Chapter 2 Employability Skills Employers look for specific
Chapter 2: Employability Skills • Employers look for specific skills and characteristics in employees. • Finding a job requires careful preparation of application materials and making a good impression at an interview. • Both employees and employers have rights and responsibilities. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 1
Chapter 2: Employability Skills • active listening • body language • work ethic • ethics • foundation • workers’ compensation • responsibility • minimum wage • flexibility • compensatory time • networking • labor union • trade publications • collective bargaining • service learning • discrimination • résumé • sexual harassment • prioritize • probation • empathy Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 2
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Sharpening Your Basic Skills Finding and keeping a job and advancing in your career requires a solid foundation of general skills. foundation A base to be built upon; groundwork. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 3
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Sharpening Your Basic Skills A solid foundation of basic skills can transfer from job to job and is critical in helping you advance in your education and career. • Communication skills • Math skills • Thinking skills • Technology skills • Information skills Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 4
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Communication Skills Speaking Skills • Needed to communicate to individuals, small and large groups, adults, and children. • Verbal communication must be clear, correct, and appropriate for the audience. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 5
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Communication Skills Understanding what someone is saying requires active listening, not merely hearing the person’s voice. active listening The skill of listening in order to understand the meaning of the speaker’s words. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 6
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Communication Skills Listening Skills • Active listeners avoid distractions and focus on what the speaker is saying. • To show that you understand, paraphrase the speaker and ask questions for clarification. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 7
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Communication Skills Body language, whether or not you are aware of it, reveals your feelings and reactions to what you say or hear. body language The way you move your hands and arms, hold your body, and use facial expressions. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 8
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Communication Skills Body Language • Observe and interpret another speaker’s body language to pick up on what the person is not saying aloud. • Pay attention to your own body language to practice effective nonverbal communication skills. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 9
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Communication Skills Writing Skills Job applications, business forms, letters to parents, memos, e-mails, and children’s records all require effective writing skills: • Adjust your message to the audience. • Polish your writing style, which includes word choice, tone, attitude, grammar, and punctuation. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 10
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Communication Skills Reading is an essential skill in any field. Child care professionals need strong reading skills to • read to children. • read care instructions from families. • keep up to date on research findings. • understand work policies. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 11
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Math Skills Working with numbers is a part of almost every job. Child care professionals will use basic math skills to • keep track of work hours, wages, and vacation days. • orders supplies, complete payroll and tax forms, and maintain budgets. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 12
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Thinking Skills • Think creatively and make good decisions based on facts. • Think critically to respond quickly and properly to a variety of situations. • Resolve small problems before they become big problems. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 13
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Technology Skills In today’s workplace, you will use technology to • access, manage, and create information. • operate security systems. • update Web sites. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 14
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Information Skills • You gain information from countless sources each day. • Acquire and use information appropriately. • Learn the difference between reliable and useful information and opinions. • Knowing how to understand interpret information helps you to communicate successfully. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 15
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Work Ethic In addition to skills and education, employers also look for candidates who possess a strong work ethic A personal commitment to work hard and to do one’s very best. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 16
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Work Ethic Responsibility and Commitment • Show up for work on time. • Carry out your job duties consistently. • Accept the consequences of your actions. • Follow all procedures. • Support your coworkers. • Be enthusiastic. • Learn new skills. • Be committed to quality and excellence. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 17
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Work Ethic Employers appreciate employees who demonstrate flexibility and a positive attitude when plans change suddenly. flexibility The ability to adapt willingly to change. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 18
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Work Ethic Reliability and Flexibility • Perform consistently as expected. • Carry out tasks without being asked or reminded. • Willingly adapt to change without complaining. • Flexibility becomes easier as your skills improve. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 19
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Work Ethic Honesty • Be truthful in what you say and do. • Admit and correct errors. • Do not blame others for your mistakes. • Dishonesty may be grounds for termination. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 20
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Leadership Skills • Leadership is the ability to motivate others to accomplish goals. • All effective leaders share key qualities that get the job done and keep the group together. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 21
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Qualities of Effective Leaders • Integrity—honest, trustworthy, dependable, straightforward; use good judgment based on solid values and principles • Vision—open minded; look to the future for opportunities and challenges; use their vision and creativity to motivate others • Perseverance—persistent, focused, and resourceful • Consideration—aware and considerate of others • Team oriented—committed to the team effort; identify and value the backgrounds, viewpoints, skills, and talents of others on the team Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 22
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Qualities of Effective Leaders All members of a team can be leaders: • Support the common goal • Take initiative • Share constructive opinions Employees who display these traits are considered first for higher positions. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 23
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Seeking Employment • Patience is the key to finding your first job in child care. • Stay organized. • Take initiative on job leads. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 24
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employment Resources Networking is the most direct and successful way of finding a job. networking Making use of all your personal and professional contacts to further your career goals. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 25
