive attitude “look” like to others?

• What is a negative attitude? If I have a negative attitude, what actions might I display?

What does a negative attitude “look” like to others?

Then say: Developing a positive attitude starts from learning to believe in one’s self. In 

order to believe in ourselves, we must first understand our personal strengths. In this 

activity, you will be considering and sharing your personal strengths. 

Break participants into groups of four. Write the below statements on a piece of chart paper

for all to see, or have a “cheat sheet” at each table for reference. You might choose to create

a chart and draw a picture of each roll of the dice (for those who learn best from pictures) on 

one side and write the corresponding statement on the other. 

Each participant will take turns rolling the dice two or three times and complete the 

following statement upon each roll: 

Roll a 1: I am thankful for...

Roll a 2: Other people compliment me on my ability to...

Roll a 3: Something I would like other people to know about me is...

Roll a 4: I feel really good about myself when....

Roll a 5: I am proud of my ability to...

Roll a 6: Something nice I recently did for someone else was...

• One rolling die for each small group. Alternatively, you can use a “cut out” cube and 

create it to look like a single dice, using either numbers one through six or the typical 

dots found on rolling dice. An easy cube shaped cut-out can be found at 

http://www.leslietryon.com/3dcolorcutout/cube.html

• Optional: Chart paper/markers
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

37

NOTE: If the group knows each other well, feel free to substitute questions that ask about 

the positive qualities of their peers. 

Conclusion

Ask participants why the statement for Roll #6 was included in this activity? Answers should 

be directed toward the fact that helping or “doing” for others often helps people feel good 

about themselves. And, when we feel good about ourselves, we often demonstrate a 

positive attitude that can be seen by others. 

Discuss with participants how internal feelings have the ability to impact those around us. 

How might a positive attitude help us on a job? 

Journaling Activity

Do you think our attitude (whether positive or negative) is something we are born with or 

that we have power to control within ourselves? Think about a time when your attitude 

(either positive or negative) impacted you and those around you. When is it most 

challenging for you to keep a positive mental attitude? What do you do to help keep 

yourself positive during difficult times? 

Extension Activity

Have participants keep a log for one week. Ask them to write down 50 (or 40 or 30) great 

things that happen each day. Encourage them to include even the small things like: 

someone held the door open for me....I found a quarter on the sidewalk...when I went 

shopping, the clerk at the store was really friendly and helpful. The goal of this activity 

is to have participants focus on the positive...and then discuss if they felt any different 

during the week as a result – either in their interactions with others or in their own 

feelings about themselves. 
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7. Life is Full of Hard Knocks

JUST THE FACTS: Failing is a part of life. In fact, it accounts for many, many successes – for without 

failing, success is almost impossible. Learning how to bounce back from failure is not always easy, but 

it is necessary. Enthusiasm for goal attainment is a necessary characteristic for success. This activity 

helps participants understand that failure is not something to fear and in fact often a necessary step on 

the path to success. 

Time

20 Minutes

Materials

• Activity 7a or 7b

• Whiteboard or flip chart with markers or blackboard

Directions

Write the following statement large enough so all can see (and read aloud): THE ROAD TO 

SUCCESS IS PAVED WITH FAILURE.

Divide the larger group into smaller groups. Ask each group to discuss the statement and 

what they think it means. Alternatively, ask individual participants to draw a picture of 

what this statement means to them. Ask each group to share their feedback and 

encourage other participants to comment or expand on the responses. 

Decide whether you will use Activity 7a or 7b (Success or Failure), based on the make up 

of your group: 

• Option 1: Activity 7a was developed for discussion, though it could certainly be 

adapted to include a word bank or list of words from which to choose. 

• Option 2: Activity 7b provides materials that can be copied, cut out, and placed in 

separate envelopes to be used as an independent or small group matching exercise. 

• Option 3: Alternatively, you might choose to have 10 large pieces of paper placed 

around the room, each with one of the 10 descriptions written on it. Sentence strips 

or note cards could then have each of the 10 famous people written. Participants 

can take turns matching the famous person with their famous failure, and, thus, their 

eventual success.

NOTE: Participants may benefit from having pictures of each of the famous people on 

the individual cards (along with the names). You can use an Internet search engine to 

find pictures of each famous person.

• Optional: Paper and colored pencils for drawing

• Optional: Envelopes
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

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Conclusion

Discuss with participants different ways people might deal with failure. Pinpoint how 

people might deal with failure differently in different environments, such as at home, at 

school, or at work. Be certain to wrap up the activity in a positive way, focusing on the 

fact that without making mistakes, we would never succeed. Ask, “What do each of the 

people we discussed today have in common?” Answer: They refused to quit. 

Further discussion questions include: Would you have given up if you lost 8 elections? 

What if you wrote a book and 23 different publishers rejected it? What if just one 

publisher rejected it? What would you have done? What might the world be like today if 

Thomas Edison had given up?

Journaling Activity

Think of a time when you experienced a personal failure. What was the failure? How did 

this failure help you to become a better person, make better decisions, or succeed in a 

way you hadn’t imagined? Do you believe that failure is important? Why or why not?

Extension Activity

If you have Internet resources, check out some of the YouTube videos on “Famous 

Failures.” Simply type “famous failures” into the search bar to find results.

Have students research additional “famous failures” and work in teams to create a 

YouTube video showcasing one of their own failures that ultimately had a positive effect.

Another suggestion would be to use the information provided in this activity (famous 

people’s successes and failures) and have small groups work together to create a similar 

game or activity appropriate for younger children. This could then be shared with a local 

elementary school.
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Activity 7a. Success or Failure?

CAN YOU NAME....

1. ...a famous person who was defeated seven times while running for political office?

2. ...a cartoonist who was told by the editor of the Kansas City newspaper, “It’s easy to see from 

these sketches that you have no talent.” 

3. ...an author whose first children’s book was rejected by 23 different publishers?

4. ...a famous singer who was fired after his first performance at the Grand Ole Opry?

5. ...a famous actress who dropped out of high school and held a variety of odd jobs, including 

doing the hair and make-up for corpses, before finally succeeding in show business?

6. ...a famous author who lived on welfare for years in an apartment infested with mice?

7. ...a famous athlete who was cut from the varsity basketball team his sophomore year in high 

school? 

8. ...an inventor who was thrown out of school in the early grades because his teachers thought he 

couldn’t learn?

9. ...a famous Harvard University drop out?

10. ...an inventor of a fried chicken recipe that was rejected by more than 1000 restaurant owners?
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

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ANSWERS:

1. Abraham Lincoln was defeated in eight different elections. Yet he persisted and succeeded in 

becoming the 16th, and one of the most respected, presidents of the United States. 

2. Walt Disney was told he had no talent and fired from a newspaper job. He wound up doing 

volunteer work for a church in an old run down garage. One day he decided to sketch one of 

the many mice that were running through the garage. This mouse became the famous 

“Mickey Mouse.” 

3. Twenty-three different publishers rejected Dr. Seuss’s first book, while the 24th accepted and 

sold 6 million copies of it.

4. Elvis Presley was fired after his first performance at the Grand Ole Opry. The manager told 

him, “You ain’t going nowhere, son. You ought to go back to driving a truck.” He went on to 

become one of the most famous American singers of the 20th century.

5. Whoopi Goldberg dropped out of high school, was on welfare and worked as a bricklayer, 

bank teller, and licensed cosmetician. After graduating from Beauty College, she took a job 

at a mortuary fixing the hair of and applying make-up to the corpses.

6. J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter series, lived on welfare for years, in an apartment 

infested with mice, and was rejected by 12 publishers before going on to fame and fortune.

7. Michael Jordan was the athlete who was cut from the varsity basketball team in his 

sophomore year of high school. Angry and embarrassed, he began to get up early each 

morning to practice with the junior varsity coach. Eventually he not only made the varsity 

team, but also became one of the most popular athletes in the world. Michael Jordan is 

quoted as saying, “I have missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I have lost almost 300 

games. On 26 occasions I have been entrusted to take the game winning shot, and I missed. I 

have failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”

8. Thomas Edison was the inventor who was kicked out of school. Following this, he was 

homeschooled by his mother. It took him over 700 tries before he got the filament right for 

the light bulb. Edison is quoted as saying: “I have not failed seven hundred times. I have not 

failed once. I have succeeded in proving that those seven hundred ways will not work. When I 

have eliminated the ways that will not work, I will find the way that will work.” 

9. Mark Zuckerberg dropped out of Harvard University. He went onto become the youngest 

millionaire (at the age of 26) and is the CEO of Facebook. 

10. Harland David Sanders (better known as Colonel Sanders) had his fried chicken recipe 

rejected by more than 1,000 restaurant owners before it was accepted by one. Today, people 

still eat it at KFCs across the world. 
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Activity 7b. Success or Failure?

ABRAHAM LINCOLN

(16TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES)

DR. SEUSS 

(CHILDREN’S AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATOR)

WHOOPI GOLDBERG

(FAMOUS ACTRESS)

MICHAEL JORDAN 

(FAMOUS ATHLETE)

MARK ZUCKERBERG 

(CEO OF FACEBOOK)

WALT DISNEY

(THE CREATOR OF MICKEY MOUSE)

ELVIS PRESLEY

(FAMOUS SINGER)

J.K. ROWLING

(WROTE THE HARRY POTTER SERIES)

THOMAS EDISON

(INVENTOR OF THE LIGHT BULB)

COLONEL SANDERS 

(FOUNDER OF KFC)
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LOST 8 ELECTIONS

HAD A NERVOUS BREAKDOWN

FIRST BOOK WAS REJECTED BY MORE THAN 

20 DIFFERENT PUBLISHERS

DROPPED OUT OF HIGH SCHOOL AND 

PERFORMED ODD JOBS, SUCH AS FIXING THE 

HAIR AND MAKE UP OF CORPSES.

WAS KICKED OFF OF HIS VARSITY 

BASKETBALL TEAM

DROPPED OUT OF HARVARD UNIVERSITY

WAS TOLD HE HAD NO TALENT 

FOR DRAWING

WAS TOLD TO GO BACK TO DRIVING A TRUCK 

AND QUIT SINGING

LIVED ON WELFARE AND IN A HOUSE 

INFESTED WITH MICE

REJECTED BY 12 DIFFERENT PUBLISHERS

THROWN OUT OF SCHOOL BECAUSE HIS 

TEACHERS SAID HE COULDN’T LEARN

HAD A RECIPE THAT WAS REJECTED FROM 

MORE THAN 1,000 RESTAURANTS
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8. A Super Ball and a Raw Egg

JUST THE FACTS: One difference between people with a positive and enthusiastic attitude and people 

with a negative attitude is that the former look at failure as an opportunity to try again. This activity 

offers an opportunity to use everyday objects to demonstrate this valuable outlook. 

Time

20 minutes 

Materials

• One super ball (hard rubbery ball that bounces high)

• Three raw eggs (or one for each participant) If you would rather not use raw eggs, 

small, thin water balloons are just as effective

• Large sheet, drop cloth, or newspaper

• Masking tape

It is suggested that facilitators complete Activity 7 (Success or Failure) prior to completing 

this activity. 

Directions

Tape a large sheet, drop cloth, or piece of newspaper to the wall; put another on the floor 

directly underneath to catch the broken egg. Draw a set of concentric circles on the sheet, 

drop cloth, or piece of newspaper on the wall, making a target. (Another option is to simply 

put the target on the floor and have participants drop each object from above.)

Without explaining the point of the illustration, ask for six volunteers. The first three take 

the super ball and throw it at the target, trying to get the closest to the center. The second 

three throw the raw eggs.

Say something to the effect of: When this super ball was thrown against the wall, what 

happened? [It bounces back.] What happens the harder it is thrown? [The faster it 

bounces back.] 

What happened to the raw egg when it was thrown against the wall? [It splattered.] What 

happens the harder it is thrown? [The worse it splatters...or the bigger the mess.]

These objects define two very different types of people: raw egg people and super ball 

people. When raw egg people hit a “bump in the road,” they splatter. The harder they hit, 

the harder they splatter, usually giving up on their goal. When super ball people hit an 

obstacle, they bounce back. The more difficult the obstacle, the harder they bounce back.
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

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If Activity 7 was used previously: The people we just talked about when we talked 

about Successes or Failures were ALL super ball people. With every failure they 

experienced, they kept bouncing back. 

If Activity 7 was not used, simply ask: Why do you think people bounce back after 

failing at something. What are some of the things you learn when you fail? Who do 

you know (either a famous person or someone you know personally) that has bounced 

back from failure to become really successful?

Conclusion

In a small group, discuss what makes people bounce back from defeat? (Allow a few 

minutes for thought, reflection, and discussion.) 

Journaling Activity

Think about a time when you wanted to give up on something but didn’t. What was the 

situation? Why did you want to give up? Why didn’t you? How did you deal with it? 

Extension Activity

Have participants describe what success means to them. Methods of expression might 

include writing a poem, a dance, drawing a picture, creating a song or a rap, creating a 

collage from magazine pictures, configuring a word cloud, etc. Allow participants to 

express themselves in a way they feel most comfortable. 
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9. Believe It or Not: Your Attitude and Enthusiasm Just Might Get You the Job

JUST THE FACTS: According to many sources, the enthusiasm you display on a job interview can make 

the difference between getting the job and not getting the job. Some even say that attitude can 

account for up more than 40% of your rating! This activity will focus on the different attitudes that can 

be (and have been) displayed during a job interview. In a job interview, enthusiasm comes across as 

showing a genuine interest in the job.

Time

30 - 40 minutes

Materials

• Activity 9 

• You will need three actors/actresses. One will play the interviewer, one will play the 

positive job applicant, and one will play the not-so-positive job applicant

• If possible, the not-so-positive job applicant could use props such as a cell phone, 

chewing gum, boxer shorts showing, and anything else that might be perceived as 

unprofessional

Note: You may choose not to use the role-play scripts – and instead have participants 

answer the questions in their own way — understanding that one person interviews very 

well, while the other doesn’t (to the extreme). This is a good strategy for non-readers or 

those with limited reading proficiency. 

Directions

Ask participants: Did you know that often an employer will decide within the first 30 

seconds if an applicant is right for the job? 

What do you think can come across in 30 seconds? Why is the first 30 seconds so important? 

Elicit responses. Obviously, this means you need to be on top of your game going into the 

interview.

Ask for volunteers to read a role play script about job interviews. Allow volunteer actors/

actresses a few minutes to review the scripts. Explain to each “interviewee” that they 

should be “over the top” and that the “good” interviewee should be really, really good; 

and the “bad” interviewer should be really, really bad.
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Conclusion

Discuss with participants the fact that these examples are both ends of the extreme. What 

are some of the takeaways from either observing or participating in this role play? 

Depending on how the interviewees “acted,” there is a good chance that both interviewees 

demonstrated enthusiasm – and even if it wasn’t “spoken,” interviewee #2 certainly was 

excited about his/her tattoos and ability to eat rocky road ice cream. Talk about the 

difference between both types of enthusiasm. 

Participants may wish to act out another interview scenario (with or without the script), if 

time allows. 

Journaling Activity

You have a friend who is getting ready for a job interview. This friend is not feeling too 

positive lately, and you want to help her get ready for this interview. What are some things 

you might do to help your friend prepare?

Extension Activity

Divide the larger group into smaller groups of three or four. Instruct each group to write 

another role play demonstrating positive attitude and “focused” enthusiasm. This role play 

can focus, again, on an interview, or can be an example of a situation that might happen 

on-the-job. Each group should have the opportunity to act out their role play.
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Activity 9. Interview Role Play 

INTERVIEWER’S SCRIPT

“Good morning, my name is [Mr. or Ms.] _______________________ and I will be conducting your 

interview this morning.” Extend your hand to shake hands with the applicant. “Please have a seat.”

“We are interviewing for the position of a restaurant host/hostess. We are looking for someone with 

good customer service and communication skills, someone who is dependable and gets along with 

others. This person will be the first person to greet guests when they come into our restaurant, so it is 

very important to us that the host displays a positive and welcoming attitude.”

“Now, I have some questions to ask you.” 

“Did you bring a copy of your resume?”

“Tell me a little bit about yourself.”

“What are your strengths?”

“What are your weaknesses?”

“Why do you want to work here?”

“Tell me about a recent job or volunteer position you had.”

“Why did you leave that position?”

“Do you have any questions for me?”
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Activity 9. Interview Role Play 

INTERVIEWEE SCRIPT 1

Q: “Did you bring a copy of your resume?”

Yes, sir (or ma’am), I did. [You open up a folder you brought with you to the interview (where you 

have copies of your resume). You hand one copy to the interviewer.] 

Q: “Tell me a little bit about yourself.”

I have lived in [your city or state] all of my life, I love being around people, and I love learning new 

things. Right now, I’m learning a new language because I think it is important to be able to 

communicate with a variety of people. I also like doing physical work and enjoy gardening and 

landscaping. I’m quite proud of my yard. 

Q: “What are your strengths?”

I’m a really good listener. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a good talker too, but I think listening skills are 

even more important. I’m also a good organizer. It doesn’t make any difference if it is organizing my 

closet or a trip with my family; I love all the planning and organizing that goes into it.

Q: “What are your weaknesses?”

I like things to go according to my plans so when something comes up that may make my plans go off 

schedule it sometimes stresses me out. But what I have learned about myself is that coming up with 

a plan B helps a lot! So, if I plan ahead for potential problems, then I don’t stress out at all because 

I have a good idea of what to do next. 

