WHEN I
GROW UP
WHEN I
GROW UP
Career Lessons and Activities
for Grades 9-12
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
INTRODUCTION
The When I Grow Up career exploration curricula serve students, teachers, parents and
the community of those in grades Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grades. Each grade level
curriculum is designed to cater to the needs of the students and those presenting the
information at that level.
9–12 (High School) aims to place career decisions and knowledge in action through
APPLICATION. Students will rationalize career and education decisions to map thought
processes and decision points along the way using the When I Grow Up Workbook, which
can be self-directed or used in conjunction with 19 supportive lessons directed by a teacher
or facilitator for larger groups of students.
Labor market information is highly integrated and therefore summarized in a customized
list of high-skill, high-growth occupations and industries for the region. This list comes in
booklet form and includes a list of jobs, called The Hard Facts, which teens often desire
but may not be aware of the market reality.
Designed to serve the high school environment which does not always have personnel or time
resources to delve deep into the career decision process, the workbook allows for students
to consider their options through directed research and questioning to prepare educational
and lifestyle decisions for later discussion and action. As part of this action, students are led
through a series of modules on job search skills which help them apply their own identified
skills and interests to the job search process. This includes consideration of social media
presentation and attire.
Finally, each lesson and activity integrates practice of some or all of nine Employability
Skills recognized by employers as the most needed traits for workplace success. These skills,
often known as “soft skills,” were identified through cross-referencing of multiple nationwide
surveys to employers on the topic of next generation hiring.
WHEN I GROW UP
Career Lessons and Activities for Grades 9-12
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
CONTENTS
Skills Identification and Career Exploration
1 – Human Knot
2 – Discover Your Interests
3 – Evaluating Your Brand
4 – Reality Check
5 – Egg–streme Sports
Job Search Skills
6 – Networking BINGO
7 – Customized Resumes
8 – The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (of Applications)
9 – Professional References
10 – 30 Seconds (Answering Interview Questions 1)
11 – Speed Interviewing (Answering Interview Questions 2)
12 – The Negotiations of Interviewing
13 – Thank You Letters
Employability Skills
14 – Skills that Pay the Bills (Verbal and Non–Verbal Cues)
15 – Actions Speak Louder Than Words (First Impressions)
16 – Workplace Personalities
17 – Workplace Ethics
18 – Social Media Pit Stop (Social Media Presence 1)
19 – Let’s Take a Selfie (Social Media Presence 2)
WHEN I GROW UP
Career Lessons and Activities for Grades 9-12
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Teamwork & Working in Diverse Environments f) Professionalism
b) Interpersonal Communication g) Work Ethic: Integrity, Responsibility, & Accountability
c) Problem Solving & Critical Thinking h) Time Management
d) Enthusiasm & Attitude i) Ability to Accept and Integrate Criticism and Feedback
e) Flexibility & Adaptability
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to identify and demonstrate key employability skills desired by employers.
Resources Needed
1. Flip chart
2. Markers
3. Space for movement
Modification and Extensions
• Set a time limit for untangling the knot.
• Consider assigning a leader — s/he is the only person allowed to speak and/or use any verbal or non-verbal cues.
• Make it a competition between groups to see which can accomplish the task most quickly, most quietly, fewest movements, etc.
Instructional Direction
Students grouped into 6 or more (the larger the group, the more challenging the activity and the longer it takes to complete).
Group members face one another in a circle. Everyone raise one hand and grab the hand of someone that is not on either side of them.
Everyone raise other hand and grab hands with a different person; again, not someone beside them. Everyone should be holding hands
of two different people and that they are not holding hands with someone directly next to them.
Groups must now untangle themselves without unclasping hands. Students should take their time in order to limit injuries and they
should not tug or pull on each other. Spot students as they pass over/under other students. End result should be that the group is back
in a circle, although not all participants may be facing the same direction.
If group members break the chain, they must start over.
a. Variation – penalize any group that breaks their chain by silencing one or more members from verbal communication
each time it happens
b. Variation – if there are multiple groups, any group that breaks their chain is eliminated
Groups then brainstorm on the skills it took to get back in a circle and write them on the flip chart. Highlight employability skills.
You may need to define this type of skill. Employability skills, or “soft” skills, are skills that are difficult to measure consistently with a
number but are essential to workplace success. The employability skills most often requested and needed by employers are all embed-
ded in this activity and are found at the top of this page as well as on p. 11 in the When I Grow Up Workbook. The difference between
hard and soft skills is also found in the Workbook on p. 7. Once students have listed the skills needed to complete the activity and
have isolated the employability skills, discuss why these skills might be important to an employer.
Lesson 1: Human Knot
Category: Skills Identification and Career Exploration
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
b) Interpersonal Communication
c) Enthusiasm & Attitude
d) Flexibility & Adaptability
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to identify and share personal strengths and characteristics, as well as correlate how these qualities might impact
their career paths.
Resources Needed
1. Life’s an Adventure video — www.wrksolutions.com/adventurevid
2. When I Grow Up Workbook or individual activity pages for “What is Your Dream Job?” and “Define Your VISion”
Modification and Extensions
• Provide students the opportunity to “Showcase” their talent:
• Sing, Write a poem, Create a work of art, Build something
• Demonstrate a lesson on a favorite subject
• Create a presentation using PowerPoint, Prezi, etc.
• Students can interview one another, then the interviewer shares about the other person.
Complete the Choices Career Planner Interest Inventory available on the Workforce Solutions website
(www.wrksolutions.com/cp) and have students compare the interests revealed in this inventory with those
on their worksheet. Have students write a summary essay or create a presentation to discuss their new findings.
Instructional Direction
The following is a good introductory activity to the more detailed VISion activities included in the When I Grow Up Workbook (pp. 6–7).
This will help students begin to think about how interests are developed and how they might connect these to career and educational
choices.
To start students may watch and discuss the Life’s an Adventure video (link below). On a blank sheet of paper, students should
record their thoughts into four quadrants labeled (1) Dream Jobs & Careers, (2) Dream Activities, (3) Dream Destinations, and (4)
Nightmares; the nightmares section may include jobs, destinations, and activities that would not interest them. Allow students to share
their dreams and nightmares.
Have students identify a couple of interests that they would like to have in their future job. Ask students which interests they might
want to keep as hobbies. For example, if one of their dreams is to travel to a number of foreign countries, do they want to have this
interest in their work life, personal life, or both? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each option?