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employment Resources Networking • Teachers and mentors know your strengths and how you could apply them, and they may provide reference letters. • Friends and classmates may be researching similar jobs and may be willing to share information. • Employers and coworkers may know about internal job opportunities as well as job openings outside your workplace. • Organizations in your school and community can often provide job information. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 26
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employment Resources The Internet • Look for quality job-search and career-building information. • Review job postings online and apply electronically. • Network with people by participating in social network communities. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 27
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employment Resources Trade publications contain helpful articles on all aspects of the child care industry and often list job opportunities. trade publications Magazines and newsletters published by professional organizations for their members. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 28
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employment Resources Professional Organizations Services offered to members may include • job listings. • job placement services. • scholarships. • workshops. • conferences. • networking opportunities. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 29
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employment Resources Employment Agencies Employment agencies and temporary (“temp”) agencies work for employers and seek potential employees for them. These agencies • keep lists of their clients’ job openings and potential applicants. • submit an applicant’s credentials to the employer for consideration for a fee. • offer fast placement for an entry-level position. • can give you a chance to see what the child care field is like without committing to a certain employer. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 30
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employment Resources Take advantage of any service learning opportunities provided by your school. service learning Community service that is part of your schoolwork. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 31
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employment Resources Volunteering and Internships To gain valuable experience working with children, consider • volunteering at a preschool, library, hospital, recreation center, or child care center. • participating in a hands-on internship, which may lead to full-time, paid employment. • taking part in service learning at your school. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 32
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Applying for a Job Applications • Make a good impression. • Read the instructions. • Print neatly and do not leave blank spaces. • Always be truthful. • Assemble key personal information. • Gather information about previous employment. • Collect references. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 33
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Applying for a Job A concise, well-written résumé is one way to convince an employer that you are the best candidate for the job. résumé A summary of your career objectives, work experience, qualifications, education, and training. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 34
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Applying for a Job Preparing Your Résumé A résumé should include your • contact information. • job objective. • relevant education. • work experience skills and abilities. • awards and honors. • professional and community activities. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 35
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Applying for a Job Writing Your Cover Letter A cover letter highlights your best qualities. • Keep it short. • Explain why you are writing. • Introduce yourself. • Sell yourself. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 36
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Applying for a Job Creating Your Portfolio A portfolio is a collection of samples presented to employers to demonstrate your skills and readiness for the job. An early childhood portfolio may include • sample lesson plans. • sample menus. • teacher evaluations of work. • observations of child development. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 37
Chapter 2: Employability Skills The Interview Process Before the Interview • Write down the date, time, place of the interview, and the contact person’s name. • Learn about industry trends. • Research your prospective employer and the job. • Choose appropriate clothing and be well-groomed. • Be prompt and courteous. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 38
Chapter 2: Employability Skills The Interview Process During the Interview • Shake hands. • Make eye contact. • Be poised and relaxed. • Answer questions thoughtfully and completely. • Ask questions. • Close the interview on a positive note. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 39
Chapter 2: Employability Skills The Interview Process After the Interview • Send a thank-you letter, even if you decide you do not want the job or if you are turned down. • Follow up appropriately. • Review the session to evaluate how you could improve your interview skills. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 40
Chapter 2: Employability Skills The Interview Process Responding to a Job Offer Before accepting a job, ask yourself: • Is the offered wage fair? • Will I be able to get along with my manager? • How much time will I spend traveling to and from the job? • Will the job require working extra hours? • Is there opportunity for professional growth? Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 41
Chapter 2: Employability Skills The Interview Process Responding to a Job Offer • Accept the offer. • Ask for time to consider the offer. • Turn down the job offer. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 42
Chapter 2: Employability Skills On the Job The relationship between you and your employer is key to your professional success. Both parties have rights and responsibilities. When you accept a job, you agree to these responsibilities. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 43
Chapter 2: Employability Skills On the Job As a child care worker, it is your responsibility to do the best job possible for the children in your care. responsibility Required task or duty. Child Care Today, 2: Employability Skills 44
Chapter 2: Employability Skills On the Job When you have a full day ahead of you, it is important to prioritize your tasks and assignments. prioritize To put tasks in the order of importance, not in the order of your preference. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 45
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employee Responsibilities • Earn your pay. • Use time responsibly. • Prioritize your duties. • Respect the rules. • Work safely. • Maintain confidentiality. • Use resources (people, information, technology, money) wisely. • Show respect and a positive attitude. • Resolve conflicts effectively. • Work as a team. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 46
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Teamwork Empathy will help you understand the feelings and viewpoints of your coworkers, the children in your care, and their families. empathy The skill of putting yourself in another’s place. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 47
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Teamwork Positive Attitude • Contributes to the team spirit. • Affects your response to others, and their response to you. Respect • Shows appreciation and empathy to team members. • Means you take responsibility for your actions. Resolving Conflict • Uses negotiation and compromise skills. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 48
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Ethics An employee with a strong set of ethics will do his or her best to make fair, honest, and beneficial decisions. ethics Your internal guidelines for distinguishing right from wrong. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 49