Q: “Why do you want to work here?”

As I said earlier, I love being around people and in this job I’d get to meet every person that walks 

through the door. Your restaurant has a good reputation for quality food and service and that’s the 

type of restaurant I’d be proud to work in. I think my qualities will fit nicely here.
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Q: “Tell me about a recent job or volunteer position you had.”

I worked in a cafeteria serving food. Sometimes I worked in the kitchen but I really loved working as a 

server. I got to meet a lot of people. Some days were easier than others. I set a goal for myself to smile 

at everyone I served, especially those people who seemed upset or depressed. It may seem like a 

boring job to some people but not me.

Q: “Why did you leave that position?”

I left because I had started school and couldn’t do both school and work at the same time.

Q: “Do you have any questions for me?”

Your staff has a great reputation for customer service, so I thought perhaps I’d ask if you have a 

training program you put your staff through to achieve that?

Before you leave:

I also have a list of references for you. [Hand the interviewer a sheet of paper.] Thank you for the 

interview; it was a pleasure to meet you. [Offer a professional, firm handshake – and a smile.]
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Activity 9. Interview Role Play 

INTERVIEWEE SCRIPT 2

This version of the interview should be over-the-top “bad.” The candidate should be dressed 

inappropriately, wearing sunglasses, chewing gum, displaying poor posture, disorganized, late, etc.

In fact, the interviewee doesn’t pay attention when the interviewer begins – and doesn’t realize that 

the interviewer offered to shake hands because he/she was too busy putting a cell phone in his/her 

pocket.

Q: “Did you bring a copy of your resume?”

A resume? Oh, yeah...it’s in here somewhere. [Dig around in your pocket or bag until you find a crumpled 

resume. Smooth out the paper and hand it to the interviewer.]

Q: “Tell me a little bit about yourself.”

Well, I’ve been taking a little time off lately – traveling around the United States. I’m trying to get one 

tattoo from every state. I’ve already got a pretty good start, see? [Show the interviewer your bare arm.] 

Q: “What are your strengths?”

I can talk to anybody...and about any subject! There’s never a dull moment when I’m in a room.

Q: “What are your weaknesses?”

Hmmm, I can’t think of anything. Oh yeah, I have a weakness for Rocky Road ice cream. I bet I could eat 

an entire gallon in one sitting. I also like to sleep late. Really, I’m much more of a night owl than an 

early bird. Sure the early bird gets the worm, but who wants worms anyway?

Q: “Why do you want to work here?”

I figured I’d be able to get free meals if I worked for a restaurant. Plus, I’m living at home with my 

mom and she wants me to pay rent...why, I don’t know.
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Q: “Tell me about a recent job or volunteer position you had.”

Uh, the last job I had was at a sporting goods store. That was a while ago, though – and it didn’t last 

too long.

Q: “Why did you leave that position?”

Well, me and the manager didn’t always see eye to eye. Sometimes customers were pretty rude 

when we didn’t have the sports equipment they wanted and my manager expected me to be nice to 

these people when they clearly didn’t deserve it. Let’s just say I left by mutual agreement.

Q: “Do you have any questions for me?”

Do your employees get free meals?
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10. Translating Features to Benefits

JUST THE FACTS: Marketing executives translate features to benefits when they are preparing to sell 

products and services. For example, your cell phone plan offers call forwarding (a feature). This 

means you will never miss another important call (a benefit). In another example, the new car you 

want to buy has a built-in GPS system (feature). The salesperson probably tells you that with built-in 

GPS you will never get lost or need to print out Internet directions again (benefit). The purpose of this 

activity is to help participants list and explain the positive personality traits (or personal features) they 

possess and how to communicate those traits to an employer. Remember: Features tell...benefits sell. 

Time

30 minutes 

Materials

• Chart paper, white board (or anything on which to write so a large group can see),

and markers

Directions

Write the following statistics on a flip chart or white board: 

 40% - Attitude

 25% - Image and appearance

 25% - Communication skills (verbal and non-verbal)

 10% - Job skills 

• Attitude: Do you demonstrate confidence and enthusiasm, are you on time or early?

• Image and appearance: Do you wear too much perfume or cologne, are your clothes 

 wrinkled or inappropriate for the work environment? 

• Communication skills: Do you look the interviewer in the eye, is your handshake firm, 

 do you speak clearly? 

Ask participants (and discuss) why they think attitude is rated highest? How does an 

employer get a sense of your “attitude” during an interview?

Explain that part of a job interview is actually a sales job. You are “selling” yourself and 

your skills to an employer. This is not an easy task for many of us because we may not be 

sure about our skills, lack a bit of self-confidence, or are just plain nervous. This is one 

skill that will definitely get better the more it is practiced. 

According to a variety of sources, your attitude is the #1 factor in getting or losing a job. On 

the chart is how it is often broken down. Take a few minutes to discuss what each of these 

"looks like.” For example: 

• Three to five notecards per participant
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In order to begin thinking about how we might “sell” ourselves in a job interview, 

participants will learn how to turn their personal FEATURES into BENEFITS for the employer. 

This is where they will be able to tell an employer what they have to offer while also giving 

the employer a reason why this feature is good for his or her business. 

Take a few minutes to brainstorm some positive personality traits. Ask participants to 

“yell” them out while you write them where all can see. Examples of positive personality 

traits include, but are certainly not limited to: friendly, creative, honest, dependable, 

trustworthy, enthusiastic, upbeat, patient, polite, helpful, etc.

Now, ask participants to think about what these features might mean to an employer. For 

example: 

• Honesty (feature) means you can be counted on to do the right thing (benefit). 

• Friendliness (feature) means you will help customers feel welcomed (benefit)

Review a few of these examples until participants feel comfortable with the activity. 

Give each participant a set of notecards. On one side of the card participants should draw 

a picture of or write a FEATURE they possess. On the other side of the card, they should 

draw a picture of or write the BENEFIT (or why this feature would be important) to the 

employer. Depending on the group, this activity can be done individually or in groups of 

two or more. 

Once complete, ask for volunteers to read their personal traits and how they might benefit 

a future employer. Alternatively, you can ask participants to act out their FEATURES and 

see if the group can guess both the FEATURE and the BENEFIT to an employer. 

Conclusion

Discuss with participants the ease or difficulty they experienced with this activity. In 

addition, discuss some examples of different features that may be perceived as 

“challenging” and how they may be described positively as benefits. For example: 

• “Over the years, I’ve learned what it means to multi-task.” (someone who has ADD)

• “I am a great problem solver. You should see some of the places I’ve needed to get 

into!” (someone who uses a wheelchair)

Journaling Activity

Describe how it makes you feel talking about yourself in a positive way. Is it easy, difficult, 

awkward, etc.? Since this is important when it comes time getting a job, what might you 

do to improve your ability to do this? If this is already easy for you, how can you be sure 

you don’t come across as “full of yourself” or conceited?
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Extension Activity

Have participants use their individual Features to Benefits cards to create a “30-Second 

Commercial.” Explain that their goal is to hook an employer on hiring them, just as they 

might get hooked on buying something from TV after seeing a commercial for the product. 

A few suggestions for this activity include: record participants, allow for multiple takes 

and retakes, encourage feedback and suggestions from peers, etc. Encourage participants 

to view each of their successive videotapes to look for improvement.

You may also wish to invite one or more employers in to critique each commercial and 

provide feedback and suggestions. Only bring employers into the mix once participants 

have had the opportunity to practice and feel a bit more confident “selling” themselves. 
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Teamwork

Teamwork is an essential part of workplace success. Like a basketball team working together to set up 

the perfect shot, every team member has a specific role to play in accomplishing tasks on the job. 

Although it may seem as if one player scored the basket, that basket was made possible by many 

people’s planning, coordination, and cooperation to get that player the ball. Employers look for people 

who not only know how to work well with others, but who understand that not every player on the 

team can or will be the one who gets the ball. When everyone in the workplace works together to 

accomplish goals, everyone achieves more.

The ability to work as part of a team is 

one of the most important skills in 

today’s job market. Employers are 

looking for workers who can contribute 

their own ideas, but also want people 

who can work with others to create 

and develop projects and plans.

Teamwork involves building relationships and working with other people using a number of important 

skills and habits:

• Working cooperatively 

• Contributing to groups with ideas, suggestions, and effort

• Communication (both giving and receiving)

• Sense of responsibility

• Healthy respect for different opinions, customs, and 

individual preferences

• Ability to participate in group decision-making

When employees work together to accomplish a goal, everyone benefits. Employers might expect to 

“see” this in action in different ways. For example, team members in the workplace plan ahead and 

work cooperatively to assign tasks, assess progress, and deliver on time. They have professional 

discussions during which differing approaches and opinions might be shared and assessed in a respectful 

manner. Even when certain employees end up with tasks that were not their first choices, jobs get done 

with limited complaints because it is in the spirit of teamwork and with the overall goal in mind. A

leader or manager may often serve as the teamwork facilitator. In this case, team members participate 

respectfully in discussion, carry out assigned tasks, and defer to the leader in the best interest of the 

goal. Consensus is wonderful, but not always possible, and an assigned leader will often support and 

facilitate the decision-making necessary for quality teamwork to exist.

The activities in this section seek to teach participants about the importance of teamwork to workplace 

success and the specific role each individual on a team may play. Participants will learn about positive 

teamwork behavior and discover how their own conduct can impact others on a team. The section also 

discusses possible obstacles to teams working successfully and offers the opportunity to build 

constructive strategies for overcoming these challenges. 
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Note to facilitators: Learning the value of teamwork and becoming an effective member of a team is 

an important first step to developing leadership skills. For disconnected youth, especially those with 

underlying disabilities, the development of these skills is critical. Young people without a connection 

to work or school typically have had limited exposure to positive and proactive support systems, or a 

true sense of the essence of the proactive support of a community. Affording young people 

experiences through which they learn to rely on themselves and others is an important factor in the 

development of a productive teamwork mentality. If working with disconnected youth and/or youth 

with disabilities, use these activities to bridge teamwork skills as a stepping-stone to leadership 

development. 
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11. There is No “I” in Team 

JUST THE FACTS: The purpose of this activity is to enrich participants’ understanding of what it means 

to be part of a team and why being a good team player is important for career success.

Time

15-20 minutes

Materials

• Chart paper or sentence strips with markers and/or Activity 11 printed out for each 

participant

Directions

Choose and display five “teamwork” quotes (see Activity 11). This can be done on chart 

paper, using the accompanying worksheet, writing quotes on sentence strips, or reading 

each quote aloud. What is important here is the quote – and not necessarily who said the 

quote. 

Ask participants to choose the quote they like best. Divide the larger group into smaller 

groups according to the chosen quote (i.e., all participants who liked quote #1, etc.). 

Participants should spend approximately two minutes discussing the quote and coming to 

consensus on the reason they liked it the best. One member of each team should be 

prepared to offer the group’s feedback and reflection.

For another, more hands-on version of this activity, write each of the quotes on sentence 

strips. Cut the sentence strips into individual words or manageable chunks/phrases. Have 

groups work together to arrange the words/phrases into the correct order. 

Conclusion

Tell participants that employers rate the ability to be a “team player” as one of the most 

important qualities and characteristics of their current (and future) employees (i.e., the 

job candidate). Ask why this is might be so. Elicit responses and an interactive discussion. 

Journaling Activity

A friend comes to you seeking advice. He got into trouble at work for not being a team 

player. He really likes his job and isn’t quite sure what to do. What suggestions would 

you give to your friend to help him improve? How might he respond to his boss? 
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Extension Activity

Have participants create their own personal quotes about teamwork...why it is important...

what can be accomplished...etc. The quote should be one that encourages peers to gain a 

better understanding and perspective on the importance of teamwork AND why it is often a 

core value shared by many different cultures, populations, and groups. 

Offer the opportunity for participants to research and share proverbs related to teamwork 

from their own cultures.
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Activity 11. Teamwork Quotes

“Individual commitment to a group effort - that is what makes a team work, a company work, a 

society work, a civilization work.” - Vince Lombardi (football coach)

“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” 

- Henry Ford (pioneer of the assembly-line production method)

“There is no such thing as a self-made man. You will reach your goals only with the help of 

others.” - George Shinn (former owner of Charlotte, now New Orleans, Hornets basketball team)

“It is amazing what can be accomplished when nobody cares about who gets the credit.” 

- Robert Yates (politician in the 1700s)

“Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success.” - Author Unknown

“I am a member of a team, and I rely on the team, I defer to it and sacrifice for it, because the 

team, not the individual, is the ultimate champion.” - Mia Hamm (retired American soccer player) 

“Respect your fellow human being, treat them fairly, disagree with them honestly, enjoy their 

friendship, explore your thoughts about one another candidly, work together for a common goal 

and help one another achieve it.” 

- Bill Bradley (American hall of fame basketball player, Rhodes scholar and former three-term Democratic U.S. Senator from 

New Jersey)

“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.” 

- Michael Jordan (former American basketball player, businessman and majority owner of the Charlotte Bobcats) 

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

- Helen Keller (American author, political activist, lecturer, and the first deafblind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree.) 

“The strength of the team is each individual member...the strength of each member is the team.” 

- Phil Jackson (widely considered one of the greatest coaches in the history of the NBA) 

“Unity is strength... when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be 

achieved.” - Mattie Stepanek (advocate on behalf of peace, people with disabilities, and children with life-threatening 

conditions who died one month before his 14th birthday) 

“Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take 

the bus with you when the limo breaks down.” - Oprah Winfrey (American television host, actress, producer, and 

philanthropist)

“Finding good players is easy. Getting them to play as a team is another story.” - Casey Stengel 

(baseball hall of famer)
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12. I’ll Give You Some of Mine if You Give Me Some of Yours

JUST THE FACTS: Part of becoming a functional member of a team is learning to understand what you 

bring to the group and what you might need from others. This exercise is designed to help participants 

begin to identify their individual strengths and needs regarding teamwork. 

Time

30 minutes 

Materials

• Activity 12

• Pens or pencils

• Optional: Chart paper and markers 

Directions

Introduce this activity by reflecting on some of the quotes discussed in Activity 11 (if you 

have not completed Activity 11, choose some of the quotes to discuss with the group – and 

offer a brief discussion on their meaning). 

Ask participants for a list of some of the characteristics they think make up a good team 

player. This might be phrased as follows: “What does it take from each person on a team 

to make a team really work?” 

Students will be completing an individual inventory of the skills they possess related to 

teamwork. This inventory is for personal reflection and need not be shared. 

Conclusion

As part of the concluding activity, ask participants to share one of their identified areas of 

strengths – and one area they would like to improve. This discussion allows each to hear 

from others their areas of strength and need. This process may help those in need of 

assistance identify who might be able to offer it. 

Journaling Activity

Consider your score on the Elements of Teamwork inventory. Were you pleased with your 

results? What are some of the areas you would like to improve? How will you attempt to 

do this? 
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Extension Activity

Have participants ask someone they know and trust to rate them using a blank copy of 

Activity 12. Were the scores/checks similar or different? What does this tell them? Does 

this change any of the notes made related to skills to improve? 

Have participants redesign the activity with words and/or actions that better describe the 

elements of teamwork from their perspective. Another option is for participants to 

schedule a meeting with an employer and get additional input as to how an employer 

might identify or describe the characteristics listed. 
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Activity 12. Elements of Teamwork – An Inventory of Skills

Part of being a good team member is learning how to understand your personal strengths (what you 

have to offer) AND where you might need to draw assistance from others. Listed on this sheet are 10 

of the characteristics that make a productive team member. Rate your level of confidence in each skill 

(HONESTLY) – and then devise a plan for how you can improve some of the areas you think might need 

a “jump start.” 

SKILL #1: RELIABLE

This means: You can be counted on to get the job done.

Rating: ____Not so confident ____Sort of Confident ____Really confident

SKILL #2: EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR 

This means: You express your thoughts and ideas clearly and directly, with respect for others. 

Rating: ____Not so confident ____Sort of Confident ____Really confident

SKILL #3: ACTIVE LISTENER 

This means: You listen to and respect different points of view. Others can offer you constructive 

feedback – and you don’t get upset or defensive. 

Rating: ____Not so confident ____Sort of Confident ____Really confident

SKILL #4: PARTICIPATES

This means: You are prepared – and get involved in team activities. You are regular contributor.

Rating: ____Not so confident ____Sort of Confident ____Really confident

SKILL #5: SHARES OPENLY AND WILLINGLY 

This means: You are willing to share information, experience, and knowledge with the group.

Rating: ____Not so confident ____Sort of Confident ____Really confident

SKILL #6: COOPERATIVE

This means: You work with other members of the team to accomplish the job - no matter what.

Rating: ____Not so confident ____Sort of Confident ____Really confident

SKILL #7: FLEXIBLE 

This means: You adapt easily when the team changes direction or you’re asked to try something new.

Rating: ____Not so confident ____Sort of Confident ____Really confident

SKILL #8: COMMITTED

This means: You are responsible and dedicated. You always give your best effort!

Rating: ____Not so confident ____Sort of Confident ____Really confident
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SKILL #9: PROBLEM SOLVER 

This means: You focus on solutions. You are good about not going out of your way to find fault in others.

Rating: ____Not so confident ____Sort of Confident ____Really confident

SKILL #10: RESPECTFUL 

This means: You treat other team members with courtesy and consideration - all of the time.