Once students have identified a few dreams and nightmares, have students begin working on the “Define Your VISion” (pp. 6–7) and
“What is Your Dream Job?” (p. 2–4) pages in the workbook.
Lesson 2: Discover Your Interests
Category: Skills Identification and Career Exploration
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Teamwork & Working in Diverse Environments f) Professionalism
b) Interpersonal Communication g) Work Ethic: Integrity, Responsibility, & Accountability
c) Problem Solving & Critical Thinking h) Time Management
d) Enthusiasm & Attitude i) Ability to Accept and Integrate Criticism and Feedback
e) Flexibility & Adaptability
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to take a critical look at themselves based on employer identified core competencies. Students will be able to
apply critical thinking and problem solving skills to make changes to their “brand” and enhance how an employer views them.
Resources Needed
1. Brand Evaluation worksheet (Blackline Master 3a)
2. Writing utensils
Modification and Extensions
Students can perform a 360° evaluation by also having peers, parents, teachers, and employers complete the Brand Evaluation
for them. Students can also use a free online performance review tool (such as www.selfstir.com) to rate themselves and receive
tips for improvement.
Instructional Direction
This activity can begin with an icebreaker where students come up with and share one word that they would use to describe
themselves. This can be followed with a discussion about whether the word they used to describe themselves would be what they
would want an employer, college admissions board, or scholarship committee to think of in conjunction with their name. Why or why
not? Students should then be introduced to the concepts of a periodic performance review (PPR) and a 360°evaluation. Examples of
each can be found online. However, in short, each is a means for evaluating and recording your performance at work by your supervisor
and/or team and may include a self-assessment where you rate your own work performance.
Students should complete the Brand Evaluation worksheet. Some or many of these concepts may be new to students. It is therefore
advisable to work through each statement line by line and provide clarity and more detailed explanation to students who may not
understand some of the concepts or terminology. Encourage students to be honest in their scoring as a false, deflated, or inflated
evaluation can be perceived negatively by an employer.
Option 1 – Students should create an action plan for how to improve any areas where they rated themselves under a “2.”
Action plans should include specific steps that will be taken and a timeline for when the steps will be completed.
Option 2 – Based on their ratings on the Brand Evaluation worksheet, students should choose the one area where they feel
they are weakest, and the one they feel is strongest. Students should be partnered up; greatest weakness should be matched
with someone else’s greatest strength. Each student should end up with two different partners — one that is weak in their area
of strength, and one that is strong in their area of weakness. Students will then work to mentor one another to improve the
weaknesses. Mentoring plan should action steps, deadlines, and a short activity that can be shared with the class.
Lesson 3: Evaluating Your Brand
Category: Skills Identification and Career Exploration
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Rate competency in each behavior using the following five level scale:
Please note that the rating “fully meets” does not signify an average performance but a consistently strong one. Therefore, this should be the most frequent rating.
Outstanding (4)
Exceeds Standards (3)
Fully Meets Standards (2)
Below Standards (1)
Unsatisfactory (0)
= consistently and effectively demonstrates the behavior; is a model for others.
= skilled in demonstrating the behavior beyond what is expected.
= fully capable — behavior corresponds with what is expected.
= demonstrates minor deficiencies but is coachable in the behavior.
= does not demonstrate behavior and is not responding to coaching.
1. Cross-Border Thinking:
2. Commitment to Excel:
3. Building and Managing Partnerships:
4. Taking Direction and Responsibility:
TOTAL SCORE_____
TOTAL SCORE_____
TOTAL SCORE_____
TOTAL SCORE_____
GRAND TOTAL_____
A. Awareness: thinks and acts beyond boundaries, seeks out the approaches of others Rating _______
B. Perspective: thinks “outside of the box”, beyond own area of responsibility Rating _______
C. Problem Solving: makes decisions based on facts, evaluates risks and benefits Rating _______
D. Continuous Improvement: questions how things are done; creates new methods Rating _______
A. Punctuality: arrives for work daily at least 10 minutes before scheduled time Rating _______
B. Business Acumen: works “smarter” using technology and computer programs Rating _______
C. Drive/Persistence: committed to achieving the best possible result despite setbacks Rating _______
D. Goal Oriented: monitors own progress to achieve and exceed established goals Rating _______
E. Work under pressure: handles multiple tasks simultaneously with composure Rating _______
F. Quality: Checks own work for accuracy and completeness Rating _______
A. Sharing Information: willingly shares knowledge, best practices, and opinions Rating _______
B. Accepting Feedback: seeks, reflects on, and uses suggested improvements Rating _______
C. Offering Feedback: gives constructive suggestions that aren’t personal or general Rating _______
D. Teamwork: considers different viewpoints and ideas to work effectively with others Rating _______
E. Diversity: nurtures open interactions with members of different cultures Rating _______
F. Customer Care: creates and reinforces trust; pro-actively seeks information Rating _______
A. Flexibility & Adaptability: appropriately changes approach based on situation Rating _______
B. Enthusiasm & Attitude: gives 100% with a smile Rating _______
C. Impact: stands up for own point of view; acts with integrity Rating _______
D. Influence: uses a range of arguments to reinforce a point or win support for an idea Rating _______
E. Responsibility: admits mistakes; doesn’t blame others or pass on problems/decisions Rating _______
F. Planning and Organization: prioritizes work efficiently and avoids time wasting Rating _______
Blackline Master 3a
Name _________________________________________
Period ________________
Date ________________
BRAND EVALUATION WORKSHEET
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
b) Flexibility & Adaptability
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will calculate their cost of living, determine a high-skill, high-growth job that would meet their cost of living, and investigate
their determined occupation.
Resources Needed
IDEAL: One computer for each student with access to Internet, Reality Check worksheet (Blackline Master 4a), writing utensils
LIMITED: Reality Check Worksheet and Results Grid
EXTENSION: “Focus On Profiles” from Workforce Solutions Web site, Focus On Profile worksheet
Modification and Extensions
Students research one or more of the high-skill, high-growth jobs that match their lifestyle choices and complete the Focus On
Profile worksheet. As part of the research process, encourage students to visit www.wrksolutions.com as well as www.lmci.state.tx.us.