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Ethics It is not always easy to know the right thing to do. When faced with a decision involving unclear choices, ask yourself: • Does the choice comply with the law? • Is the choice fair to those involved? • Does the choice harm anyone? • Has the choice been communicated honestly? • Can I live with the choice without guilt? Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 50
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Wages and Benefits When you accept a job, you trade your skills and services for money. You may be paid in the form of • hourly wages—a certain amount per hour. • a salary—a set amount regardless of hours worked. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 51
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Wages and Benefits In addition to your salary or wages, your employer may offer benefits, including • paid vacation and sick days. • health, life, dental, and accident insurance. • disability insurance. • savings and investment plans for retirement. • tuition reimbursement. • onsite child care. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 52
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employer Responsibilities Employee Support Your employer will • provide a clear outline of your responsibilities and expectations. • provide all the equipment or training you need to do your job well. • show you how to do an assigned task with the available resources. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 53
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employer Responsibilities Safe Working Conditions Your employer will • eliminate any recognized health and safety hazards. • inform employees of dangerous conditions or materials. • maintain records of job-related illnesses and injuries. • comply with environmental-protection policies for safely disposing of waste materials. • provide conditions or equipment that help prevent injury. • provide financial workers’ compensation. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 54
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employer Responsibilities If you work for an employer who has fewer than four employees and is not required to offer workers’ compensation, you might consider buying your own disability insurance. workers’ compensation Employers are required by state laws to provide compensation to cover medical expenses and lost wages if you are injured on the job and cannot work. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 55
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employer Responsibilities Fair Labor Practices Employees have the right • to have an equal opportunity to obtain and keep employment. • to be paid a fair wage. • to be considered fairly for promotion. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 56
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employer Responsibilities Some employers pay entry-level workers more than the required minimum wage The lowest hourly amount a worker can earn legally. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 57
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employer Responsibilities Employees who may have to work extra hours during holidays or other peak times may be eligible for compensatory time Wages paid to hourly employees who work overtime (more than 40 hours per week). Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 58
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employer Responsibilities Workers in the United States are guaranteed the right to join a labor union, some of which include child care teachers and aides. labor union An organization of workers in a similar field. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 59
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employer Responsibilities In collective bargaining, leaders of labor unions act as the voice of their members. collective bargaining The process of workers and employers agreeing to working conditions, contracts, and benefits. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 60
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employer Responsibilities Employers are required to protect their employees from discrimination in the workplace. discrimination Unfair treatment based on age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, physical appearance, disability, or other factors. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 61
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employer Responsibilities If you believe you are the victim of sexual harassment, report the incident to your supervisor immediately so the employer can investigate the matter and take action. sexual harassment Any unwelcome verbal or physical behavior of a sexual nature. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 62
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employer Responsibilities Many employers consider a worker’s first 90 days a probation period. probation A period in which an employer observes the employee’s work and behavior in order to assess whether the employee is fit to remain with the company. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 63
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Employer Responsibilities Performance Evaluations During a performance evaluation, your employer may examine things such as your • job knowledge and how you apply that knowledge. • willingness to work cooperatively in a team. • ability to communicate effectively on the job. • attitude and workplace ethic. • Performance evaluations are an opportunity to evaluate your career goals. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 64
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Advancing on the Job Advancement can mean • a promotion. • a new position at the same job level but with more responsibilities at a higher rate of pay. • leaving for a better job elsewhere. • beginning your own business. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 65
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Advancing on the Job Qualities that can help you advance in your career include • showing initiative. • showing a desire to learn. • finding a mentor. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 66
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Terminating Employment • Keep your job search to yourself until you have a new job. • Research, list, and analyze the jobs or careers in which you are interested. • Avoid missing work to attend interviews. • Give sufficient notice that you are terminating your employment. • Leave a good impression—your last few weeks will be remembered. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 67
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Review Key Concepts Describe the basic employability skills that applicants need for positions in early childhood care. • Communication skills (speaking, listening, writing, reading, body language) • Math, thinking, technology, and information skills • Work ethic (responsibility, commitment, reliability, flexibility, honesty) • Leadership skills Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 68
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Review Key Concepts List the qualities of effective leaders. • Integrity • Vision • Perseverance • Consideration • Team oriented Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 69
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Review Key Concepts Outline the steps of the job application and hiring process and the required actions at each step. • Fill out a job application (read the instructions before responding; print neatly; assemble personal information). • Prepare your résumé (career objectives; work experience; qualifications; education and training). Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills • Write your cover letter (keep it brief; explain reason for writing; introduce and sell yourself). • Create your portfolio. • Interview (prepare and plan ahead; be relaxed and positive; follow up appropriately). 70
Chapter 2: Employability Skills Review Key Concepts Summarize the rights and responsibilities of employees and employers. • Employees: Earn your pay; use time responsibly; respect the rules; work safely; use resources wisely; maintain confidentiality; be a team player. • Employers: Provide training, equipment, and a safe workplace; keep accurate records; dispose of waste properly; adhere to fair labor practices. Child Care Today, Chapter 2: Employability Skills 71
End of Chapter 2 Employability Skills
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