Rating: ____Not so confident ____Sort of Confident ____Really confident
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Consider your answers:

Did you have mostly “not so confident” checked off? 

If so, you are still developing your confidence as a team player. These skills often take some time to 

develop – so don’t worry. It might be helpful to reach out to someone you know and trust to help you 

focus on developing a plan for working on some of the skills in which you would like to be more 

confident. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Asking for help when you need it is another great skill of a 

productive team player.

Did you have mostly “sort of confident” checked off?

If so, you are pretty confident in your teamwork skills – but could probably use a little extra support or 

development in a few areas. Invite someone close to you (someone you know and trust), to work with 

you on the areas you would like to improve. Most people would be really happy to help you! Learning 

the strategies to become a good team member takes time, energy, and dedication.

Did you have mostly “really confident” checked off?

If so, you are truly confident in your ability to be a good team player. That’s great! Figure out an area 

or two where you would like to continue to see improvement (since we should always be striving to be 

the best we can be) and develop a plan for how to further grow those skills. Also try to offer support to 

someone you know who might be struggling with building his or her own level of teamwork confidence. 

Now consider your teamwork skills confidence levels: 

I am most proud of my ability to:

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 

I want to improve my ability to: 

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 

I will reach out to some of these people for guidance: 

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________________________
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13. The Good, the Bad, and the Reasonable

JUST THE FACTS: Teamwork can be tough. Dealing with different personalities and compromise is not 

necessarily easy. So, what do you do when you are part of a team and there are barriers to the team’s 

success? This could be a sports team, a team at work, or a group working on a school or community 

project. The purpose of this activity is to engage participants in a discussion of some of the barriers to 

effective teamwork and the strategies they may be able to put in place to create positive outcomes.

Time

25 minutes

Materials

• Flip chart and markers

• Dry spaghetti and marshmallows

• Optional: Timer 

Directions

Ask participants if teamwork is ALWAYS easy. (Most likely you will receive “no” answers). 

Delve deeper and ask about some of the reasons why teams sometimes don’t work or what 

makes teamwork so difficult at times. Write these answers on the flip chart. Answers may 

include: inconsistent team players, time issues, compatibility, differences in 

communication styles (both giving and receiving), lack of trust, no clear goal, etc.

Next, divide participants into groups of four or more. Ask each group to elect a team 

leader for this activity. Give each group a supply of spaghetti and marshmallows. Tell the 

group they will have 15 minutes to work together to create the tallest freestanding 

structure possible. Before you say, “go,” tell the teams that their team leaders may only 

supervise and offer instructions. He or she may not physically participate in this activity.

Conclusion

After 15 minutes, evaluate the structures. Usually the highest structure has a solid and 

wide foundation. Discuss with participants what it means to have a solid foundation – and 

why laying a solid foundation is important (and the core of an effective team). 
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Use the following questions for additional discussion:

1. How did your team work together? What specifically worked well? What difficulties did 

you experience?

2. Besides the team leader, what role did each person play in the group? How was each 

person helpful to the end goal?

3. Was it a plus or a minus that the team leader was not able to physically participate in 

the activity? How did the team leader feel about his or her level of participation?

4. What would you do differently if given a second chance at this activity?

Journaling Activity

You are the leader of a team at work. What type of leader would you like to be – one that 

gets involved and works with the team or one that tells the team what to do? Explain your 

choice. 

Extension Activity

Have participants interview no fewer than 20 of their peers and ask two simple 

questions: 

1. What is the best part of working on a team? 

2. What is the most difficult part of working on a team? 

Participants should be instructed to bring their results back to the larger group. The larger 

group should then examine the most common difficulties described and come up with 

solutions to turn these difficulties into successes. 
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14. How Many Shapes Does it Take? 

JUST THE FACTS: It takes all types of team members to create a balanced, cohesive team. This 

activity will give participants the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the roles different 

people play on a team and the importance of each role. 

Time

20 minutes

Materials

• Five large pieces of paper, each with one of the following shapes drawn: square, 

rectangle, circle, triangle, and squiggle

Directions

Before beginning this activity, place each of the five shapes in a different location in of the 

room. Ensure there is enough room for participants to move around for this activity.

Discuss the fact that teams are all made up of people who perform different roles. Think 

about a sports team (football, basketball, soccer, hockey, etc.). What might happen if one 

basketball player hogged the ball all of the time? What might happen if the quarterback 

tried to run the ball all of the time instead of passing? So, it takes all different types of 

players to make an efficient and winning team, right? 

Now, switch gears. Tell participants that not only does it take all different types of players 

to make a team effective; it takes all kinds of shapes, too. 

Say something to the effect of: “I want you all to look around the room. Five different 

shapes are hanging up. The shapes are a square, a rectangle, a circle, a triangle, and a 

squiggle. What if I told you that knowing whether you, your co-workers and friends are 

squares, rectangles, circles, triangles, or squiggles could help you build better teams and 

better careers?” 

Ask participants to stand up and take a few moments to think about the shape they like 

best or find most appealing. Then ask participants to walk over to that shape. 

Once everyone has chosen their personal shape, use the information in Activity 14 to tell 

them a little bit about each shape’s “personality.” In fact, when you are finished with this 

activity, many participants will want to have a copy of what the shapes mean. 
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Conclusion

Discuss the following questions with the group:

• Do you think people have the characteristics of more than one shape? 

• Why do you think it is important to have all different shapes working on the same 

team? Offer some of the information below, if appropriate:

- The Square, Rectangle, and Triangle are all convergent. This mean they are 

working TOWARDS something specific and finite, and they do it in a logical and 

systematic way. But they might be lacking in personal creativity.

- The Circle and Squiggle are divergent. This mean they are creative, 

extroverted, and intuitive. They will reach out around them into new areas and 

to other people. But they aren’t particularly systematic or dependable.

Journaling Activity

Do you think it is easy or difficult for different types of personalities to work together? 

Why is it important to not only understand how you work best, but to learn how others 

work best? 

 

Extension Activity

Spend some time with participants to explore different types of personality assessments for 

the purpose of team building. Have students take different assessments and determine the 

validity of each. Research further and find out which occupations are best suited for which 

types of personalities. 

Another option is to have participants think about and describe their favorite sport and 

compare players on those teams with the different roles found in the workplace. Examples 

might include: boss – coach; customer – fan; player – co-worker; etc. See how many 

different types of comparisons can be made and how important it is for all of these roles to 

work together in order to create harmony on a team.
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Activity 14. Which Shape are You?

There are some people who believe there are five basic personality types, and each type tends to 

prefer a different shape. Knowing whether you, your co-workers and friends are squares, rectangles, 

circles, triangles, or squiggles just might help you build better careers, teams, and friendships. Here is 

what each shape might say about you – and how you can recognize other people for their shapes.

If you are a SQUARE: You are an organized, logical, and hardworking person who likes structure and 

rules. But sometimes you have trouble making decisions because you always want more information. 

You feel most comfortable in a stable environment with clear directions on what to do. You tend to like 

things that are regular and orderly. You will work on a task until it is finished, no matter what. 

How to spot a square: They appear to move “straight,” use precise or specific gestures, love routine, and are 

very concerned with detail. They are also very neat in their appearance and their personal workspace. They do a 

lot of planning and are always prompt.

If you are a RECTANGLE: You are a courageous (brave), exciting, and inquisitive explorer who always 

searches for ways to grow and change. You enjoy trying things you’ve never done before and love 

asking questions that have never been asked. You like structure, and will often be the person to be 

sure things are done the proper way, taking all rules and regulations into consideration. When you are 

given a task you will start organizing it to be sure it can be done in the most systematic way.

How to spot a rectangle: These people often have “fleeting eyes and flushed faces.” They also tend to giggle and 

they like variety. For example, they’ll come into work early or late — but not on time. And those who have offices 

tend to be disorganized with a mishmash of furniture.

If you are a TRIANGLE: You are a born leader who’s competitive, confident, and can make decisions. 

You also like recognition. You are goal oriented and enjoy planning something out and then doing it 

(you are motivated by the accomplishment). You will tend to look at big long-term issues, but might 

forget the details. When given a task you set a goal and work on a plan for it. American business has 

traditionally been run by triangles and, although usually men, more women are taking those roles 

today. 

How to spot a triangle: They have powerful voices, love to tell jokes, and they play as hard as they work. They 

also tend to be stylish dressers.

If you are a CIRCLE: You are social and communicative. There are no hard edges about you. You 

handle things by talking about them and smoothing things out with everybody. Communication is your 

first priority. When given a task, you will want to talk about it. You are a “people person,” with lots of 

sympathy and consideration for others. You listen and communicate well and are very perceptive about 

other people’s feelings. You like harmony and hate making unpopular decisions. 
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How to spot a circle: They are friendly, nurturing, persuasive, and generous. They tend to be relaxed and smile a 

lot. They’re talkative, but have a mellow voice. They also have a full laugh and like to touch others on the 

shoulder and arm.

If you are a SQUIGGLE: You are “off-the-wall” and creative. You like doing new and different things 

most of the time and get bored with regularity. When given a task, you will come up with bright ideas 

about to do it. But you don’t think in a deliberate pattern from A to B to C. Instead, you tend to jump 

around in your mind, going from A to M to X. 

How to spot a squiggle: They can be “flashy,” dramatic, and extremely creative – and they don’t like highly 

structured environments. Both men and women squiggles tend to be funny and very expressive. They also have 

great intuition. Most performers and writers are squiggles.
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15. Teamwork on the Job

JUST THE FACTS: The purpose of this activity is to help participants understand how teamwork is 

managed on the job – both from the perspective of the boss and from the perspective of the employee.

Time

15 - 30 minutes 

Materials

• Copies of Activity 15a or 15b, depending on your time frame

Directions

This exercise offers two different activities. You may choose one or both, depending on 

time. One is scenario based and one is a role play. 

Activity 15a: For this activity, read (aloud or independently) the library scenario. Discuss 

as a group what Shawn (the librarian) did well, and what she could have done differently. 

How might she handle herself in the future? Discuss how Nathaniel (the boss) should 

handle this situation. Consider the fact that he probably wants to help Shawn to improve 

and not necessarily punish her.

Activity 15b: For this activity, request volunteers to act out a role play. Allow a few 

minutes for the actors to read through the scene so they know what their character is like. 

After the scene is read aloud, ask the following questions: 

• What was the real problem at the coffee shop? 

• What could Jarrod and/or Steffy have done differently?

• Do you agree with how the manager handled the situation? 

• What might you have done in this situation? 

Conclusion

The importance of teamwork is undeniable. Ask the group to come up with a list of the 

benefits of teamwork and to illustrate or give examples of each. If the group has trouble 

coming up with a list, use the following as conversation starters: 

• Support - Teamwork leads to camaraderie between team members. This will not only 

lead to better social relationships, but can also act as a support when things go wrong. 

• Varied skills – Different team members bring with them different skills.

• Distribution of work - Distributing work not only reduces each individual’s burden, but 

also increases responsibility and ensures better commitment to completing the task 

individually and as a whole.
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• Creativity - Different people have different skills and possess different perspectives. 

Therefore any activity that involves teamwork benefits from the various creative 

thoughts and inspirations of different people.

• Accomplish faster – People working together will tend to complete a project faster 

than if one person was working alone. 

Journaling Activity

Extension Activity

Think about a time when you were part of a group/team and things worked really well, and

a time when things didn’t work out so well. What were the situations and what made the

differences? 

Consider different jobs in your community. Arrange for field trips to some local job sites 

where participants can ask both managers and employees a few questions about teamwork 

(or ask an employer and employees to come in to talk about the impact of teamwork on 

the job). Alternatively, participants can do this independently and then share their 

experiences with the larger group. 

Work with participants to develop a single set of questions to ask of managers and 

employees. Questions should be focused on the importance of teamwork and what 

happens when one or more chooses not to be a team player. 
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Activity 15A. Teamwork on the Job

SCENARIO: 

Shawn works in a library. She and three other co-workers have been tasked to work together on a 

project. Shawn turns in the completed product, but she completed it without input or help from the 

others. Shawn said it was really tough to find time to meet together. She did text the others (asking 

about working together), but got no responses. Her supervisor, Nathaniel, knows that she is a promising 

young librarian who wants to advance to a leadership position. Nathaniel also believes that Shawn has 

the potential to be a good leader, but feels she is impatient when it comes to working with others. 

DISCUSSION:

• What did Shawn do well? 

• What could she have done differently? 

• How might she handle herself in the future? 

• How should Nathaniel handle this situation? 

• Consider the fact that he probably wants to help Shawn to improve and not necessarily punish her.
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Activity 15a. Teamwork on the Job

Narrator: Five characters will role play a situation to determine whose job it is to restock the 

condiments at the coffee bar. 

Characters: Jarrod Steffy

 Pam John

 Manager Narrator 

Jarrod: It wasn’t my job! It was Steffy’s job! The policy around here is that the new employee 

restocks cream and sugar station. She’s the newest employee. It’s her job! 

Steffy: I don’t get to work until 10:00. By the time I get here, the station should already be stocked. 

Otherwise, customers won’t have the stuff they need for their coffee. 

Pam: You’re just trying to get out of doing your job. 

Steffy: No! Jarrod gets here at 7:00. He should already have it done by the time I get here. 

Jarrod: You’re the newest employee. 

Steffy: What’s your problem? 

Jarrod: What’s your problem? 

Steffy: I do my job. 

John: But you’re the newest employee. It’s your job to restock. 

Narrator: Voices are getting louder. 

Steffy: But Jarrod gets here earlier. I am only trying to think about our customers. 

Pam: Are you just trying to get out of your job? 

Jarrod: You’re impossible. 

Steffy: No, you are! 

Manager: Okay, okay! What’s the problem? Steffy, continue restocking the condiment station. Jarrod, 

go ring up the customers. 
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Narrator: Both are taking a break from each other to calm down. Later in the day, the manager speaks 

to Jarrod and Steffy. 

Manager: Steffy, Jarrod is right. The new person stocks the cream and sugar station. 

Steffy: So you mean Jarrod shouldn’t have to do this anymore? 

Jarrod: Told you! 

Manager: Jarrod! On the other hand, that rule was made when everyone came to work at the same 

time. However, since Steffy doesn’t come into work until later in the day, the customers have a right 

to have a fully stocked station. 

Jarrod: So Steffy doesn’t have to do this job either?

Steffy: No, I get it! Whoever comes in earliest should restock the station from the night before. 

Jarrod: Okay, so I don’t have to restock the station all day? Just replenish from the night before. 

Steffy should then do it when she comes in – and then throughout her shift?

Manager: Exactly! Also, I would like you two to start treating each other with a little respect. It’s good 

to have a sense of humor. What happened to yours? Every customer and employee that comes in here 

deserves to be treated with courtesy. Okay? And, by the way, the customer is always right and always 

comes first. 

Narrator: (Next day) Their voices are calm and respectful. 

Steffy: Jarrod, I am here now. I’ll finish those. Why don’t you go take a break? 

Jarrod: Okay, thanks! I think I will. Hey look, there’s a whole new kind of sugar that just came in. The 

boxes are in the back. I thought you might want to know. 

Steffy: Thanks, Jarrod. 

Adapted from Problem Solving Video, Workplace Videos 2000, Glencoe McGraw
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Networking

“It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” This common 

When it comes to finding a job, 

you’ve got to network! According to 

Cornell University’s Career Center, 

80% of available jobs are not 

advertised. These jobs are often 

referred to as the “hidden job 

market.”

expression is the basis for understanding the importance of 

networking as a strategy for career development and exploration. 

Everyone has a network, even if you don’t realize it, and when it 

comes to job searching, this network may be just as important as 

your skills and experience. A personal network is that group of 

people with whom you interact every day – family, friends, parents 

of friends, friends of friends, neighbors, teachers, bosses, and 

co-workers. With these people, information and experiences are exchanged for both social and potential 

professional reasons. Networking occurs every time you participate in a school or social event, volunteer in 

the community, visit with members of your religious group, talk with neighbors, strike up a conversation with 

someone at the store, or connect with friends online.

When networking for the purpose of career development, this means talking with friends, family members, 

and acquaintances about your goals, your interests, and your dreams. Most people actually learn about job 

openings through friends, relatives, or others who are part of their personal network, and because each 

person in your network has a network of his or her own, your potential contacts can grow exponentially. This 

is important because more often than not, hiring managers would rather talk to a potential candidate who has 

been recommended by someone they know or already employ. Even if a position is not currently available, 

networking can lead to informational interviews that can help you not only learn about possible career paths, 

but also be great exposure for you to be thought of as a potential candidate when a job opens up. An 

informational interview is not the same as a job interview by any means, but it is probably the most effective 

form of networking there is. In fact, according to Quintessential Careers, one out of every 12 informational 

interviews results in a job offer. This is a remarkable number considering the fact that research indicates that 

only one in every 200 resumes (some studies put the number even higher) results in a job offer. 

Though networking is an important skill, and one that can certainly be taught, it rarely is. Therefore the 

activities in this section focus on the process of networking and its relevance and importance to career 

development. Participants will learn about taking initiative and overcoming fear (which is quite common), 

informational interviewing, as well as potential guidelines to consider when using social networks, texting, and 

email for networking purposes. 