Students create presentations describing their chosen lifestyle, salary requirements, and occupation of choice that will help them to
live that lifestyle. Students should include information on:
a. how they chose the profession they researched
b. what mattered most in choosing their career
c. how influential were salary and expenses in considering their options
d. what educational steps should they take next (include specific schools/programs)
e. where might they look for a job (include specific companies and industries)
Instructional Direction
This lesson can be completed in a number of different ways depending on technological resources available. When at least one
computer is available, you can use the website: texasrealitycheck.com. All learning environments, with or without technology, may use
the paper-based version of the activity supplemented here with Blackline Master 4a.
Complete the exercise considering the appropriate direction for:
A. One computer
a. One person (teacher or student) operates the program depending upon time limitation. Students can call out their
selections as the person running the program makes the chosen selections on the website.
b. Each student completes a Reality Check worksheet reflecting their individual choice. This should not match what
is being done collectively as a class (unless their answers are identical) as each student’s complete worksheet will
yield an individual result about their lifestyle choices.
B. Multiple computers
a. Each student completes the online activity and records their answers on the Reality Check worksheet reflecting
their choice.
b. Have students write their expected annual salary on their worksheet.
C. No computers
a. Each student completes a Reality Check worksheet reflecting their choices.
b. Determine the total number of points for their choices.
Reference the Reality Check Results Grid to view high-skill, high-growth jobs in the Gulf Coast area that would allow students to live
their chosen lifestyle.
Lesson 4: Reality Check
Category: Skills Identification and Career Exploration
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Name _________________________________________
Period ________________
Date ________________
REALITY CHECK WORKSHEET
Housing
(choose 1)
Living at home
None
Efficiency apartment
One-bedroom apartment
Two-bedroom apartment
House
Utilities
(may choose more than 1)
Phone
Internet
Mobile phone
Cable
Electricity
Water & gas
Food
(choose 1)
Eat at home
Home and fast food
Home and fine dining
Restaurants mostly
Transportation
(choose 1)
Walking
None
Public bus
Used auto
Basic auto
Average auto
Luxury auto
Clothing
(may choose more than 1, but
only 1 option from choices 3–6)
Accessories
Shoes
$50–75/month
$76–125/month
$126–250/month
$250+/month
Health Care
(choose 1)
No insurance
Basic insurance (I)
Premium insurance (II)
No insurance means no paycheck
deduction but you will pay full
price for each medical visit or service.
Basic insurance may be less from your
paycheck, but you will pay more per visit
than premium insurance.
0
0
4
5
6
6
1
2
2
2
3
4
3
4
4
5
0
0
1
3
5
6
8
1
1
2
2
3
4
1
2
4
Directions:
For each box above you are going to choose one or more options for lifestyle expenses you might choose to have when you have
your first full-time job after high school or college.
If the box says “Choose 1,then you would only choose one option. For example: for housing, choose the line that matches the
type of housing you would like to have. If you want to rent a one-bedroom apartment, you would circle 5 next to this choice.
For boxes where you can choose more than one option, feel free to choose as many as you think you need or want. For
example, for entertainment, if you plan to go out with friends in town and also take short vacations, you should circle the
corresponding number next to both of these options for a total of five.
Total the number of circled points and write the answer in the final space. Using the Reality Check Results Grid, find the column
that matches your number of points and write down the salary range for that column in the box above. Next, choose one or
more occupations you might consider to achieve this salary.
Reality Check may be found at www.texasrealitycheck.com or as an application for Apple products (Android coming soon).
1.
2.
3.
4.
page 1 of 2
Blackline Master 4a
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
3 5
Stay home
Go out on the town
at least once a week
Spend money on concert
tickets, short out-of-town trips,
and other items that cost more
than a night on the town
Longer vacations and premium
adventures that might require
hotel and travel expenses
Personal
(may choose more than 1)
Basics (toiletries, etc.)
Gym/sports recreation
Hair and skin services
Extras (makeup, cologne)
Luxuries (designer brands)
Entertainment
(may choose more than 1)
Miscellaneous
(may choose more than 1)
M i s c . ( s m a l l p u r c h a s e s )
Pet care
Vacation spending
(aside from the cost of
b o o k i n g h o t e l s a n d t r av e l )
Gadgets (electronics)
Home furnishings
(decorations, sheets,
tables, etc.)
1
2
2
3
4
1
2
3
1
2
3
4
Savings per Check
(choose 1)
2%
5%
7%
10%
Student Loan
(choose 1)
Certificate
Associates
Bachelor's
Master's
Professional
Total Points
1
2
2
3
1
1
2
4
5
Salary Range
Possible occupations
for my chosen lifestyle
page 2 of 2
Name _________________________________________
Period ________________
Date ________________
Blackline Master 4a
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
REALITY CHECK RESULTS GRID
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Based on your total from the Reality Check Worksheet, review the occupations which would allow you to live that lifestyle.
Total points from Reality Check Worksheet
Machinist
29 or less 30–39 40–49 50–59 60–69 70–79 80–89
90 or more
$30–40k $41–50k $51–60k $61–79k $71–80k $81–90k $91–100k
$101k+
Boilermaker
Accountant and
Auditor
Cost Estimator
Financial Analyst
Computer Systems
Analyst
Software Developer,
Applications
Pharmacist
Medical Records
Technician
Electrician
Educational,
Vocational and School
Counselor
Electrical and
Electronic Engineering
Technician
Computer Systems
Administrator
Environmental
Engineer
Dentist
Mobile Heavy
Equipment Mechanic
Geological
Technologist
Electrical Power-line
Installer and Repairer
Medical and
Clinical Laboratory
Technologist
Registered Nurse (RN) Physical Therapist Doctor
Rig Operator
HVAC Mechanic
and Installer
Market Research
Analyst
Chemical Plant
Operator
Occupational
Therapist
Software Developer,
System Software
Geoscientist
Welder, Cutter,
Solderer & Brazer
Industrial Machinery
Mechanic
Paralegal Speech Therapist Petroleum EngineerNursing Instructor
Licensed Practical &
Licensed Vocational
Nurse (LPN & LVN)
Radiologic
Technologist
Petroleum Pump System
Operator, Refi nery
Operator, & Gauger
Mining /Geological
Engineer
Plumber, Pipefi tter,
Steamfi tter
Respiratory Therapist
Bilingual Teacher
Read the “Focus On” profi le to get more information on occupations that may interest you.