A note for facilitators: Developing networking skills is important for all youth, but particularly for those 

with limited work experiences, which is unfortunately often the case for youth with disabilities. By creating 

opportunities whereby young people can research, talk to, and network with those working in careers of 

interest, the more likely they will be able to make informed choices regarding their future. For youth who 

are hesitant to network or take the steps necessary to arrange informational interviews (for any reason), 

consider using pairs of two for many of the activities in this section. Teaming is one strategy that may help 

participants feel as if they have the support they need while trying out new skills and learning how to 

become a strategic and “seasoned” networker. 
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16. An Introduction to Networking

JUST THE FACTS: The purpose of this activity is to introduce participants to the process of networking 

and to help them begin to understand its relevance to the career development process. 

Time

20 minutes 

Materials

• Chart paper or white board and markers 

Directions

Ask participants the following question: “How do people find jobs?” [List responses]. If the 

following were not discussed, consider including some or all of them on the list: personal 

contacts, secondary or post-secondary career centers, employer websites, Craigslist, 

Internet job sites (such as monster.com, snagajob.com, simplyhired.com or indeed.com), 

One-Stop Career Centers, walk-ins, professional or trade associations.

Ask: “Did you know that approximately 80% of jobs today are NOT advertised?” 

Discuss: “If employers are not advertising, how are people finding jobs?” 

DISCUSSION POINTS:

• Talking to or contacting people you know to find job leads is the most effective way to 

find a job. 

• Most of us find a job through personal contacts—people we already know such as our 

friends and family, doctor, dentist, and people we meet when we go shopping and 

during our normal everyday lives. Personal contacts are also the people that our 

friends and family know.

• Approximately 60% of job hunters find their new job with the help of friends, family 

members, and acquaintances. 

Break the group into smaller groups of three or four. Considering the fact that people most 

often find jobs by interacting with other people, ask each group to spend five minutes 

developing a list of five strategies they might use when looking for a job (who could they 

talk to, what could they say, etc.). Strategies should be geared to creating as many ways 

as possible to tell others you are looking for a job. 
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Conclusion

Ask for a representative from each group to list the strategies they developed. Inform 

participants that what they just accomplished is called (traditional) Professional Networking. 

Learning how to network takes time and commitment. It means seeking out people you 

know, people who can offer advice, as well as potential friends, and building on these 

relationships. Networking is finding ways to “get known” by other who can help you in your 

job search. It is an “active” process for developing new relationships and new 

opportunities. 

Journaling Activity

There are three types of people in this world: those who make things happen, those who 

watch things happen, and those who wonder what just happened. A networker is someone 

who makes things happen. Think about a possible career goal you have. What is it? What 

can you do to develop your networking skills to get more information about this career? 

Extension Activity

Discuss the concept of the informational interview. Informational interviewing is a 

networking activity important to the career development and career exploration process. 

An informational interview is an interview with a person who is doing the kind of work in 

which you are interested. It is an excellent technique to use when you want to: explore 

different career options; learn more about certain occupations; and/or begin to network 

with people who can help you in your job search. Although it is an effective job search 

tool, it’s very important to remember that the primary purpose of an informational 

interview is to obtain information, not a job.

Help participants arrange for an informational interview (either on or off site). Prep 

participants on the types of questions to ask (i.e., what is important to them), the 

importance of asking for a business card, and what to do after the interview. 

Question examples: 

• How did you decide on this field of work?

• How did you get into this field of work?

• What do you like best about your work?

• What do you like the least?

• What is a typical day or week like for someone in your occupation?

• What kind of skills, education, and/or training would I need to get into this area?

• What personal qualities are necessary for someone in this occupation?

• What is a typical entry-level salary? (Do NOT ask how much the person you are 

interviewing earns!)

• Do you know someone else doing this kind of work that I could talk to for my research?
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Follow-up the interview with a thank you note. In it, suggest mentioning the specific 

information that you found to be particularly interesting or helpful. Let the person know 

that you appreciate him/her letting you ask questions and that the information provided will 

be valuable to you.
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17. You Expect Me to do WHAT? TALK to People?

JUST THE FACTS: Traditional networking (talking to people) can be a pretty frightening activity. In 

fact, it can be so overwhelming for some that they may never attempt it! This activity will allow 

participants to initiate the three Ps (prepare, practice, and pull yourself together!) to overcome any 

fear of networking.

Time

20 minutes

Materials

• Optional: One copy of Activity 17 for each participant

Directions

Traditional networking involves talking to people. For some this may be an easy activity, 

while for others it may be scary and uncomfortable. 

According to Lara Zielin, the author of Make Things Happen: The Key to Networking for 

Teens, to avoid feeling nervous or scared when networking, try THE THREE Ps: prepare, 

practice, and pull yourself together! She says, “By doing your best to accomplish each of 

the Ps, you’ll have a good chance of overcoming [any] obstacles and eliminating fear when 

you network.” 

Review and briefly discuss the Three Ps in further detail (the information provided on page 

83 is for facilitator reference, and is not intended to be read verbatim to the group). 

 Have participants explore (either independently or as a group) the scenario in Activity 17 

and complete Part 1 (What did Pradeep do?).

Conclusion

Conclude the discussion by having participants discuss or complete Part 2 of the chart on 

Activity 17 (What are some strategies you could use?).

End with the importance of a thank you note focusing on the value of the person’s time and 

expertise. A thank you note goes a long way to having people remember you.
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Journaling Activity

Think about Pradeep’s story. Think about your wildest career dream. What is it? Now, 

pretend you know someone who knows someone who does that type of work. Which of 

the Three Ps would be the most difficult for you – and why? Which of the Three Ps 

would you feel most comfortable with – and why? 

Extension Activity

Conduct a few role plays with participants on the value of networking. You may even 

choose to bring a few employers in to participate. If you bring in employers, try to 

coordinate the types of employers with some of the interests of the participants in your 

group. Have participants create a Three P “cheat” sheet to help each other prepare for 

the opportunity. 

Have participants either hand-write or email a thank you to the person with whom they 

met. They should thank the person for their time and for the information that was 

provided. Some specifics from the meeting would be great to add, such as, “I really 

appreciated learning about....” Or “Thank you for offering me suggestions on how to 

improve my resume.” Specifics will let the receiver know that the meeting was really 

worthwhile. 
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The Three Ps

ADAPTED FROM: Make Things Happen: The Key to Networking for Teens (Used with Permission) 

PREPARE: Do what you need to do to get ready. For example:

• To prepare for a telephone call, write a script and practice it. Know why you are calling (have 

notes). Prepare yourself on how to leave a message if the person doesn’t pick up or isn’t 

available.

• To prepare for a face-to-face meeting, do a lot of the same as you would for a phone call. If 

you’re meeting with someone to get information about the work they do or a particular company, 

visit the company’s website (if they have one) to learn more about it ahead of time. 

PRACTICE: Practice what you want to say over and over and over. The more you hear yourself say 

what you want to say, the easier it will be – and the more confident you will feel.

• Ever think about smiling when you’re on the telephone? Believe it or not, people can hear that 

confidence in your voice. People can determine friendliness from the tone of your voice. Along 

the same lines, fear can be heard over the phone, too. Concentrate on speaking clearly, be calm, 

and breathe!

• Prepare for one-to-one meetings by practicing with a friend, parent, or someone you know and 

trust. Ask them to role play with you – they could pretend to be the person you are going to meet 

with and you could practice asking the questions you have prepared.

PULL YOURSELF TOGETHER: Part of feeling confident at a networking meeting is feeling good about 

yourself. If you feel good about your appearance, you tend to give your confidence a big boost!

• Good grooming isn’t just for dogs. Don’t forget about those day-to-day essentials like showering, 

brushing your teeth, combing your hair, and using deodorant (this sounds silly, but many adults 

need to be reminded of this, too!) Don’t wear too much perfume or cologne as sometimes people 

are allergic – and wearing too much will make them remember you because of your smell, not for 

your skills or your ideas. 

• Dress the way you think the other person will be dressing. If you were networking with your uncle 

at a family BBQ, shorts and flip-flops might be just fine. But if you’re meeting with someone in a 

professional setting, try to find out what the dress code is and see if you can come close to 

dressing the same (or even one step above). For example, if you’re meeting someone in an office, 

and people usually wear ties, then you should wear a tie, too. If you’re going to meet the head of 

a landscaping company and people usually wear jeans and t-shirts, go one step above and wear 

khakis and a button down shirt, if you have them.

• Don’t forget other important things like a pen and a pad of paper. Your contact might say 

something really great and you’ll want to write it down. It’s always a good idea to take a resume 

with you, even if you’re not meeting with someone for a job. It’s a good way to leave someone 

with a reminder of your skills, talents, and experiences. After all, who knows what might happen? 

Also, ask the person to suggest additional people you could contact to learn more. 
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Activity 17. You Expect me to do WHAT? TALK to People?

SCENARIO:

Pradeep had a friend (Bob) who had a friend (Ray) who started his own company when he was 20 years 

old. Pradeep is a young entrepreneur who also wants to start his own business one day and wanted to 

talk to Ray to learn all he could (what to do and what not to do). Pradeep was reluctant to reach out 

to Ray because he thought Ray was too busy or would think his questions were stupid. Plus, he was 

worried that Ray might tell Bob that his questions were dumb – and Pradeep didn’t want his friend to 

laugh at him. 

Eventually, Pradeep decided that the benefits of networking outweighed the potential harm. After all, 

he knew Ray had built a very successful business from scratch – and Pradeep figured he really had 

nothing to lose. Pradeep also figured that if he really wanted to start his own company, he would have 

to learn how to network in the traditional sense, e.g. with people (and overcome his fear of talking to 

people he didn’t know well). He thought, “Better to do it now (and learn) than to try it later and 

possibly ruin opportunities for my business.”

So Pradeep called Ray, who agreed to a meeting. Before the meeting, Pradeep did some basic research 

to get a better idea of what it takes to start a new business (he looked up average start up costs, how to 

secure a loan, etc.). He also wanted to know about marketing, web design, and product development, so 

he researched Ray’s company to get a better idea of Ray’s business strategy. He had his notes written 

down to be sure to stick to specific issues. Ray was really receptive – especially because Pradeep was 

prepared and didn’t waste his time. In fact, Ray was flattered that Pradeep contacted him.

Part of overcoming his networking fear was just getting the courage to call Ray. The other part of 

overcoming his fear was doing his homework and being prepared. 
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

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The Three Ps

Part 1: What did Pradeep do?

Prepare:__________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 

Practice: _________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Pull Yourself Together!: _____________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 

 

 

Prepare:__________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 

Practice: _________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Pull Yourself Together!: _____________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 

Part 2: What are some strategies you could use?
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18. Using Social Media to Network

This activity gives participants the opportunity to debate the pros and cons of using social media to 

network.

JUST THE FACTS: Google, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Skype, MySpace. These names have all 

become synonymous with social networking in the early 21st century. In fact, social media has become 

so popular it has its very own language! For example, you can “Google” or be “Googled.” You can 

“friend” or “unfriend” someone on Facebook. And you can send tweets to update people on your every 

activity every moment of the day using your Twitter account. [Believe it or not, in the Merriam Webster 

Online Dictionary, “text,” “tweet,” and “Google” are all listed as verbs!]

Time

20 minutes

Materials

• None required 

Directions

Ask the group the following questions:

1. Stand up if you have a Facebook account? (now sit down)

2. Stand up and turn around if you communicate with others by texting? (now sit down)

3. Raise your hand if you have ever Googled someone or something?

Now, read the following aloud (and/or have it written for participants to read while 

listening): 

In May of 2010, the Pew Research Center in Washington, D.C., found that half of American 

teenagers (ages 12-17) send 50 or more text messages a day, with one-third sending more 

than 100 a day. Two-thirds of the texters surveyed said they were more likely to use their 

cellphones to text friends than to call them. Fifty-four percent said they text friends once a 

day, but only 33 percent said they talk to their friends face-to-face on a daily basis.

Many adults are concerned that for young people growing up today (in the age of “social 

media”), online interactions might be eliminating real-world experiences that help to 

develop emotions, personal connections, and the necessary communication skills to succeed 

in the workplace and society. The fear is that this may impact how they operate in the 

world as adults, and how they build adult relationships.

Go around the room and ask the group to count off by ones and twos and divide participants 

into two groups. 
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Each group will be asked to discuss and list no fewer than five reasons why they believe 

using social media (including Facebook and texting) will not only improve the growth and 

development of youth today, but help them to develop higher level communication skills 

than those of their parents and/or grandparents. 

Each group should elect a recorder and a reporter and will be given seven minutes to 

brainstorm their ideas. Report outs should follow.

Conclusion

Discuss the following: A recent study by an executive search firm found that 77 percent of 

recruiters run searches of candidates on the Web to screen them; 35 percent of these same 

recruiters say they’ve eliminated a candidate based on the information they uncovered. 

What does this mean for young jobseekers with regard to online profiles? Discuss as a group 

some of the postings that young people preparing for careers should be careful to avoid. 

Examples include: complaining about a former employer, showing pictures of hard partying, 

descriptions of sexual exploits, abusive or aggressive language, etc.

Journaling Activity

Think about your own personal texting and social media habits. How do you think the use 

of these technologies can support and help you feel more comfortable in face-to-face 

communications? Explain.

Extension Activity

According to CareerBuilder.com, there are three things you can do to protect your online 

image – and your job opportunities: 

1. Be careful. Nothing is private. Don’t post anything on your site or your “friends’” sites 

you wouldn’t want a prospective employer to see. Derogatory comments, revealing or 

risqué photos, foul language, and lewd jokes all will be viewed as a reflection of your 

character.

2. Be discreet. If your network offers the option, consider setting your profile to 

“private,” so that it is viewable only by friends of your choosing. And since you can’t 

control what other people say on your site, you may want to use the “block comments” 

feature. Remember, everything on the Internet is archived, and there is no eraser!

3. Be prepared. Check your profile regularly to see what comments have been posted. 

Use a search engine to look for online records of yourself to see what is out there 

about you. If you find information you feel could be detrimental to your candidacy or 

career, see about getting it removed – and in the meantime make sure you have an 

answer ready to counter or explain “digital dirt.”
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Ask participants to use these strategies to create a DO and DO NOT “cheat sheet” for people 

their parents’ age who are getting ready to look for a job. Help them to understand, in their 

terms, why they should be careful about their online postings. 
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19. Text Vs. Email...Does it Really Matter? 

JUST THE FACTS: Though many teens and young adults consider email an “adult” way to communicate 

and would rather communicate in real-time with texting or other forms of social media, when it comes 

time to apply to college or for a job, email skills will most likely be necessary. Therefore, an 

understanding of “email etiquette” is worthy of discussion. This activity will offer participants the 

chance to challenge themselves to translate text to English and then discuss some of the classic rules 

of email.

Time

20 minutes

Materials

• Activity 19a (Translating Text – one per participant) and Activity 19b (Email Etiquette)

Directions

Disseminate Activity 19a and ask the group to translate the two text messages. This can be

done in whatever way is most comfortable for the group (individually, in pairs, writing, 

sharing aloud, etc.). Share with the group.

Ask if the note to the employer would be appropriate to send? Discuss why or why not. 

Discuss the word “etiquette.” Ask participants if they know it’s meaning and ask for some 

examples. 

Etiquette is the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a 

particular profession or group. 

Some examples include table etiquette (napkin on your lap, do not talk with food in your 

mouth, etc.) and social etiquette (saying please and thank you, and excuse me when you 

interrupt, etc.).

Ask participants if they have ever heard of email etiquette? Ask about some of the 

instances where email would be more appropriate than texting? [Applying to college, 

emailing a professor or a teacher, writing to an employer, etc.]

Ask for some possible “rules” of email. Use Activity 19b as guide/template for discussion.
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Conclusion

Conclude by reviewing and discussing the suggested answers for Activity 19b. 

Additionally, address the use of personal email addresses vs. business/professional ones. 

Why should one avoid using email addresses such as hotfoxychick@xyz.net, 

itsallaboutme@abc.com, or partyanimal@mno.me when applying for a job?

Journaling Activity

You own a business and have decided you need an email policy for your employees. What 

are the three most important factors you would like your employees to understand about 

using their business email accounts? 

Extension Activity

Use this opportunity to ensure all participants have an email account. If they do not, use a 

computer lab or arrange for time at a local library to ensure each has an account they can 

use for job searching and networking purposes. Of course, having an account and using one 

are two different things; write a note to each participant and practice exchanging email 

communications of a professional nature. 
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Activity 19a. Translating Text

I dun knO Y adults R makin such a big deal out of d amount of tym tEnz spNd txtN! It’s a gr8 way 2 kEp 

n tuch w yor fRnds & knO wot ppl R doin & whr dey R.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________

dEr Employer,

I wud lIk 2 apply 4 d dA tym customer srvic positN I saw advRtizd on FB. I hav atachd my resume & hOp 

U wiL agrE dat my skiLz & intRStz R diRctlE relAtd 2 d positN U hav avail. I wud aPrec8 d opRtunET 2 

MEt w U n prsn 2 discuS Y I wud mAk an XLNT employE 4 yor co. 

ty

_________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________
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Activity 19b. Professional Email Etiquette

WHEN EMAILING PEOPLE YOU DON’T KNOW

Email Etiquette: Include a subject line that “helps” the reader 

Possible Reasons:

________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 

Email Etiquette: Include a greeting (Dear...) and a closing (Sincerely,) 

Possible Reasons:

________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 

Email Etiquette: Use business language, spell check, and avoid abbreviations 

Possible Reasons:

________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Email Etiquette: Use business punctuation and formatting 

Possible Reasons:

________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Email Etiquette: Avoid using ALL CAPS 

Possible Reasons:

________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Email Etiquette: Do not use jokes, witty remarks, or sarcasm 

Possible Reasons:

________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Email Etiquette: Avoid gossiping or complaining 

Possible Reasons:

________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Email Etiquette: Keep the communication short and to the point 

Possible Reasons:

________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Email Etiquette: Do not use emoticons (for introductory emails)

Possible Reasons:

________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Email Etiquette: Reread before hitting “send” 

Possible Reasons:

________________________________________________________________________________________ 
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Activity 19a. Translating Text

ANSWERS

I dun knO Y adults R makin such a big deal out of d amount of tym tEnz spNd txtN! It’s a gr8 way 2 kEp n 

tuch w yor fRnds & knO wot ppl R doin & whr dey R.