Profi les can be found at http://www.wrksolutions.com/jobs/focuson.html.
Blackline Master C3b
Blackline Master 4a
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Teamwork & Working in Diverse Environments
b) Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
c) Flexibility & Adaptability
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to identify occupations needed to form a successful company, apply engineering and mathematical principals to
build a structure, use effective communication tools to create company marketing materials, and introduce business acumen to make
decisions about the organizational structure and operation of a company.
Resources Needed
Newspaper, tape, straws, eggs, paper towels, trash can, markers, materials used for “marketing the company,”
High-Skill, High-Growth list, cleaning materials
Modification and Extensions
Students research other extreme sports and prepare presentations on other products they might develop to
support these sports and how adding these product lines would impact their original business structure.
Instructional Direction
Students will break into groups of 4–6 in order to complete this project. Depending on the desired final product output, this project
may have components spread out over multiple class periods or can be delivered in as short as 60 minutes.
Scenario – Eddie the egg and dozens of his friends are passionate about base jumping, but they don’t like to be constrained
by wearing a parachute…which tends to make landing a problem. Several friends have scrambled their brains in the process. Your
company is going to capitalize on this new sport by building a structure to place on the floor where Eddie and his friends can land
safely. You will build a prototype competing with several other companies for Eddie’s business. In order to win you need to not only
build a working structure but have good advertising, promotional materials, and a solid business structure.
Construction – each group must use 6 inches of tape, 4 straws, and 2 pieces of newspaper to build a structure that can sit on the
ground without assistance.
Organization Structure – because this is a start-up company, funding is limited and thus, staff must be limited; each group must
determine what five critical positions they will hire for and defend why they chose those positions. They then need to develop a mission
statement to guide their new business.
Marketing – each group must come up with a name for the company, a name for their product, an advertising slogan, and either a
marketing poster or commercial. The marketing strategy must align with the mission statement of the company.
Sales – each group must complete a SWOT analysis; based upon this analysis as well as time spent in construction, materials used,
salaries of employees, competitor prices, and product demand, they must determine how much they will charge for their structure and
who will be in their target audience.
Competition – each group will present on their organizational structure, mission statement, SWOT analysis results, and then share
their poster or commercial that includes a slogan and the price they have determined to sell their product at. After each business has
gotten the opportunity to pitch their company, the prototype structures will be tested. Structures should be placed on the ground in
the designated area, one member from each team, should bring their customer and stand beside their structure. When instructed,
each customer should be dropped from waist level into the structure. Each “survivor” will then be dropped from slightly higher.
This process will continue until only one “survivor” remains.
Judging – the winner will be determined based not only on the egg surviving the drops, but also on how well the group structures
their company and presents their information. As time allows, teachers are encouraged to create and explain a scoring rubric defining
how each component will be evaluated and weighted.
Lesson 5: Egg-streme Sports
Category: Skills Identification and Career Exploration
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Teamwork & Working in Diverse Environments
b) Interpersonal Communication
c) Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
d) Enthusiasm & Attitude
e) Flexibility & Adaptability
f) Time Management
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to understand the importance of being able to find common ground and build from it to make connections with
others in order to achieve career success.
Resources Needed
1. Networking BINGO handout (Blackline Master 6a)
2. Writing utensils
Modification and Extensions
Give participants a set amount of time to explore their social media sites and record the names of people they find that match the
BINGO grid topics.
Instructional Direction
Hand out Networking BINGO worksheet (Blackline Master 6a)
Students complete each square by writing their response to the prompt; allow about two minutes for this to be completed.
Students then network, talk to people to discover and share mutual interests, and gather signatures from people with whom they find
things in common.
Based on group size and time allotted, inform students how many minutes they have to network. The first student to complete all
12 spaces on grid wins. Most (if any) will not complete the grid.
i. Variations with signatures: Allow each student one signature per square, even if multiple students
share the same characteristic. Allow participants to get only one signature from another
participant, even if they have multiple things in common.
ii. Variations with structure: Students will line up in two rows facing one another. One person will act
as an “anchor.” Set a timer and have students rotate to the next student each time it dings until
students have interacted with all classmates.
Debrief activity discussing things such as:
who got the most signatures
what was the easiest match to find
what was the most difficult match to find
were there missed networking opportunities
were all of the BINGO items work-related
how could these topics have an impact on a job search
review questions at the bottom of the worksheet regarding other implications, including social media and
online networking/ presence and consequences
Lesson 6: Networking BINGO
Category: Job Search Skills
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
NETWORKING BINGO WORKSHEET
INDIVIDUALLY
1. Respond to each prompt (as it pertains to your own life and experience) by writing your answer on the “Me” line in each box.
2. You have ______ minutes to complete this portion of the exercise.
IN A GROUP
3. Stand up, walk around, and talk to people. This is called “networking.” Identify individuals that have the same response for
each box. When you find someone that matches your response, write their name in the box. You may not have the same
person’s name more than ONE time in the grid.
4. You have ______ minutes to network and complete your grid. Yell “BINGO!” when all blanks are filled in.
SHOE SIZE
Me:
_____________________
Name:
_____________________
INTENDED COLLEGE MAJOR
Me:
_____________________
Name:
_____________________
FAVORITE ANIMAL
Me:
_____________________
Name:
_____________________
STRONGEST SKILL
Me:
_____________________
Name:
_____________________
YOUR IDEAL CAREER
Me:
_____________________
Name:
_____________________
BIGGEST FEAR
Me:
_____________________
Name:
_____________________
HOMETOWN
Me:
_____________________
Name:
_____________________
FAVORITE STORE
Me:
_____________________
Name:
_____________________
FAVORITE COLOR
Me:
_____________________
Name:
_____________________
INDUSTRY IN WHICH YOU
WOULD LIKE TO WORK
Me:
_____________________
Name:
_____________________
FAVORITE HOBBY
Me:
_____________________
Name:
_____________________
COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY
YOU WANT TO ATTEND
Me:
_____________________
Name:
_____________________
1. How could people who share your interests help you make good educational and career choices?
2. Who would be the most beneficial connection on your grid? Why?
3. How might a “fun” connection like “favorite hobby” or “animal” help in your career development?
4. Can social media, like Instagram or Snapchat, help us network? If so, how? Can it hurt our networking opportunities?
Blackline Master 6a
Name _________________________________________
Period ________________
Date ________________
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Interpersonal Communication
b) Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
c) Professionalism
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to identify qualities of a good resume and understand the importance of a customized resume. Students will also
be able to make logical conclusions about the implications of having poorly written or “one size fits all” resume.
Resources Needed
1. Sample job posting
2. Sample resumes (good and bad) - Blackline Masters 7a and 7b
3. Paper for recording answers
4. Writing utensils
Reference material — Job Search Tips for Teens as found on Workforce Solutions’ website
Modification and Extensions
a part-time minimum wage position with no past, paid work experience.
a college scholarship.
an internship.
a part-time minimum wage position with no past, paid work experience.
a college scholarship.
an internship.
Instructional Direction
This activity can be completed individually, in small groups, or as a large group project.
Using the sample resumes for this activity (Blackline Masters 7a and 7b), students will evaluate versus the job description,
identify key components of an effective resume, and compare and contrast resume samples.
You may have students use When I Grow Up Workbook pages 8-9 on building a resume as a reference before or throughout this activity.
Students should first examine the job posting and discuss the requirements.
Students should then review the sample resumes, make a list of any mistakes, choose who to call for an interview and share findings
with their group or class.
Point out any mistakes not spotted:
Barbie – email address, objective, space in easy going, spelling of sweet, including elementary and middle school,
title of volunteer, no description of work experience
Amanda – space at beginning of bullet point for typed reports, capitalize Summers, make sure dates are a consistent
pattern (either the word “to” or a dash)
Lesson 7: Customized Resumes
Category: Job Search Skills
Barbie Taylor
8375 Cherry Street
Houston, TX 77089
(936) 727 – 1421
My objective is to find work
SKILLS
Excellent computer skills
• Fun-loving
Easy- going
Super sweat
EDUCATION
George Washington High School – Spring, Texas
M. B. Miller Middle School – Spring, TX
Roy Rogers Elementary School – Spring, TX
VOLUNTEER
Trinity Health Center, Spring, TX
Clerk
Summers 2012 to present
First Church, Spring, Texas
Volunteer
Summers 2010 to present
Smith Household, Spring, TX
Baby Sitter
2008 to 2010
Blackline Master 7a
Amanda Taylor
8375 Cherry Street
Houston, TX 77089
(936) 727-1421
Veterinary Receptionist 77479, Job Posting ID 685081
SKILLS
Able to provide support: handle daily clinical procedures, care for animals and assist veterinarians and veterinary
technicians in their daily tasks
Willing to clean the public areas of the office and to close the office
Computer Skills: Microsoft Word, Excel and Power Point
Bilingual in English and Spanish: read, write, and speak Spanish fluently
Punctual and reliable; flexible and adaptable; able to work in teams
EDUCATION
George Washington High School – Spring, TX currently in the 12th grade
Expected date of graduation: Spring 2014
VOLUNTEER / COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
TRINITY HEALTH CENTER, Spring, TX summers 2012 to present
Front Desk Clerk
Took phone messages for 4 departments
Typed reports, flyers, and other documents using Microsoft Word and Publisher
Assisted with fundraising events
FIRST CHURCH, Spring, TX summers 2010 to present
Volunteer – Soup Kitchen
Prepared food at proper temperatures and correct portions
Served 150 to 200 people each event
Cleaned dining and kitchen areas to health code standards
Smith Household, Spring, TX 2008 – 2010
Childcare Worker
Cared for four children ages 1 to 7
Assisted with homework, subjects including English, Math, and Science
Encouraged creative play amongst children
Administered appropriate discipline when necessary
Blackline Master 7b
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
b) Professionalism
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to identify the qualities of a good application. Students will also be able to make logical conclusions about the
implications of having a poorly completed application.
Resources Needed
1. Sample applications (Blackline Masters 8a and 8b)
2. Paper for recording answers
3. Writing utensils
4. When I Grow Up Workbook – see p. 9 for tips to share with students on completing quality employment applications
5. Fillable Master Application – found online at www.wrksolutions.com/masterapp
Modification and Extensions
• Practice completing their own Master Application, which can be printed and saved for later use: www.wrksolutions.com/masterapp
• Rewrite the bad applications to make them better.
Instructional Direction
This activity can be completed individually, in small groups, or as a large group project.
Inform students that today they are going to review applications for an entry level position to determine who should be interviewed.
Using the sample applications (Blackline Masters 8a and 8b; also available online at wrksolutions.com/whenigrowup), students should
examine the applications, make a list of any mistakes, and choose who to call for an interview.
Students share mistakes found and person(s) chosen to interview.
Variation - Each student or representative for each group shares mistakes found, other groups / individuals cross that mistake
off their list, person or group with the most unique mistakes “wins”.
Point out any mistakes not mentioned:
Tonya Jones – didn’t date the application, drew flowers along edges, wrote in all capital letters, dotted I’s with hearts, put IDK for
social, didn’t include area code on phone numbers, drew dashes instead of putting N/A, circled answers with hearts, put ASAP for start
date, put ANY for salary desired, unprofessional reasons for leaving, used uncle as a reference; positive highlight – mistake had one
line through it and her initials beside it
Gary Allen – didn’t date the application, VERY messy handwriting, put first and last names in wrong locations, didn’t fill in all blanks
or answer all questions and didn’t use N/A to indicate they had been read, scribbled out mistakes, only put last four of social, put
Anything for position desired, put NOW for start date, asked for $15/hour, stated he was in high school for twelve years, spelled
bilingual wrong, didn’t include contact information for employers or references, unprofessional reasons for leaving, didn’t sign or date
the application
Lesson 8: The Good, The Bad and the Ugly (of Applications)
Category: Job Search Skills
Blackline Master 8a.1
Blackline Master 8a.2
Blackline Master 8b.1
Blackline Master 8b.2
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Interpersonal Communication
b) Professionalism
c) Work Ethic: Integrity, Responsibility, & Accountability
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will understand how to effectively choose references and be able to construct a reference page for use in employment
applications or as requested by employers upon conditional offer of employment.
Resources Needed
1. Paper
2. Writing utensils
Instructional Direction
This activity can be modified in a number of different ways based on teacher preference. Students can work alone, in small groups, or
as part of a large group to complete these activities.
Students should discuss Yelp and similar online review sites then share methods that they use to let others know about a product or
service that they like. Students should then choose at least one of the following categories: music, food, sports, fashion, or technology.