I don’t know why adults are making such a big deal out of the amount of time teens spend texting! It’s 

a great way to keep in touch with your friends and know what people are doing and where they are.

dEr Employer,

I wud lIk 2 apply 4 d dA tym customer srvic positN I saw advRtizd on FB. I hav atachd my resume & hOp 

U wiL agrE dat my skiLz & intRStz R diRctlE relAtd 2 d positN U hav avail. I wud aPrec8 d opRtunET 2 

MEt w U n prsn 2 discuS Y I wud mAk an XLNT employE 4 yor co. ty

Dear Employer,

I would like to apply for the daytime customer service position I saw advertised on Facebook. I have 

attached my resume and hope you will agree that my skills and interests are directly related to the 

position you have available. I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you in person to discuss 

why I would make an excellent employee for your company.

Thank you.
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Activity 19b. Professional Email Etiquette

POSSIBLE ANSWERS

Email Etiquette: Include a subject line that “helps” the reader

Possible Reasons: A meaningful subject line helps to clarify what your message is about – and also 

might help the reader to prioritize reading your email.

Possible Reasons: Email should mimic a written letter. Always begin with Dear.... – and end with 

Sincerely. Sincerely is often the best “professional” choice for a closing.

Email Etiquette: Use business language, spell check, and avoid abbreviations.

Possible Reasons: Emails are considered professional or business correspondence. You want to be sure 

everything is spelled correctly and can be easily understood.

Email Etiquette: Use business punctuation and formatting

Possible Reasons: Same as above.

Email Etiquette: Avoid using ALL CAPS

Possible Reasons: ALL CAPS USUALLY MEANS YOU ARE SCREAMING. NO ONE LIKES TO BE YELLED AT, 

EVEN IN AN EMAIL.

Email Etiquette: Do not use jokes, witty remarks, or sarcasm

Possible Reasons: Jokes and witty remarks may be inappropriate and often do not translate well in 

email (since the reader decides the “tone”).

Email Etiquette: Avoid gossiping or complaining

Possible Reasons: Emails can be forwarded to others quickly. You never know who will see/hear what 

you wrote.

Email Etiquette: Keep the communication short and to the point

Possible Reasons: Anything long or complex should be addressed in person or over the telephone.

Email Etiquette: Do not use emoticons (for introductory emails)

Possible Reasons: Business emails should not use emoticons because they are not considered 

“professional” – plus not everyone knows what they mean. If you know the person, you can use them 

sparingly (if you want to shed light on how you are feeling).

Email Etiquette: Reread before hitting “send”

Possible Reasons: Once you hit “send,” there is no turning back! 

Email Etiquette: Include a greeting (Dear...) and a closing (Sincerely,)
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20. It's a Small World

JUST THE FACTS: This activity will get participants thinking about different relationships and how 

those relationships start to “weave a web” of networking. It will help them begin to realize how to use 

their current networks to broaden their future networks. After all, it’s all about whom you know...who 

knows someone...who knows someone...and so on.

Time

30 – 40 minutes

Materials

• Activity 20 (Degrees of Separation – one copy for each participant)

Directions

Ask participants if they have ever heard of the concept “six degrees of separation” (a 

networking theory that explains that everyone is, on the average, connected to everyo

else by six steps (i.e., friend of a friend). 

ne 

Let participants know you will be spending a bit of time thinking about whom they know 

– and how to expand this list of whom they know to whom they want to know.

Discuss the concept of “degrees” of relationships using the chart on Activity 20 – and the 

differences between first, second, and third degree relationships. Further explain that 

networking is all about weaving a web of contacts and strengthening relationships (so 

others can help you and you can help others).

Spend a few minutes brainstorming what type of person might be a first or second degree 

contact (use the examples listed on Activity 20, but recognize that those listed may not be 

appropriate for all participants). 

Participants should spend a bit of time thinking about and writing down the names of 

people who are closest to them (first degree). Do the same with second degree. 

Participants should consider acquaintances, or people they don’t know very well – but 

might be helpful to get to know a little better. 
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Conclusion

Conclude this activity by discussing ways to strengthen second degree contacts. For 

example, take some time to get to know the barista’s name at the coffee shop, send your 

counselor a birthday card, or congratulate your neighbor on the birth of a child. Discuss the 

fact that it is often the small things we do that help to make a connection with someone 

else and this is what networking is all about.

Journaling Activity

Think about your career dreams. Now, who might you list in your third degree? Who might 

you want to meet or get to know? Do not limit yourself. You might think some of these 

people will be impossible to meet – but if you are patient, persistent, and up for a 

challenge, you just never know. The only thing you DO know is if you don’t try, you’ll never 

find out. 

Extension Activity

Work with participants to build a list of third degree contacts and work together to develop 

a plan for possible ways to make contact. Then, use third degree contacts to set up a series 

of informational interviews. As a group, decide on some of the questions that might be 

important to ask during an informational interview (see below for examples), and why it 

would be important to send a thank-you after the interview. 

Sample questions to ask during an informational interview:

• What do you do at this company?

• What is the best part of your job?

• What type of education or training is necessary to do this type of job?

• What other types of jobs are there at this company?

• Can you tell me more about this company?

• How do you apply for a job at this company?

• Can you look at my resume and give me some feedback on it?

Participants should share experiences with the group after informational interviews occur. 

Each should be prepared to discuss the aspects of the informational interview that went 

really well, and explore any parts that didn’t go as well as expected. 
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Activity 20. Degrees of Separation

Picture or draw a dart board with three concentric circles (a middle bull’s eye/target with a larger 

circle around it, and then another larger circle around it). 

The middle circle – or the bull’s eye – is your FIRST DEGREE CONTACTS. These are the people 

closest to you - those people in your life who you love and can depend on. You see these people often 

and have good relationships with them. Examples of people in your first degree might include: 

parents and siblings, best friends, relatives (including grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins), 

coaches, a boyfriend or girlfriend, etc.

 Name Relationship to you

 Example: uncle, brother, mother

The next circle is your SECOND DEGREE CONTACTS. The people in this circle are those you “kindasorta” know – but you might only feel comfortable interacting with them occasionally. These people 

are aware of you, and you are aware of them, but you don’t have a close relationship. Some of these 

people might be those you say “hi” to in school or at the gym, the barista at the local coffee shop, the 

neighbor who waves to you while walking the dog. EXAMPLES of people in your second degree might 

include: co-workers (if you have a job), teachers or counselors, your friends’ parents, neighbors, etc.

 Name Relationship to you

 Example: friend’s parent, neighbor

The outermost circle is your THIRD DEGREE CONTACTS. These are people who you WANT to meet or 

know. These are people who could potentially help you with your career dreams. This could be 

anyone. Don’t underestimate yourself!

 Name Relationship to you

 Example: local politician, chef at a local restaurant, etc.
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Problem Solving and Critical Thinking

Everyone experiences problems from time to time. Some of our problems are big and complicated, while 

others may be more easily solved. There is no shortage of challenges and issues that can arise on the job. 

Whether in an office or on a construction site, experiencing difficulties with the tasks at hand or with coworkers, the workplace presents ongoing challenges on a daily basis. Whether these problems are large or 

small, they need to be dealt with constructively and fairly. Having the necessary skills to identify solutions to 

problems is one of the skills that employers look for in employees.

Employers say they need a workforce 

fully equipped with skills beyond the 

basics of reading, writing, and arithmetic 

to grow their businesses. These skills 

include critical thinking and problem 

solving, according to a 2010 Critical 

Skills Survey by the American 

Management Association and others.

Problem solving and critical thinking refers to the ability to use 

knowledge, facts, and data to effectively solve problems. This 

doesn’t mean you need to have an immediate answer, it means 

you have to be able to think on your feet, assess problems and 

find solutions. The ability to develop a well thought out solution 

within a reasonable time frame, however, is a skill that 

employers value greatly. 

Employers want employees who can work through problems on their own or as an effective member of a 

team. Ideal employees can think critically and creatively, share thoughts and opinions, use good judgment, 

and make decisions. As a new employee, you may question why an organization follows certain steps to 

complete a task. It may seem to you that one of the steps could be eliminated saving time, effort, and 

money. But you may be hesitant to voice your opinion. Don’t be; employers are usually appreciative when 

new employees are able to offer insight and fresh perspective into better and more efficient ways of doing 

things. It is important to remember, however, that as someone new to the organization, you may not always 

have the full picture, and thus there may be factors you are unaware of that dictate that things be done in a 

particular way. Another important thing to remember is that when you are tasked with solving a problem, you 

don’t always need to answer immediately. 

The activities in this section focus on learning how to solve problems in a variety of ways in the workplace. 

Participants will hear about how to properly tell the difference among criticism, praise, and feedback and 

reacting appropriately. The section will also review strategies for making ethical decisions, solving problems 

on a team with others, and learning how to take into account others’ perceptions when assessing actions or 

statements in the workplace.

A note to facilitators: Building self-determination skills, such as goal setting, decision-making, selfadvocacy, and problem solving should be included in career planning for all youth. Youth with disabilities 

and/or other (perceived) barriers to employment and/or disconnected youth will tend to have a resiliency 

not always experienced by their same aged peers – and not always easily seen or understood by themselves 

or by adults. You are encouraged to use the activities in this section to help young people explore how the 

obstacles they (or those they know) may face in life can pose an opportunity for developing and 

demonstrating maturity, responsibility, and wisdom. Providing young people with safe opportunities to 

explore how their personal resiliency can be used to develop enhanced problem solving and conflict 

resolutions skills is a opportunity many adults may shy away from, but one that may ultimately be a gift.
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21. Praise, Criticism, or Feedback

JUST THE FACTS: In a work setting, we give and receive many different types of information. The 

purpose of this activity is to help participants determine the differences between criticism, praise, and 

feedback – not only how to offer it, but how to receive it as well. 

Time

20 minutes 

Materials

Directions

Discuss the difference between praise, criticism, and feedback and ask participants for 

examples of each. 

• Praise: an expression of approval

• Criticism: an expression of disapproval based on perceived mistakes or faults

• Feedback: information about a person’s performance of a task – used primarily as a 

basis for improvement

Divide the group into pairs of two. Read the following statements aloud – one at a time. It 

is suggested that the facilitator use different voice tones to truly help participants 

differentiate the intended meaning of each sentence (which, by the way, can certainly 

vary). After each statement, give each pair 10 seconds to decide whether the statement is 

criticism, praise, or feedback. Someone from each team should hold up the card that 

represents a collective decision. If chart paper and sentence strips were used, participants 

could move around the room to match each statement to what they believe to be the 

correct match.

1. Mr. Jones told me how much he appreciated your thank you note after the job 

interview. He thought it was a great personal touch.

2. Your desk is such a mess. Are you sure you are not trying to grow your own paper?

3. I noticed that you’ve been coming in late the last couple of days.

4. How many times do I have to tell you how to file these documents?

5. You look great today.

6. It would work better for me if I could explain my version of the story out loud before 

you ask questions.

• One set of “Praise | Criticism | Feedback” cards for each group. Alternatively, you 

might choose to hang three pieces of chart paper – each with one of the words on it.

Slips of paper could be made with the statements below. 
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7. You’ve improved a lot this week.

8. I found it difficult to evaluate this resume because it was messy.

9. I liked it much better when we got to choose the projects instead of being assigned to one.

With the larger group, discuss the different ways people may react or respond differently 

to praise, criticism, and feedback. It is inevitable that we will all receive criticism at some 

point on the job, and the way in which we respond can impact our own attitude and the 

attitudes of those with whom we work. Discuss with the group how they, personally, 

respond differently to praise vs. feedback vs. criticism. 

Conclusion

Take the opportunity to rephrase the way in which any of the above statements were 

made. How might rephrasing get a different response or reaction? If you had to make a 

rule for how you would like to receive feedback and criticism, what would that rule be?

Journaling Activity

How does it make you feel when others criticize the work you do? Are you able to respond 

to feedback differently? Think about a time when you criticized someone else. What 

happened? How did that situation ultimately make you feel? 

Extension Activity

Often times, the inability to give and/or receive criticism and feedback might cause 

conflict in the workplace. Reach out to the National Institute for Advanced Conflict 

Resolution (http://www.niacr.org/pages/about.htm) to find local, no-cost training 

opportunities or workshops for participants. You might also try your state or county’s 

mediation center (often connected to juvenile services) to see what programs are offered.
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PRAISE

CRITICISM

FEEDBACK
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22. Workplace Ethics

JUST THE FACTS: We all have our own set of values or standards of behavior that we operate by on a 

daily basis. However, we may not always feel we can apply these same principles or standards while at 

work. The purpose of this lesson is to help participants learn some of the steps necessary to make 

ethical decisions on the job. 

Time

30 minutes

Materials

Directions

Ask participants the following questions – and discuss answers with the group: How do you 

make decisions? Is decision-making a skill that was taught to you? Do you have personal 

rules for decision-making? If you have rules, do these rules change if you are making 

decisions at home, at school, with friends, or at work? 

Now, let’s discuss ethics. What are ethics? [Possible answer to be discussed: a set of 

(often unspoken – and generally understood) moral principles relating to a specified group, 

field, or form of conduct; a group of moral principles, standards of behavior, or set of 

values regarding proper conduct in the workplace]. 

Ethics on the job often deal with a code of conduct or a set of principles for BOTH the 

employer and the employee. Ask for and offer some examples of workplace ethics from 

both the EMPLOYER and the EMPLOYEE. For example: 

A list of work ethics for an employer or a company might be:

• To provide a safe work environment for staff and employees 

• To treat employees with dignity and respect

• To provide a fair wage for the services rendered

• To handle all business transactions with integrity and honesty

• Activity 22 – one copy for each participant (or group). These materials were adapted 

from Lesson Planet: Tools For Success: A Study in Employer/Personnel Issues, Ethics, 

and Professional Behavior (Alabama Learning Exchange)
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A list of work ethics for an employee might include:

• To show up on time

• To tend to company business for the whole time while at work

• To treat the company’s resources, equipment, and products with care

• To give respect to the company; that means honesty and integrity

Ask the group what types of ethical issues might come up at work?

Choose one of the scenarios in Activity 22 for group discussion (be sure to read the 

introduction first). Read the scenario aloud (and have copies for those who would like to 

read it as well). With the group, walk through a basic process for ethical decision-making. 

Four-Step Process for Making Ethical Decisions at Work:

1. Define the problem (or ethical situation).

2. List the facts that appear to be most significant to the decision (and consider who is 

affected).

3. List two or three possible solutions (and how these solutions could impact each person).

4. Decide on a plan of action.

Divide the group into four smaller groups (and have each group choose one of the 

remaining scenarios). Each group should take no more than 10 minutes to read, discuss, 

and have a plan in place for discussion. 

Conclusion

Do you think these situations really happen on the job – in real life? Share how the 

decision-making process worked for each group. Were these easy problems to solve? 

Journaling Activity

When it comes to decision-making, there are some people who like to make decisions by 

themselves, while others would like to talk things through with someone else. Which type 

of person are you? Give an example or two. What are some of the pros and cons associated 

with each type of decision-maker?

Extension Activity

Have the group create additional “case studies” to share with each other for problem 

solving practice. Participants might ask an adult they know to offer a “real life” example 

of an ethical dilemma they have faced. These should be shared with the group.

You might also consider expanding the discussion to include more examples of sexual 

harassment on the job. Unfortunately, this is not an uncommon issue for teens to be 

dealing with on the job. 
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Activity 22. Workplace Ethics: Case Studies

For each of the following case studies, assume you are employed by a large computer company, with 

approximately 1,000 employees. The company is located in your town. Read each case study and 

follow the four steps for making ethical decisions. You will be discussing your decision-making process 

(and your ultimate decision) with the group. 

Case 1: LaKeisha is an administrative assistant in the Human Resources Department. Her good friend 

Michael is applying for a job with the company and has agreed to be a reference for him. Michael asks 

for advice on preparing for the interview. LaKeisha has the actual interview questions asked of all 

applicants and considers making him a copy of the list so he can prepare.

Case 2: Emily works in the Quality Control Department. Once a year, her supervisor gives away the 

company’s used computers to the local elementary school. The company does not keep records of 

these computer donations. Emily really needs a computer. Her supervisor asks her to deliver 12 

computers to the school.