Students should write one positive referral for a product or service that falls into each of their chosen categories. As part of the referral,
students should describe the product or service, how they are familiar with it, how long they have used it, and what is so great about it.
Students should then choose a product or service for the same category/-ies chosen about which to write a negative referral. Allow time
for students to share.
This activity should be used to start a discussion about who students should and should not use as references and why. Explain that
online review sites are like professional references because they are both used by third parties to evaluate our perception of a product,
service, or (in the case of employment) a potential candidate for a job.
Be sure to share the following:
Students should have between three and five professional references.
References should never be family members.
References may include former or current employers, teachers, coaches, and mentors.
All references should be asked permission before they are used, then informed after they are used.
Neither a list of references nor should the line “References Available Upon Request” be included in a resume.
Explain that each reference should include the first and last name, mailing address, phone number, and e-mail address. It is also a
good idea to know where that person works and what their title is. Finally, be sure to include a brief description of how you know the
person and how long you have known them. Students should complete the discussion by making a list of people that they might ask
to be a reference for them. A sample reference is included here:
John Smith – Senior Marketing Manager, Accento Corporation
1222 Lead Line Drive, Suite 440B
Houston, TX 77002
(832) 222-2222 (office)
Relationship: worked for Mr. Smith as an intern and part-time employee for 1 ½ years in the Sales Department
Lesson 9: Professional References
Category: Job Search Skills
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Interpersonal Communication
b) Enthusiasm & Attitude
c) Professionalism
d) Time Management
e) Ability to Accept and Integrate Criticism and Feedback
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will understand the importance of being succinct and be able to share a marketing profile that highlights their strengths
to an employer in a professional manner.
Resources Needed
1. Timer – Google “online stopwatch” to find a stopwatch you can project on a large screen, if possible
2. Writing utensils
3. “Interviewing and The Power of 30” Worksheet (p. 10) in the When I Grow Up Workbook
Modification and Extensions
Students should research, and invite a panel of employers / professionals to come in and provide constructive feedback to
each student as they deliver their 30-second commercial.
Students should record their 30-second commercial and share it electronically with at least 3 professionals to receive
constructive feedback.
Instructional Direction
Briefly discuss how long students believe the average person’s attention span to be. Explain that the average attention span is only
about 30 seconds. Students will estimate how long they think 30 seconds lasts. Students will close their eyes and once they believe
the 30 seconds has passed they will raise their hands, but will keep their eyes closed. The instructor should start a timer and keep
track of approximately when hands are raised. When 30 seconds have passed, students should be told to open their eyes. Debrief the
results of the experiment.
Students should be introduced to the idea of sharing their skills with an employer within the 30-second time frame. Share an example
of a well-written commercial. Students should then complete the 30-second commercial in the When I Grow Up Workbook (p. 10).
Students should stand up and share their 30-second commercial with the class while being timed. This is especially effective when a
visible 30-second timer is running behind them. Students should offer encouraging feedback as well as suggestions for improvement
as each student finishes their commercial.
i) Option 1 – Students gradually work into sharing the entire 30-second commercial. First students stand at their seats
and read the first two lines. Students read their entire commercial standing by their seat. Students should go to
the front of the room and read their entire commercial. Eventually, each student should stand at the front of the
room and share their commercial from memory.
ii) Option 2 – Students could be cut off at the 30-second mark whether or not they are done. Feedback should center
around the impression made and skills offered during that time frame – could you tell what that student wanted to
do and why?
Lesson 10: 30 Seconds
Category: Job Search Skills
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Interpersonal Communication
b) Enthusiasm & Attitude
c) Flexibility & Adaptability
d) Professionalism
e) Ability to Accept and Integrate Criticism and Feedback
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to formulate proper responses to common interview questions.
Resources Needed
1. Timer
2. Speed Interviewing worksheet (Blackline Master 11a)
3. Writing utensils
Reference material — Job Search Tips for Teens as found on Workforce Solutions website and pp. 10–11 in the
When I Grow Up Workbook.
Modification and Extensions
• Choose students to act out a mock interview in front of the class. Class then provides feedback.
Groups of students use technology to record positive and negative examples of mock interviews.
Allow class access to videos and have students write a paper on lessons learned from viewing the various examples.
Instructional Direction
Students should review methods for answering some common interview questions in the When I Grow Up Workbook (pp. 10–11).
Also, you may have students review the most common interview questions, found at www.wrksolutions.com/interview.
Break students into groups of three. Explain that they are going to participate in a brief mock interview to help them practice
answering some of the most commonly asked interview questions. Have them treat it as much like a real interview as possible.
Assign roles to team members: Observer watches the interaction, rates the person being interviewed, and notes their observations
on the Speed Interviewing worksheet; Interviewer asks the questions; Interviewee answers the questions.
i) Variation for smaller sized groups: break participants into teams of two where the Interviewer simultaneously plays
the role of the observer.
Set timer for three minutes and start the interview. Walk amongst the groups and listen to responses throughout the interview session.
When three minutes have passed, stop the interview process and give groups one minute for the observer to offer feedback to Inter-
viewee. Repeat this process until everyone in the group has had a chance to play each of the assigned roles.
Discuss lessons learned, your observations, and share individual observations that could help entire group.
Lesson 11: Speed Interviewing
Category: Job Search Skills
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Tell me about yourself.
Notes:
How would your teachers describe you?
Notes:
What are your strengths?
Notes:
What are your weaknesses?
Notes:
Why should I hire you?
Notes:
Do you have any questions?
Notes:
Rate the candidate’s body language.
Notes:
Rate your overall impression of the candidate.
Notes:
1 I I I 5
1 I I I 5
1 I I I 5
1 I I I 5
1 I I I 5
1 I I I 5
1 I I I 5
1 I I I 5
poor
poor
poor
poor
poor
poor
poor
poor
outstanding
outstanding
outstanding
outstanding
outstanding
outstanding
outstanding
outstanding
SPEED INTERVIEWING WORKSHEET
Blackline Master 11a
Name _________________________________________
Period ________________
Date ________________
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Interpersonal Communication
b) Enthusiasm & Attitude
c) Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
d) Flexibility & Adaptability
e) Ability to Accept and Integrate Criticism and Feedback
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to critically evaluate a situation and apply labor market information in order to determine when and how to share
information to achieve desired results.