Case 3: Marvin is an assistant in the Building Services Department. He has just received a new work 

computer and is excited to try it out. His supervisor has a strict policy about computer usage (for 

business purposes only), but Marvin wants to learn the email software. He figures one good way to do 

this is to send emails to his friends and relatives until he gets the hang of it. He has finished all of his 

work for the day and has 30 minutes left until his shift is over. His supervisor left early.

Case 4: Jennie was recently hired to work as a receptionist for the front lobby. As receptionist, she is 

responsible for making copies for the people in her office. Her son, Jason, comes in and needs some 

copies for a school project. He brought his own paper and needs 300 copies for his class. If he doesn’t 

bring the copies with him, he will fail the project. The company copier does not require a security key, 

nor do they keep track of copies made by departments.

Case 5: Nonye works in the Customer Service Support Department and spends a lot of his day 

responding to email. One day he got a message from an email address he didn’t recognize. It said, 

“I’d like to get to know you better, outside of work.” Nonye had no idea who sent it, so he deleted it. 

A few days later, he received another message from the same source. Nonye ignored the message 

again, thinking they would stop. He mentioned these emails to one of his co-workers, who responded, 

“You’re lucky to have a fan.” The messages continue to come every few days and he’s feeling pretty 

weirded out. 
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Activity 22. Continued - Steps to Solving Ethical Dilemmas

Identify the problem or ethical issue: 

 

 

What are the facts? 

 

 

What are some possible solutions? 

	 	 	 	 	 	 	 	 	 	 	 	

What are you going to do? 

 

Also consider....how will you know if your decision was the right one?
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23. Problem Solving on a Team 

JUST THE FACTS: Working together to solve problems is not always easy. The purpose of this activity 

is to have participants explore how effective teams might address problems that occur among its 

members.

Time

30 minutes

Materials

• Activity 23 

Directions

There are times when getting a team of people to work together successfully on a job or at 

school can be a challenge. Occasionally one person might display a bad attitude (for one 

reason or another) and cause the team to be less than productive. Activity 23 presents 10 

different situations where the action of one team member is interfering with the team’s 

success. 

Divide a large group into smaller groups. Have participants act out or create a skit for 

each situation – providing both positive and negative alternatives for working through and 

solving each problem. Participants should take turns being the “difficult” team member. 

Participants can compare skits and responses and, ultimately, decide (as a larger group) on 

the best way(s) to handle each situation. 

Conclusion

Should each person on the team be “dealt” with in the same way? Are there ever any 

exceptions? Explain. 

Journaling Activity

Think about a time when you were on a team and one member of the team wasn’t contributing. How was the situation handled? What might you have done differently? If you 

are a team leader, what can you do to help all team members contribute? 

Extension Activity

Using the problems listed in Activity 23, invite employers in to talk about how these 

situations are handled at their place of employment. 
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Activity 23. Problem Solving on a Team

It’s hard work to keep a team working well together. What would you say to or do about a team member 

in the following situations?

1. Is always late. 

2. Whispers to others or starts side conversations during discussions. 

 

3. Gets upset when his/her recommendations are not followed. 

4. Hogs the conversation/discussion. 

5. Leaves before the job/work is done. 

6. Constantly tells jokes and gets people off track. 

 

7. Refuses to work with another “certain” team member. 

 

8. Won’t share in the leadership role. 

 

9. Falls asleep. 

10. Just sits there. 

 
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JUST THE FACTS: Perception is one’s ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through our 

senses. It is a way of understanding or interpreting something. Sometimes the way we perceive the 

actions or statements of those around us may or may not reflect what is actually intended. This is 

generally due to our previous life experiences and/or what we believe. The purpose of this activity is to 

get participants to reflect on and consider different perceptions and how to be proactive in making 

decisions based on those perceptions.

24. Perception vs. Reality 

Time

15 minutes

Materials

• Activity 24

• Optional: Flip chart and markers 

Directions

Write the following on a flip chart OR have one copy of the sentence for each participant: 

FINISHED FILES ARE THE RESULT OF YEARS OF SCIENTIFIC STUDY COMBINED 

WITH THE EXPERIENCE OF YEARS.

Ask the group to count the number of “Fs” in the sentence (allow 15 seconds). On average, 

most people will only spot three or four of the Fs in the sentence. There are actually six. 

(The brain tends to skip the word “of,” or perceive it as “versus”). Point: One’s perception 

may not always be correct. 

Read the following short paragraphs aloud (or ask a youth participant to read): 

1. Bob’s daughter is on the basketball team, but she doesn’t get to play much. His 

daughter works hard and never complains, but Bob believes this is yet another 

injustice in his life and his daughter is not getting a fair shake. Bob becomes 

annoyed and irritated. He angrily confronts the coach, embarrassing his daughter. 

2. John’s daughter is on the basketball team, but she doesn’t get to play much. His 

daughter works hard and never complains. John believes that the coach wants to 

win and most likely plays the girls that will help him reach that goal. John feels 

proud of his daughter’s commitment to the team despite not getting to play very 

much. John offers to help his daughter improve her basketball skills.
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Is there any difference in the events as they were described? What is the critical factor in 

the different ways each person reacted? PERCEPTION! Bob believed the coach’s actions 

were totally unfair – and John believed the coach was generally fair. Why might each 

person perceive the situation differently? 

Now, discuss the four situations listed in Activity 24. How might different people react to 

these situations? What might their reactions be based on? If a friend found him or herself 

in one of these situations, what advice would you offer? 

Conclusion

As a group, discuss some of the strategies you might use when faced with a situation similar 

to the ones in this activity. Is there always a right or wrong way to respond? Are there 

certain things you should always try to do? If so, what are they? 

Journaling Activity

Think about how you perceive yourself and how others perceive you. Do you think both are 

the same? Explain. What are some things you can you do to change others’ perception of 

you?

Extension Activity

Use Google Images (or a similar search engine) to locate different posters or illustrations of 

perception vs. reality. Print them out and offer reasoning as to why perceptions and 

realities might not always be the same.
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Activity 24 - Perception Vs. Reality

WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

1. Your boss is talking to another employee as you walk into work. You have reason to believe they 

are talking about you. This makes you feel uncomfortable and upset.

2. A close friend gets to go on a senior trip, all expenses paid. You are jealous that this friend does 

not have to pay a dime – his or her parents are paying for everything. You consider not going 

because you have to pay for part of your trip and do not think it is fair. 

3. At work, you developed a new way to organize the filing system that makes it easier for the 

office staff to find documents. You think your supervisor is going to take all the credit.

4. You are a nurse. The patient you are working with is ungrateful and rude, is always finding fault 

in everything you do, and is making your life miserable.
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25. Tell Me About a Time When...

JUST THE FACTS: Thinking on your feet is an important part of getting and keeping a job. 

Interviewers will often ask “behavioral” questions in addition to technical questions about actual job 

skills. Often times, these open-ended questions will begin with, “Tell me about a time when....” Being 

prepared for these types of questions – and having a plan for answering them – is an important skill. 

The purpose of this lesson is to introduce a strategy that participants can use to answer these types of 

questions calmly and effectively. 

Time

30 minutes

Materials

• Activity 25 (one for each participant)

Directions

Ask participants the following questions:

1. Who has been on a job interview?

2. What types of questions were you asked?

3. Were you ever asked questions that started with, “Tell me about a time when you...?”

Discuss with participants that many of today’s employers ask certain types of questions to see 

how well people can think on their feet. Sometimes these questions are easy to answer and 

other times, not so much. There is a strategy to use called STAR to help guide you through 

the process of answering these questions in a clear and complete way. Use the description on 

Activity 25 to describe this technique. Before asking participants to work on their own 

answers, use the following as an example of how the method works.

Question: Tell me about a time when you provided customer service to an upset client.

S - (Situation/Task) 

I was volunteering as an office assistant in the payroll department of a local nonprofit 

organization. An angry employee came to my desk and explained that his check amount was 

too low and that he wasn’t able to pay rent on time because of the mistake.
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A - (Action)

I promised the man that I would work with him to figure out what happened and what 

could be done. I compared the payroll records logbook with the computer payroll database. 

I discovered a data error, which explained the incorrect amount. I explained what

happened and was able to put in a request to give the man a check for his missing balance.

R - (Result)

The employee thanked me and even asked to speak with my supervisor about how helpful I 

was.

Offer participants the opportunity to work with one or a few peers. Encourage them to 

practice answering these questions and learning from each other. The more these types of 

questions are practiced, the easier they will be in an actual work or college interview. 

Conclusion

What was the easiest part of this activity? What was the most difficult part of this activity? 

How might you practice the STAR technique? Do you think it would be worth practicing? 

Why or why not?

Journaling Activity

Part of learning how to answer behavioral questions using the STAR method is recognizing 

your own skills and the areas where you have improved. Do you feel comfortable talking 

about your skills? If yes, how did you reach this level of comfort? If no, how can you learn 

to develop this level of comfort?

Extension Activity

Arrange for participants to meet with a series of employers for mock interviews. Ask 

employers to use a sampling of the behavioral interview questions they use most 

frequently when interviewing potential candidates. Part of self-improvement is selfreflection. How can you use this activity to improve your soft skills overall? 
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Activity 25. Tell me About a Time When...

Use the STAR strategy below to guide you in answering the sample interview questions, “Tell me about 

a time when you...”

Situation (or Task): Describe the situation that you were in or the task that needed to be 

accomplished. Be specific and give enough detail so that the interviewer understands. The situation 

could be from a previous job, a volunteer experience, school, or another relevant environment.

Action you took: Describe the action you took. Be sure to keep the focus on you! Even if you’re 

discussing a group project or effort, talk about what YOU did – not the efforts of the entire team. 

Don’t say what you might do or what you might have done. Say what you DID.

Results you achieved: What happened? How did the event end? What did you accomplish? What did 

you learn?

TELL ME ABOUT A TIME WHEN YOU:

 ...did not agree with a teacher or supervisor? How did you handle the situation? 

 ...were able to use persuasion to successfully convince someone to see things your way. 

 ...were faced with a stressful situation that demonstrated your coping skills.

 ...used good judgment and logic to solve a problem.

 ...set a goal and were able to meet or achieve it.

 ...had to conform to a policy with which you did not agree.

 ...had too many things to do and were required to prioritize your tasks.

 ... were able to successfully deal with another person even when that individual may not have 

personally liked you (or vice versa).

 ...tried to accomplish something and failed.

 ...had to deal with a very upset customer or co-worker.

 ...you motivated others.
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Professionalism

Throughout our working lives, most of us will have many different jobs, each requiring a different 

level or set of skills. No matter the industry – from customer service to an office job to construction 

and the trades – all of these jobs have one thing in common: in order to succeed and move ahead, you 

need to demonstrate professionalism. Professionalism does not mean wearing a suit or carrying a 

briefcase; rather, it means conducting oneself with responsibility, integrity, accountability, and 

excellence. It means communicating effectively and appropriately and always finding a way to be 

productive. 

Employers want new workers to 

be responsible, ethical, and team 

oriented, and to possess strong 

communication, interpersonal,

and problem solving skills. Wrap 

these skills up all together and 

you’ve got professionalism.

As today’s labor market becomes more and more competitive, 

jobseekers will need to continually find ways to stand out from the 

crowd. There are few things an employer values more than 

employees who carry out their duties in a professional manner. 

Professionalism isn’t one thing; it’s a combination of qualities. A 

professional employee arrives on time for work and manages time 

effectively. Professional workers take responsibility for their own 

behavior and work effectively with others. High quality work standards, honesty, and integrity are also 

part of the package. Professional employees look clean and neat and dress appropriately for the job. 

Communicating effectively and appropriately for the workplace is also an essential part of 

professionalism. 

Regardless of the job or industry, professionalism is easy to spot. On a construction site or in a trade, 

a professional worker will work hard and manage time effectively, including arriving and returning on 

time from breaks. A professional worker in a customer service setting will speak clearly and politely to 

customers and colleagues and have neat and clean appearance. In an office setting, an employee with 

professionalism will work productively with others and strive for a high standard and constant 

improvement. Professionalism may look slightly different in various settings, but the core elements 

are always the same – and give young employees an edge as they begin their careers.

The activities in this section focus on each of the five individual soft skills presented in this 

publication (communication, enthusiasm/attitude, teamwork, networking, and problem solving/critical 

thinking), but in a broader framework. This is because professionalism, in and of itself, is not one skill 

but the blending and integration of a variety of skills. When professionalism is demonstrated, it tends 

to be thought of as the entire package.
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A note to facilitators: Professionalism is not an easy skill to develop, since it is the make-up of 

many different skills all “mushed” together and tends to take years of experience to perfect. More 

than any of the other soft skills covered in this publication, professionalism is the one that 

employers (and others) say they “know it when they see it.” Recognizing that there is a population 

of young people who may struggle with one or more of the individual skills that make up 

professionalism, it is important to provide a safe environment for all youth who are determined to 

practice and reinforce these skills. Young people need an environment where they feel safe enough 

to make mistakes, learn from their mistakes, and have opportunities (and the encouragement) to try 

again. It is by offering a safe environment along with encouragement that all youth can succeed 

and develop their own personal style of professionalism.
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26. Professionalism in Today's Workforce

JUST THE FACTS: The face of the workplace is constantly evolving as one generation begins to retire 

and another moves up to take its place. In 2010, an office may have a mix of baby boomers (and older), 

Gen X-ers, and Gen Y-ers (Millennials) all working together. In addition to generational differences, 

differences in education, upbringing, social norms, and values may create cultural gaps that may lead 

to misunderstandings or conflicts at times. In reality, a variety of perspectives in the workplace can 

actually benefit and strengthen an organization. The purpose of this activity is to have participants 

discuss how to bridge generational, cultural, and other diversity gaps in order to build a new standard 

for professionalism in the workplace.

Time

30 minutes

Materials

• Optional: Flip chart/markers

• Activity 26 (The Cultural Divide)

Directions

Today’s workforce is made up of people from many different generations. In fact, some 

workplaces include people ranging in age from 16 to 70 (or older) all working together. 

How can these different generations of workers all get along when so often their values, 

ideas, and experiences are so different? 

Begin a discussion around something like: 

• What do you think the older generation thinks of the younger generation? [Examples 

may include: lazy, lack of loyalty and respect, need for constant feedback, unrealistic 

(expect to get to the top right away)] 

• What does your generation think of the older generations? [Examples may include: 

inflexible, slow, set in their ways, technologically incompetent] 

• Do you think these ideas are always true? Sometimes true? Never true? Why do you 

think each group may have these ideas about the other group? 

Discuss the word “stereotype.” Use the following for discussion or use a definition from 

another source: According to the online Urban Dictionary, a stereotype is used to 

categorize a group of people. When we stereotype groups of people, we depict all people 

within that group as having the same characteristics. 

What causes these stereotypes? How can our society rid itself from grouping people by 

stereotypes?
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Divide the larger group into groups of no more than four. Each group will be using Activity 

26 to discuss some of the situations that might create a “cultural divide” in the workplace. 

Discuss the small group answers as a larger group.

Conclusion

Draw out a list of some of the strategies one can use on the job to ensure that everybody 

works well together (not just different generations). Discuss some of the proactive steps 

one might take to ensure stereotyping does not occur on the job. Some examples might 

include: 

• Look past stereotypes 

• Find common ground

• Learn from each other

• Listen to each other 

• Acknowledge and appreciate differences

• Promote intergenerational discussions

Journaling Activity

Think about a time when someone made a biased judgment about you or acted unfairly 

toward you because of your age, skin color, clothes you were wearing, gender, the way you 

speak, where you live, how much money your family has, or some other reason. Why do 

you think those assumptions were made about you? How did that experience make you 

feel? How do you think you should have been treated in that situation?

Extension Activity

Connect with an employer who can talk about diversity in the workplace – its importance, 

its relevance, and how most companies strive for workplaces that are free of stereotyping 

(of all kinds) and full of diversity. 

You may also wish to delve further into a discussion about groups who tend to face 

stereotyping and stigma (such as people with disabilities, people of color, people with 

criminal backgrounds, teen parents, certain cultures, etc.) and what a world without stigma 

and prejudice might look and feel like. Participants can work together to come up with a 

slogan or educational campaign for promoting a workforce that truly celebrates diversity 

and inclusion. 
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Activity 26. The Cultural Divide 

Today’s workforce is very diverse. People of different ages and backgrounds are working alongside one 

another more so today than ever before. The purpose of this activity is to consider how we perceive 

others and how others may perceive us, as well as whether or not these perceptions paint an accurate 

picture of who we are. Consider the following situations:

Sandra is 19 years old and has her first job as an administrative assistant. She wears very low cut 

shirts, short skirts, heels, and lots of perfume.

What might Sandra’s attire lead others to believe about her? What might the reality be?

Tony is 24 years old. He has tattoo sleeves on both of his arms, as well as a name tattooed on his 

neck. Tony would like to be a waiter at a very fancy restaurant. He has first interview today. 

What might a job interviewer think of Tony? What might the reality be? 

Terrence is 18 years old and just graduated high school (where he had a 4.0 average). Terrence 

has an interview today for a summer internship. Terrence is a wheelchair user. 

Do you think there is a chance that the interviewer might not ask Terrence the same interview 

questions he or she would ask of someone who isn’t in a wheelchair? Why or why not? 

Marissa is in 10th grade. She comes from a family of mechanics. Her dad and three brothers are 

mechanics, and her grandfather owns a garage. Marissa has secretly wanted to work on cars but 

has been afraid to tell her family. She now wants to approach her grandfather for a summer job.

Why do you think Marissa has kept her career dream a secret? How might she ask her grandfather for 

a summer job?

Ruthie is 62 years old and is looking for a job. She loves one of the local clothing stores and 

applied online for a job as a sales clerk. She has an interview today and is afraid the store 

manager will be much younger than her. Ruthie considers canceling the interview. 

Why do you think Ruthie is worried about her interview? What would you tell Ruthie? 

Sam is 20 years old, a sophomore in college and is looking for an engineering internship. Sam has 

Asperger syndrome (a form of autism), and while he has an A average in his engineering courses, 

he recognizes the fact that he has trouble interacting socially and is worried about his interviews. 

Why do you think Sam is worried about his interviews? What advice would you give Sam?
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27. Professional Work Attitudes 

JUST THE FACTS: As an employee, your attitude at work contributes to your work environment and how 

you get along with your co-workers and supervisors. A positive attitude can improve morale and 

increase productivity for all. The purpose of this activity is to generate a discussion about workplace 

attitudes (of both supervisors and co-workers) and how these attitudes impact those around us.

Time

30 minutes 

Materials

• Flip chart/markers

• Activity 27 

Directions

Imagine it is your first day on a new job. Discuss what you would do to make a good 

impression on your co-workers and supervisors [make a list for all to see]. Why might it be 

important to make a good impression on your first day? 

Divide the larger group into smaller groups. Each group will work together to offer advice 

on an issue related to Justin, a stock clerk at the grocery store (see Activity 27). As the 

facilitator, read the story aloud, one section at a time. Pause after each section and ask 

each group to confer and share their collective answer/solution to the question at hand. 

Each group should be given the opportunity offer their advice first, followed by any 

additional and new advice from any of the other groups. You may choose to continue the 

discussion around the room

Conclusion

Ask the group to describe Justin’s work attitude. What do you think would be the most 

difficult part of being Justin’s supervisor? How can a supervisor or boss affect your job 

performance? How can co-worker attitudes affect your job performance? 

Journaling Activity

Imagine you are a supervisor on the job. What type of supervisor would you be? How 

would you deal with an employee who had a bad attitude? What are some of the skills you 

would like to develop so, one day, you can be a GREAT supervisor? 

 
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Extension Activity

Using the situation in Activity 27, have participants work in small groups to create a series 

of short skits or role-plays about both co-worker and supervisor attitudes – and how those 

attitudes can affect the job performance of others. 
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Activity 27. Examining Work Attitudes

1. Justin is a stock clerk at the local grocery store. Justin does only what he is told to do, no 

more and no less. 

Question: Does Justin have a good attitude toward work? Why or why not?

2. One day, one of Justin’s co-workers knocked over a product display. Boxes were scattered all 

over the floor. At the time, Justin was working close by. He ignored the scattered boxes and 

left his workstation to tell others what had happened. 

 Question: If you were the co-worker who knocked over the display, what would you have said 

to Justin?

3. Later the same day, Justin was stocking shelves. The item he was stocking belonged in another 

part of the store. A co-worker trying to help Justin told him he was making a mistake. Justin 

insisted he was right and started an argument. 

 Question: Was it right for Justin to argue with his co-worker? What could Justin have done 

differently? 

4. Before Justin went home that night, he overheard a personal conversation between two coworkers and the supervisor. The next morning, Justin told everyone what he had heard. The 

entire grocery store was soon talking about what Justin told them.

 Question: Was Justin correct in discussing what he had overheard? Explain.

5. When Justin’s supervisor found out what had happened, she called Justin into her office for a 

conference. 

 Question: What do you think was said to Justin?

Question: If you were one of Justin’s co-workers, what advice would you give to him?

 Question: If you were Justin’s supervisor, what could you do to help him become a better 

employee? 
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28. Teamwork – An Essential Element of Professionalism

JUST THE FACTS: Part of understanding professionalism is figuring out how each of our individual 

actions impacts the actions and work of others. This activity is designed to give participants a quick 

way to rate themselves and their own professional actions. It also gives them the opportunity to reflect 

on the positive behaviors they demonstrate, and to how these behaviors impact others.

Time

20 minutes 

Materials

• Activity 28 (one for each participant) 

Directions

Using Activity 28, participants will rate themselves on workplace behaviors that are 

typically thought of as “professional” in the workplace. Participants should be encouraged 

to be honest, as this paper can be kept 100% confidential. The purpose of this activity is to 

generate discussion and thought related to the workplace soft skills often sought by 

employers. 

Conclusion

Ask the group to share the skill of which they feel the most proud. Without asking who 

wanted to improve, discuss some of the strategies people could use if they wanted to 

improve a few of these skills (select two or three). Ask the group if there are any 

additional skills missing from this list. What are they?

Journaling Activity

Do you think that the strengths and weaknesses you recognize in yourself are the same as 

those that others recognize in you? Why or why not? How do you think your behavior 

impacts those around you? 
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Extension Activity

Using additional copies of the activity sheet, have participants ask three people they know 

and trust to complete the form (about the participant). The forms can be completed 

anonymously (so to speak). Participants should take some time to determine if how they 

view themselves is similar to or different from the way others view them. Discussion can 

then be generated as to why this may be. Participants should pay particular attention to the 

answers to the three questions asked at the bottom of the activity. How does this 

information impact the young person’s original answers to these questions? 
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Activity 28. Teamwork - An Essential Element of Professionalism

Here are some quick tips to being a good employee...and a good team player. Determine which of your 

skills are “on target” and which might need some improvement by choosing “Always,” “Sometimes,” 

or “Never.” 

1. I get to work on time. If I am going to be late, I call and let my boss know. 

[Always • Sometimes • Never]

2. I rarely miss work. If I am going to miss work, I let my boss know ahead of time (or call if 

I am sick). 

[Always • Sometimes • Never]

3. I work as hard as I can. 

[Always • Sometimes • Never]

4. I pay close attention to my work. 

[Always • Sometimes • Never]

5. I do my work as I am told. If I am unable to do something or have questions, I ask my supervisor 

or co-workers. 

[Always • Sometimes • Never]

6. I am friendly on the job. 

[Always • Sometimes • Never]

7. I try to solve problems that come up. 

[Always • Sometimes • Never]

8. I follow safety and company rules. 

[Always • Sometimes • Never]

9. I use materials and equipment properly

[Always • Sometimes • Never]

. 

10. I behave professionally. 

[Always • Sometimes • Never]
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NOW, ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:

Based on the descriptions above, I am most proud of my ability to: 

 

One area I’d like to improve is: 

 

Some strategies I might use as I work to improve this skill is? 

 
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29. Is it Considered “Professional” to Have Friends

 in the Workplace?

JUST THE FACTS: Working with friends can make work lots of fun. Sometimes, though, it may not 

always be the best situation. The purpose of this activity is to get participants to discuss the benefits 

and potential drawbacks to working on a job alongside friends. 

Time

15 minutes 

Materials

• Activity 29 – one for each person or each group.

• Optional: White board/flip chart and markers. 

Directions

Ask the group to discuss (or list) some of the pros and cons for working (on a job) with 

friends. Divide the larger group into groups of three. Hand each group the “Avoid the 

Clique” scenarios. Discuss/define “clique” if necessary (a small group of people, with 

shared interests or other features in common, who spend time together and do not readily 

allow others to join them). 

Each group should read together and discuss Scenario #1. With the larger group, discuss 

what the lifeguards’ supervisor meant by “paying close attention to their jobs?” If you 

were the supervisor, what specific instructions would you give? 

Next, the small groups should read together and discuss Scenario #2. Each group should 

come up with possible solutions for each of the four questions for consideration – and be 

prepared to discuss with the larger group. 

Conclusion

Come back together as a group to discuss the possible solutions. These may include, but 

need not be limited to: 

1. Too much socializing at work may result in poor production.

2. Co-workers may feel alienated by the clique. They may be suspicious or jealous 

that they’re not included in the group.

3. The three can maintain their friendship outside of work hours. 

4. It’s important to like people at work. It makes the job more enjoyable.
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Use this opportunity to discuss “cliques” in general – and the problems that might arise (in 

different situations) because of them. Think about how cliques may be perceived by 

others. Ask if anyone has ever had the experience of being part of a clique or an outsider 

to a clique. If comfortable, ask each to share a story explaining what it felt like to be in 

either position. 

Journaling Activity

What would be the benefits of working at a job with your best friend? What would be the 

drawbacks? Would you want to work at a job with your best friend? Why or why not? 

Extension Activity

Participants can create a list of tips for: 

1. How to manage friends in the workplace.

2. How to develop friendships on the job.

3. What to do when your workplace friend turns into a “frenemy.” 
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Activity 29. Avoiding the Clique

SCENARIO #1:

LaToya, Rosa, and Day were great friends. All three received their lifeguard certification together and 

were very excited to be working at the same community pool during the summer. The pool’s supervisor 

knew the three girls were all close friends – and that this would be their first paid job. He wanted to be 

sure they recognized how fortunate they were to be able to work alongside their friends, but also 

needed to stress the importance of not letting their close friendship get in the way of doing their jobs. 

If you were the supervisor, what specific instructions would you give to the girls?

SCENARIO #2:

Trent, Ben, and Antonio all started working at a local home improvement store at the same time. They 

were in the same orientation group and liked each other immediately. Trent and Ben work in the 

customer service department and Antonio works in accounting. The three usually go out after work on 

Friday night, text each other during the day, and try to eat lunch together several times a week (when 

they can). Sometimes they even hang out on the weekends. While Trent, Ben, and Antonio are lucky to 

have found such good friends at work, some of their co-workers are not as pleased about their close 

friendship.

Questions for Consideration

1. What is the danger of becoming too friendly with co-workers or socializing with them too much?

2. What objections might other co-workers have to this three-person clique? Why might some of these 

co-workers not be pleased?

3. How can the three maintain their friendship without damaging their relationships with their coworkers?

4. Why is it important to have friends at work?
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30. Self-Reflection: Professional Problem Solving at it's Best

JUST THE FACTS: Problem solving is an important skill in work and life. Though there are many ways to 

solve problems, learning the skill of self-reflection as part of career decision-making can be extremely 

helpful. The purpose of this activity is to have participants see themselves in the future – and then 

reflect on how the decisions they made got them to where they are. 

Time

30-40 minutes

Materials

Directions

Ask the group what the term “self-reflection” means to them (solicit responses). Discuss 

that self-reflection is a process of giving serious thought to our lives and our decisions by 

examining our character, our actions and our motives and/or motivations. Sometimes we 

make decisions and then reflect on our choices, other times we reflect before making 

choices. 

Say something to the effect of: This exercise will get you thinking about your future. You 

will be asked to think about what you want to do with your future and define some life 

goals by working backwards in time. 

Ensure each participant has a piece of paper and the writing instruments of choice. 

I’m going to ask you a series of questions. You will need to think about these questions 

very carefully and then either draw or write your reactions on your paper. Your responses 

do not need to be in any particular order, but will ultimately help you to tell or retell your 

own personal history. 

Ok, here goes:

Imagine you are in your final years of life. You are sitting in a rocking chair reflecting on 

the life you have lived. You are contemplating the answers to the following questions: 

• Did you choose a career (or careers) that you enjoyed?

 − If so, how did that happen?

 − If not, why not?

• Paper and writing instruments of choice for each participant (pen, pencil, colored 

pencils, markers, etc.) - legal sized paper or chart paper may work best
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• What accomplishments did you achieve?

• What accomplishments did you want to achieve but did not?

 − What held you back?

• Which activities did you do that you wanted to?

 − What encouraged you to do them?

• Which activities didn’t you do that you would have liked to?

 − What held you back?

• If you had your life to do over again what would you do differently?

• What would you have kept the same?

• What things did you choose to do in your life that made you happy?

• Could you have done more of them?

 − Why didn’t you?

Thinking through your answers while in this rocking chair will have some tremendous power. 

To look ahead at what you think your life will be like has the possibility to help you take 

more control of your life right now. 

Conclusion

Ask for volunteers to talk about their rocking chair life story. It may be helpful for you to 

have completed a picture or a word collage earlier and share your personal rocking chair 

life story with the group first. 

Discuss with the group how self-reflection activities have the power to help us make the 

personal decisions necessary to plan for our futures.

Journaling Activity

Think about a time you needed to solve a personal problem and you acted first and then 

reflected later. Now think about a time when you needed to solve a problem and you 

reflected first and then acted. Which way turned out the best for you? Why do you think 

this is so? 
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Extension Activity

Take self-reflection one-step further and think about your future career from today’s point 

of view. Read each of the following 10 questions (see Activity 30) and take some time to 

think about your answers. What you answer today may not be the same as what you might 

answer tomorrow or next year – but the important thing is to keep asking yourself questions 

like these, and answering them.

10 Self-Reflection Questions to move you Toward the Career of Your Dreams

1. How do you want your life to be?

2. What are the 10 most important work values to you?

3. What would you do if time, money, and experience were not a concern?

4. What would you do or learn if you knew you couldn’t fail?

5. What are you passionate and energized by?

6. What are your current skills, abilities, and talents?

7. What is stopping you from moving forwards and achieving your goals, including any 

self-limiting beliefs about yourself?

8. What beliefs do you need now to achieve the life of your dreams?

9. What are all of your choices?

10. What will you commit to now to move forwards? 
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(Extension) Activity 30. Self-Reflection Questions to Ask and Answer 

to Move You Toward the Career of Your Dreams

(Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louise_A_Newson) 

QUESTION: HOW DO YOU WANT YOUR LIFE TO BE? 

CONSIDERATIONS: Think about what you would like to experience on a day-to-day basis. If you were 

totally 100% happy with your life what would that look like? What do you want to be doing a year from 

now or five years from now? 

ANSWER: 

 

QUESTION: WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST IMPORTANT WORK VALUES TO YOU? 

CONSIDERATIONS: Some examples are: independence, helping others, challenge, advancement, risk 

taking, change and variety, prestige, stability, making a difference, social status, leadership, making 

decisions, security, artistic creativity, self expression, adventure/excitement, public contact, mental 

stimulation, travel, working alone, etc. 

ANSWER:

QUESTION: WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF TIME, MONEY, AND EXPERIENCE WERE NOT A CONCERN? 

CONSIDERATIONS: After you’ve travelled, bought you and your family a house and car, etc., what 

would you do next if there were no limits? 

ANSWER: 

QUESTION: WHAT WOULD YOU DO OR LEARN IF YOU KNEW YOU COULDN’T FAIL? 

CONSIDERATIONS: Put fear to one side and allow your imagination to work without restrictions. Would 

you start a brand new career or start your own business? 

ANSWER: 

QUESTION: WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE AND ENERGIZED BY? 

CONSIDERATIONS: What do you love doing? What could you talk about for hours? What would other 

people you know say if I asked them? 

ANSWER: 
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QUESTION: WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND TALENTS? 

CONSIDERATIONS: If you struggle to answer this, as many people do, ask three significant people in 

your life what they think are your skills and talents. You may be surprised! 

ANSWER: 

 

QUESTION: WHAT IS STOPPING YOU FROM MOVING FORWARDS AND ACHIEVING YOUR GOALS, 

INCLUDING ANY SELF-LIMITING BELIEFS ABOUT YOURSELF? 

CONSIDERATIONS: You need to identify anything that is holding you back. It may be a physical issue 

(e.g. you don’t have the necessary qualifications), or it may be mental (e.g. you don’t believe you can 

succeed). Whatever it is, identify it and deal with it (e.g. take a course to earn a qualification or 

credential, read a book about self-esteem, or ask a teacher or a counselor to help you). 

ANSWER: 

 

QUESTION: WHAT BELIEFS DO YOU NEED NOW TO ACHIEVE THE LIFE OF YOUR DREAMS? 

CONSIDERATIONS: In order for you to have your perfect career, what would you have to believe abou

yourself to make that a reality (e.g. “I have achieved many great things in my life, and I deserve to 

have the career of my dreams.”) 

ANSWER: 

t 

 

QUESTION: WHAT ARE ALL OF YOUR CHOICES? 

CONSIDERATIONS: Brainstorm all your possible choices. Don’t start to evaluate them at this stage, 

just get them all onto paper. 

ANSWER: 

QUESTION: WHAT WILL YOU COMMIT TO NOW TO MOVE FORWARDS? 

CONSIDERATIONS: Now evaluate all of your options and decide on a path to take. Create an action 

plan of all the steps you’ll need to go through to achieve your goal, and if necessary get support from 

an adult you trust.

ANSWER: 
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A Word About Social Networking

The Internet has significantly changed the way our society connects with one another, does business, 

and socializes. Today’s youth have never known a world without the Internet, which is a piece of information adults must put into context when they think about and compare, generationally, social networking to face-to-face communications. According to the Pew Internet & American Life Project, more 

than 93% of both teens (12-17) and young adults (18-29) in the United States use the Internet regularly, 

and more than 70% use social networking sites. Furthermore, among online teens, 62% use the Internet to get news about current events and politics, 48% use it to make purchases (books, clothing, and 

music), and 31% use it to get health, dieting, or physical fitness information. 

Online social networking presents both opportunities and risks. What follows is a cursory breakdown 

of both, followed by a series of lesson plans specifically targeting online safety.

ADVANTAGES OF SOCIAL MEDIA:

• Social skills. Social networking allows people to keep up with current friends and make new ones. 