Resources Needed
1. Negotiation Scenario instructions and worksheets (Blackline Master 12a and 12b)
2. Writing utensils
3. PowerPoint, if the instructor would like to provide more detailed instruction on the legalese
(especially applicable for CTE instruction in the legal field; but, also valuable for framing a rather complex lesson)
Modification and Extensions
• Have students create their own profile that they believe will get them hired in this scenario.
Assign groups to create their own mock scenario and profiles based on an industry and profession in the Workforce Solutions
High-Skill, High-Growth guide.
Instructional Direction
This activity is an extension on the employability skills related to interviewing and networking and is based on the case studies in
the Program on Negotiation at Harvard Law School. Students work together in small groups to role play an interviewing scenario. One
student must play the employer and at least two students play potential candidates. Ideally, the activity is designed for groups of five
students. When less than five students are available for a group, the instructor should take note of which candidate profile(s) has/have
been excluded as this will affect the possible hiring outcomes.
Choose to have this completed as a panel session with all candidates present at once or as individual interviews in rotation with
employer. In either case, students are allowed to work freely without coaching but within specific time parameters. All students should
be given at least ten minutes to read their profiles, plan, and make notes. After the individual planning period, the negotiation activity
itself should not last more than 15–20 minutes.
Detailed instructions for this activity are included as Blackline Master 12a, which also includes the teacher copy of the individual role
play profiles and possible negotiation outcomes.
Blackline Master 12b has the individual student role play profiles and note taking template where they can record their thoughts
on their position, interests, and BATNA (concepts which are explained in the detailed instructions and included in the PowerPoint
available online at www.wrksolutions.com/negotiationslides).
Lesson 12: The Negotiations of Interviewing
Category: Job Search Skills
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
This activity is an extension on the employability skills related to interviewing and networking. Students are expected to work together
in small groups to role play an interviewing scenario. One student must play the employer and at least two students must play potential
candidates. Ideally, the activity is designed for groups of five students. When there are less than five students available for a group, the
instructor should take note of which candidate profile(s) has/have been excluded as this will affect the possible hiring outcomes.
You can either choose to have this completed as a panel session with all candidates present at once or as individual interviews in
rotation with the employer. In either case, it is recommended that students are allowed to work freely without coaching but within
specific time parameters. All students should be given ten minutes to read their profiles, plan, and make notes. After the individual
planning period, the negotiation activity itself should not last more than 15–20 minutes.
Prior to beginning the activity, the instructor may choose to cover the following concepts:
1. Position – An individual’s worth in a specific context. What qualities do you hold that make you or your investment
valuable? What qualities do you hold that make you or your investment risky? For the item of negotiation, is the
supply greater than the demand or vice versa? How does the supply-demand dynamic affect a negotiation? (answer:
it can greatly influence who holds more power initially)
Example: Who has a better position in a rock band? The lead singer or the bass guitarist? What is the importance
of each to the band? Who is more easily replaced? Who influences the image of the band more? If either left the
band in an instant, would the band survive?
2. Interests – What are your priorities in a negotiation? What have you got to win or lose? What are the “must have”s,
the “it would be nice to have”s, and the “it doesn’t matter to me”s. Organizing your interests helps in planning for
the bargaining stage of a negotiation.
3. BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement) – Best option when an ideal outcome cannot be reached. If the
other party refuses to continue negotiation or if you reach a standstill, what is your best 2nd option? Having a
backup plan gives you perspective when trying to get the best deal possible. Your counterpart may also have an
ideal outcome and a BATNA…or they may not. It is up to you to discover positions and interests to determine your
power in the negotiation and BATNA.
Students should be reminded that this is a scenario to help their employability by working on skills such as effective communication,
prioritization of tasks & goals, following directions, planning, and skills evaluation. Each of the student scenarios is included below:
Scenario #1: Pipeline Welder
Employer:
You are hiring a welder and can offer up to $24/hr for someone with at least one year of experience. You
may offer less. One year of experience is preferred but not required.
Your company benefits include full medical and dental, a retirement plan, a company vehicle for work, and
15 vacation days a year.
You must hire someone with at least a 2 year welding certificate that has some experience in pipeline
welding. No exceptions.
Your company has had trouble hiring people for evening and overnight shifts. The last three hires have left
because they either get offered better hours or cannot balance the schedule with their family obligations.
If you hire someone for $16/hr or less, you CAN offer a SECOND person a job for $16/hr or less, but the
2nd hire must have at least a one-year certificate. You also receive a $5000 bonus for hiring two people
for less than the price of one.
page 1 of 3
NEGOTIATION SCENARIO INSTRUCTIONS
Blackline Master 12a
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Candidate #1
You are an experienced pipeline welder of five years and have a one-year certificate from Lone Star College.
You are looking to make no less than $18/hr
You are married with four children, ages 4, 7, 14, and 23 – good employer benefits are important to you.
Your spouse works as a night nurse’s aide and so an evening shift is least desirable. You are looking for
new work because your last company has asked you to work nights and it is difficult on your home life.
You were fired from your first job after college for yelling at a co-worker. You have since not had any
discipline or other write-ups at any of your jobs.
Candidate #2
You are fresh out of college with a two-year certificate in pipeline welding. You have done an internship at
PipeCo Inc. for four months and had good ratings from your mentor.
You are a single parent of two children ages 9 and 11. Good employer benefits are important to you.
Your family lives with your parents who take care of your children when you are working. You prefer not to
work nights but can accommodate any schedule.
Your previous work experience is as a pizza delivery driver, a retail sales clerk for a shoe store, and a night
janitor for the school district.
You do not know how much a welder with your experience should make and would be happy with anything
over $10/hr.
Candidate #3
You do not have a degree or certificate and learned your welding skills from your uncle. You feel you are
fairly talented and can do some pipeline welds. You have worked in your uncle’s shop for the past two
years and have had zero customer complaints.
You do not have children but have a serious girlfriend/boyfriend and s/he got you this interview because
s/he works for the company in their business office.
You would like to make at least $12/hr. Benefits are not important to you but would be nice since they are
required for all people and you would rather not pay out of pocket for a plan.
You prefer to work nights or overnights but do not want to work on weekends.
Candidate #4
You have a two-year degree from Houston Community College in Pipeline Welding. You have two years of
experience as a Pipeline Welding Tech for Shoreline Company and have just been promoted with a raise to
Tech II making $19/hr. You also get time and a half pay when you work nights and weekends, which you
do not mind.