When used in the right way, social media can increase self-esteem and help someone feel less 

isolated.

• Independence and self-expression. Creating your own “home page” allows people to express 

themselves and discuss their interests. They can join groups and support fan pages, and find out 

about other people’s interests.

• Digital competence. Technology is evolving faster than ever before. As teens and young adults 

learn to adapt to new technologies (or new applications of existing technologies), they will be 

better equipped to adapt to future technology. 

• Educational development. Young adults in secondary and post-secondary education will often use 

social networking to discuss schoolwork and share discussions about assignments. 

• Research. Young adults can gather information about topics that are hard to discuss with others, 

such as drug use and sexual health.

• Additional advantages for youth with disabilities: Social networking can open up a new world of 

communication, integration, and community participation. Young adults can express themselves, 

including their thoughts and feelings, more easily and without fear of the rejection or stigma they 

may experience in real life. Research also suggests that these young adults may be more willing to 

ask for help online than in face-to-face situations. Furthermore, young adults who experience 

difficulty with social skills can socialize anonymously, and can experiment with different personas 

and practice initiating and maintaining online friendships. They can also respond to others by 

taking advantage of having time to review and edit communications before sending it on. 

Ultimately, this skill may carry over into “real life” and give a sense of new courage to make and 

maintain friendships in everyday life. 
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RISKS OF SOCIAL NETWORKING:

• Sharing one’s personal information with the wrong crowd. Young adults need to be aware that 

information given out online could also put them at risk of victimization. People looking to do 

harm could use posted information to identify them or gain their trust. They can also be deceptive 

by pretending to know a young person. Encourage young people to privatize their online social 

networking accounts (such as Facebook and Twitter).

• Bullying. Harassment may occur online only (cyberbullying), or it may spill over to offline bullying 

committed by a person who has located his victim online. Cyberbullying can cause significant 

emotional harm resulting in depression, anger, school avoidance, violence, and suicide.

• The permanency of online profiles. Once information has been shared on the Internet, it’s out 

there — forever! Retrieving information that others have read and captured is nearly impossible. 

Inappropriate pictures, captions, and comments could come back to haunt youth as they start 

applying to colleges or looking for jobs.

• Disclosure. People tend to be far bolder and less discretionary with information shared online 

versus in person. This means there is a greater risk of giving out information including the 

presence of a disability that, given a second thought, we might not have wanted to disclose. 

• Additional potential risks for youth with disabilities: Social networking may further isolate those 

who may already feel isolated or not included, and can ultimately lead to depression and 

loneliness. Also, young adults with disabilities must make important life decisions regarding 

disclosure of their disability (if, how, when, and to whom). Unintended disclosure is possible by 

posting pictures or becoming fans of disability support groups, for example. While this might not 

be an issue, it makes the “disclosure” discussion even more important. For more information on 

disability disclosure, see The 411 on disability disclosure: A workbook for youth with disabilities 

(available online at: http://www.ncwd-youth.info/411-on-disability-disclosure) and Cyber 

Disclosure for Youth with Disabilities (available online at: http://www.ncwd-youth.info/cyberdisclosure). 

The process of empowering youth to make safe and responsible decisions online can be compared to 

the process by which they may have learned to safely cross the street. First they hold hands with an 

adult, and then they gain a little more independence and might be watched from afar. Ultimately, 

they become capable of making safe and responsible decisions on their own. Educating youth about 

social networking communities must be grounded in the providing of knowledge, skills, and values so 

that eventually they can be expected to independently exercise good judgment. 
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Cyber Resource: CyberSmart!

CyberSmart! is a free curriculum and part of Common Sense Media’s education programs. Common 

Sense will be updating the CyberSmart! lesson plans and adding video, interactive components, and a 

rich complement of parent resources to create an integrated K-12 Digital Literacy and Citizenship 

curriculum.

YOUR ONLINE IMAGE

http://cybersmartcurriculum.org/safetysecurity/lessons/9-12/your_online_image/ 

Students explore the consequences of unintended audiences viewing their social network profiles. 

They consider four key characteristics of social networking sites and how they might affect teens as 

they try out new identities. Then, students collaborate to write a letter to parents demonstrating 

their understanding of issues related to unintended online audiences.

MAKING GOOD DECISIONS

http://cybersmartcurriculum.org/safetysecurity/lessons/9-12/making_good_decisions/ 

Students take a true/false quiz about the risks to teens regarding online sexual victimization by 

adults. They use an analysis of the results as the basis for a classroom discussion of how they can 

harness the power of the Internet while avoiding risky behavior that can lead to involvement in 

criminal sexual activity.

ACCEPTABLE SOCIAL NETWORKING

http://cybersmartcurriculum.org/safetysecurity/lessons/9-12/making_good_decisions/ 

Students explore a scenario in which an angry student creates a false online identity in order to seek 

revenge. They explore ways to resolve the situation and develop a list of tips to help other teens 

avoid cyberbullying situations.

CONNECTED 24/7

http://cybersmartcurriculum.org/cyberbullying/lessons/9-12/connected_247/ 

Students explore how bullying behaviors on social networking sites and cell phones can affect teens 

around the clock. They identify positive actions that bystanders can take to alleviate a particular 

scenario. Then they write a letter to the editor discussing the positives and negatives of social 

networking sites, messaging, and cell phone technologies used by teens.

And From the Office of Disability Employment Policy:

CYBER DISCLOSURE FOR YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES

http://www.ncwd-youth.info/cyber-disclosure 

A supplement to The 411 on Disability Disclosure: A Workbook for Youth with Disabilities, this 

publication focuses on the advances in technology that have changed what youth need to know about 

disability disclosure.
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Additional Resources for Youth With Disabilities 

CAREER PLANNING BEGINS WITH ASSESSMENT: A GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS SERVING YOUTH WITH 

EDUCATIONAL AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGES

http://www.ncwd-youth.info/career-planning-begins-with-assessment

This guide serves as a resource for multiple audiences within the workforce development system. Youth 

service professionals will find information on selecting career-related assessments, determining when 

to refer youth for additional assessment, and additional issues such as accommodations, legal issues, 

and ethical considerations. Administrators and policymakers will find information on developing 

practical and effective policies, collaboration among programs, and interagency assessment systems.

THE 411 ON DISABILITY DISCLOSURE

http://www.ncwd-youth.info/411-on-disability-disclosure 

This workbook is designed for youth and adults working with them. It helps young people make 

informed decisions about whether or not to disclose their disability and understand how that decision 

may impact their education, employment, and social lives. Based on the premise that disclosure is a 

very personal decision, it does not tell a young person what to do; rather, it helps them make informed 

decisions.

THE 411 ON DISABILITY DISCLOSURE: A WORKBOOK FOR FAMILIES, EDUCATORS, YOUTH SERVICE 

PROFESSIONALS, AND ADULT ALLIES WHO CARE ABOUT YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES

http://www.ncwd-youth.info/411-on-disability-disclosure-for-adults

This adult-focused workbook is a companion to The 411 on Disability Disclosure: A Workbook for Youth 

with Disabilities. It was written for adults supporting youth with disabilities, and introduces numerous 

examples of young people struggling with the question of “to disclose” or “not to disclose.”

JAN – THE JOB ACCOMMODATION NETWORK

http://askjan.org 

JAN is the leading source of free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and 

disability employment issues. Working toward practical solutions that benefit both employer and 

employee, JAN helps people with disabilities enhance their employability, and shows employers how to 

capitalize on the value and talent that people with disabilities add to the workplace.

THE NATIONAL COLLABORATIVE ON WORKFORCE AND DISABILITY FOR YOUTH (NCWD/YOUTH)

http://www.ncwd-youth.info/

NCWD/Youth assists state and local workforce development systems to better serve all youth, including 

youth with disabilities and other disconnected youth. Created in 2001, it brings together partners with 

expertise in education, youth development, disability, employment, workforce development, and 

family issues. Funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment 

Policy (ODEP), it is housed at the Institute for Educational Leadership in Washington, D.C. 
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MAKING THE MOVE TO MANAGE YOUR OWN PERSONAL ASSISTANCE SERVICES (PAS): A TOOLKIT FOR 

YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES TRANSITIONING TO ADULTHOOD

http://www.ncwd-youth.info/PAS-Toolkit

This guide assists youth in strengthening some of the most fundamental skills essential for successfully 

managing their own PAS: effective communication, time-management, working with others, and 

establishing professional relationships. Such skills are key to not only enhancing independence, but 

also thriving in the workplace and growing professionally. 

ODEP – THE GUIDEPOSTS FOR SUCCESS

http://www.dol.gov/odep/categories/youth/

Developed by the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), in collaboration with NCWD/Youth, 

the Guideposts for Success reflect what research has identified as key educational and career 

development interventions that can make a positive difference in the lives of all youth, including youth 

with disabilities.

PACER CENTER

http://www.pacer.org/ 

PACER Center is a parent training and information center for families of children and youth with all 

disabilities from birth through 21 years old. Located in Minneapolis, it serves families across the nation, 

as well as those in Minnesota. Parents can find publications, workshops, and other resources to help 

make decisions about education, vocational training, employment, and other services for their children 

with disabilities. PACER designs materials for parents and families, but also educators and other 

professionals who work with students with or without disabilities. 

UNIVERSAL DESIGN FOR LEARNING

http://www.cast.org/udl/index.html 

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a set of principles for curriculum development that give all 

individuals equal opportunities to learn. UDL provides a blueprint for creating instructional goals, 

methods, materials, and assessments that work for everyone – not a single, one-size-fits-all solution 

but rather flexible approaches that can be customized and adjusted for individual needs. Teacherfriendly UDL tools can be found at: http://www.udlcenter.org/implementation/examples 
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

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In Their Own Words

The final version of this publication was a collaborative effort of the Office of Disability Employment 

Policy, Concepts, Inc., and the youth and facilitators of seven different youth programs across the 

country. Careful time and attention was taken to ensure that youth, between the ages of 14 – 21, 

from all different backgrounds had the opportunity to experience and contribute to the soft skills 

pilot activities over a five-week period of time. Changes were made to the original manuscript, based 

on both youth and facilitator feedback. Here is what some program participants and youth 

facilitators had to say:

Youth Participants

Interview in 2 hours, I need to get ready

But I’m so nervous, my hands ain’t steady

Body got shivers, what should I do

Grabbed my notebook and started to skim through

Remember eye contact, firm handshake

Take no calls, put phone on vibrate

Speak clear, big smiles, don’t show no fear

Give the boss good reasons for working here

Don’t forget collared shirt, black slacks and low heels

Turns out I got the job

THANKS SOFT SKILLS

(J’laan H.)

Soft Skills make a difference because they will help you deal with situations in everyday life, such as 

job interviews, getting along with others, and just communication with people. Soft skills also help 

you find yourself...and really make a difference because they help you to think critically. (RaeMisha 

Sierra)

When students are writing or talking in class or at an interview they sound like they are on the streets 

talking to a friend, who would want to hire someone like that? And that’s where I feel soft skills 

should come in for young people. [We] never learn about these things. I feel the younger people are 

when they learn these skills, as they get older it won’t be a problem. (Jessica Alexis)

Be open-minded because if you just go with it (these activities) you can learn a lot about being 

successful in the workplace. (Giselle Padilla)

I can’t think of just one thing that we did because I enjoyed everything. (LaShondra Neely)

It was an experience going beyond my dreams. (Brandon Pursley)
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I was putting things in my text messages that I shouldn’t have and I learned about it during the ODEP

project. It was fun because I didn’t know that people text that way. (Shionte Davis)

I like the hands on, building the spaghetti tower was the best. (Chavario McQuay)

I liked the projects because I learned how to be team leader. (Jasmine Turner)

I learned so many new things. (Raylaysha Daniels)

The journals help you work on a better you. (Youth Participant) 

I like Soft Skills because I got to do activities with my classmates and teacher. (Rachael Washington) 

I liked Soft Skills because it gave me an opportunity to interact and engage with my peers. (Michael 

Francis) 

My favorite activity was the one that talked about failures. It was interesting to learn about how 

Mickey Mouse was created. (Justine Thomas)

How I felt about Soft Skills is GREAT! It teaches people how to get along with each other. My favorite 

activity was when we had to build the tallest structures made out of marshmallows. (Troy Booker)

I liked the Soft Skills program. My favorite activity was acting out the skits. (Tyrone Hunter)

Soft Skills had different activities to help you talk more about how you feel. (Brittany Prue)

Facilitators

These activities were great in getting students to think about how they would react or respond to 

various situations that could arise in the workplace. It also helped them to recognize that a job can 

entail a lot more than just showing up. They began to recognize that teamwork, attitude, 

communication, networking and problem solving and critical thinking are all crucial components or to 

success both in the workplace and outside of the workplace. (Jamie Youngblood, CO)

The ODEP Pilot Program was one of the best projects that we have participated in. The students 

learned so many skills while developing team building and leadership skills through fun filled 

activities. The activities addressed areas that everyone could benefit from while providing new 

exciting ideas. (Mary Coody, FL)
Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success 

141

I was delighted to hear about the curriculum as well as see how much the students were enjoying the 

program. It was evident by their conversations that they were learning a lot about how to apply the 

skills to their everyday lives. (Dr. Dierdre Williams, DC)

I have not enjoyed teaching a program this much in my over 25 years of working with students that 

have an intellectual disability. Soft Skills curriculum is a marvelous teaching tool that is able to reach 

ALL students wherever they may be in their learning process. (Lisa Haynes, DC)

I think that the students really enjoyed the ODEP Pilot Program. The students responded well to the 

group activities and I found it to be very educational and informative. (Jean James, FL)

I found the activities to be very energizing and adaptive for any age group. (Mike Radel, FL)

We finished the workshop with a lighthearted activity called A Super Ball and a Raw Egg. Each student 

had the opportunity to throw a bouncy ball and a raw egg at a giant bull eye drawn on a vinyl table 

cover. After observing the effects on the objects being thrown and the wall covered by the tablecloth, 

we asked the students if they knew what this symbolized in relation to their outlook on life. Are you a 

raw egg or a bouncy ball? we asked them. When you hit a barrier in your plans, do you shatter? Or do 

you bounce back stronger and faster than ever? Our students were still debating the meaning of the 

activity as we cleaned up the eggshells and ended the workshop. An hour and half had never flown by 

so quickly! We knew it was one of the best workshops Gainesville Area HS/HT has had this year! 

(Stephanie Weeks, FL)

At first the students were a little skeptical about the activities and the corresponding paperwork 

[associated with the Pilot], but once I explained that they had the opportunity to give their input for a 

publication that will be distributed across the nation, they were very excited and eager to tell me what 

they thought! They really impressed me with their feedback (about what they liked and did not like). 

We enjoyed the activities so much, that before we knew it, we had gone over our allotted workshop 

time. Gainesville HS/HT is excited to be involved in this special opportunity and we look forward to 

completing the rest of the activities with our students! (Mellissa Merrill, FL)

The Soft Skills [activities] are fabulous. They cover the five areas that are desperately needed in 

today’s workforce. Soft Skills used to be taught at home, however, in today’s world it is our obligation 

to teach our young folk what is need to succeed in life and in work and these Soft Skills fit the bill. 

(Virginia Dever, KY)

The [Success or Failure] lesson provided our students with the opportunity to see firsthand that even 

those who are now viewed as highly successful people were once in a tough space as well. (Facilitator, RI)
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The Interview Role Play allowed students to see what a good interview looked like versus one that 

needed some critiquing. This particular activity was interactive and held the students attention the 

entire time. It also generated conversation that kept the group thinking while having a good time. 

(Facilitator, RI)

As the facilitator of the activities, they were definitely very useful and meaningful because they truly 

educated and informed students in a way that helped them take personal responsibility for their skills 

or lack thereof, instead of an adult telling them what they need to do or know.

From the exploring of their attitudes and how they respond to instruction and authority, to 

communication styles, teamwork, and networking; these activities gave them some real life practical 

experiences that they could learn from, but presented in a way that was fun and educational. I think 

the communication activities were really insightful, because students had to explore their forms of 

communication and what messages it could be sending that are not always intentional.

I also enjoyed the activities on listening and asking questions because this showed them that is was 

okay to ask a question, which they seldom don’t want to because afraid of looking dumb. Through this 

activity it showed them the necessity of using this skill in the workplace and how impactful it could be 

on their success in the job.

The Success or Failure Activities were also very helpful and insightful because students could see that 

the road to success is not an easy climb, and that everyone starts at the bottom and it takes time and 

plenty of failures before you make it, but that’s okay, as long as you don’t quit.

Overall, I think the students really learned a lot and were challenged by exploring and addressing skills 

and styles of communicating that could not be articulated or explained, but now have meaning and 

comprehension that will help them be more successful in the workplace; because keeping a job is just 

as a successful as getting one. (Victoria West, WA)

It was really great to see how the students began the class with one outlook, and at the end of the 

sessions - I could see how their perceptions had changed. Many of them believed that once they 

interviewed for a position and obtained the job that they no longer had to make themselves 

presentable.

A lot of them also didn’t realize that they have been networking or that networking was an important 

component when trying to get ahead. Many of the group activities were also eye openers for the 

students. They all loved the power ball and the raw egg activity. I think that particular session stood 

out to them. They learned that when things happen it’s okay to fall apart, but it is more important to 

get back up and learn and live!!! (Kiana Davis, WA)