You are looking for new work because you know the job market needs people like you. Because of this, you
will settle for no less than $23/hr.
You have been offered a position with Sparx Inc. as a Tech II for $22/hr.
You have a spouse and a newborn daughter named Elizabeth. You would like to work closer to home and
this company is right around the corner from your house. Your current job is a 30 mile drive round-trip and
requires frequent travel. It is putting many miles on your vehicle which is starting to need more
maintenance and repair work.
You have great benefits at your current company with 18 vacation days and full medical and dental.
page 2 of 3
Blackline Master 12a
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
POSSIBLE OUTCOMES:
The individual profiles contain parameters that should assist the students in prioritizing in planning. It is inevitable that students
will miss details and an “impossible” outcome will be selected. This is an opportunity to allow for review of the profile details to see
why this outcome is not possible. Allowing time for the discussion questions that follow are a great way to have students discover the
importance of proper research, questioning, and, of course, negotiation skills.
First, Candidate #3 should never be hired. This candidate does not have the formal education required and could be a risky hire.
Schools will teach to a standard and employers often learn the expected outcomes of schools that produce quality students and future
workers. Someone that is self-taught might have great skills but could bolster this experience by holding an industry-recognized
credential.
Viable Option 1:
Candidate #4 is hired. S/he is the only candidate that meets the preference of at least one year of experience and the requirement of
a two-year certificate. The pay rate should be $23-24/hr if Candidate #4 adhered to the guidelines of his profile. If Candidate #4 was
hired at a lesser rate of pay, kudos to the employer for good negotiation skills! Also, if Candidate #4 agreed to $16/hr or less,
Viable Option 2:
Candidate #2 is hired. S/he can be the only hire OR if Candidate #2 agreed to a rate of pay $16/hr or less, Candidate #1 could also
be hired. Candidate #2 has the required two-year certificate but has less than the desired one year of experience. Still, this is only
a preference so Candidate #2 is eligible for hire. Also, Candidate #2 has no idea that $10/hr is a low rate of pay for this position.
This can be a point of discussion at the end of the activity by either having the employer read their own profile or by having students
“compare notes” on each other’s profiles.
Candidate #1 can only be hired if Candidate #2 is also hired. If Candidate #2 and #1 are hired, they must both make $16/hr or less.
If not, the employer spent too much money on less experienced employees and has just cost the company money. NO BONUS!
Follow-up Discussion Questions
Before discussion begins, have each of the new hires stand with their new employers and explain what agreement they derived. How
much pay will they receive? When will they work? What do they know about their benefits? What else may have been part of the
agreement?
1. For the employers, what did you consider most important when looking for a new hire?
2. Same question for new hires.
3. If Candidate #3 was hired, how was this possible since s/he did not meet any of the parameters needed for
a new hire?
4. Did any employers or candidates talk about anything other than skill-related information? Families?
Past work experience? Other circumstance? If so, did this affect your decision either negatively or
positively? If so, how and why?
5. What does this make you think of the employment process? Would this scenario be different if the labor
pool had more qualified candidates? What if the job requirements were reduced? Can we think of an
example where a job has fewer qualifications and many available candidates? How might this affect wages
and benefits?
page 3 of 3
Blackline Master 12a
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Scenario #1: Pipeline Welder
Employer:
You are hiring a welder and can offer up to $24/hr for someone with at least one
year of experience. You may offer less. One year of experience is preferred but
not required.
Your company benefits include full medical and dental, a retirement plan, a company
vehicle for work, and 15 vacation days a year.
You must hire someone with at least a 2 year welding certificate that has some
experience in pipeline welding. No exceptions.
Your company has had trouble hiring people for evening and overnight shifts. The last
three hires have left because they either get offered better hours or cannot balance the
schedule with their family obligations.
If you hire someone for $16/hr or less, you CAN offer a SECOND person a job for $16/hr
or less, but the 2nd hire must have at least a one-year certificate. You also
receive a $5000 bonus for hiring two people for less than the price of one.
Position (what is your value? What do you have to offer? Or what might others have that you don’t?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Interests (what are your priorities and in what order do they matter?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Ideal Outcome (what would you like to get and what does it look like?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
BATNA (if you can’t get everything you want, what is a good backup?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
page 1 of 5
Blackline Master 12b
NEGOTIATION SCENARIO WORKSHEET
Name _________________________________________
Period ________________
Date ________________
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Scenario #1: Pipeline Welder
Candidate #1
You are an experienced pipeline welder of five years and have a one-year certificate from
Lone Star College. You are looking to make no less than $18/hr
You are married with four children, ages 4, 7, 14, and 23 – good employer benefits are
important to you.
Your spouse works as a night nurse’s aide and so an evening shift is least desirable. You
are looking for new work because your last company has asked you to work nights and it
is difficult on your home life.
You were fired from your first job after college for yelling at a co-worker. You have since
not had any discipline or other write-ups at any of your jobs.
Position (what is your value? What do you have to offer? Or what might others have that you don’t?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Interests (what are your priorities and in what order do they matter?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Ideal Outcome (what would you like to get and what does it look like?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
BATNA (if you can’t get everything you want, what is a good backup?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
page 2 of 5
Blackline Master 12b
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Scenario #1: Pipeline Welder
Candidate #2
You are fresh out of college with a two-year certificate in pipeline welding. You have
done an internship at PipeCo Inc. for four months and had good ratings from your
mentor.
You are a single parent of two children ages 9 and 11. Good employer benefits are
important to you.
Your family lives with your parents who take care of your children when you are working.
You prefer not to work nights but can accommodate any schedule.
Your previous work experience is as a pizza delivery driver, a retail sales clerk for a shoe
store, and a night janitor for the school district.
You do not know how much a welder with your experience should make and would be
happy with anything over $10/hr.
Position (what is your value? What do you have to offer? Or what might others have that you don’t?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Interests (what are your priorities and in what order do they matter?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Ideal Outcome (what would you like to get and what does it look like?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
BATNA (if you can’t get everything you want, what is a good backup?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
page 3 of 5
Blackline Master 12b
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Scenario #1: Pipeline Welder
Candidate #3
You do not have a degree or certificate and learned your welding skills from your uncle.
You feel you are fairly talented and can do some pipeline welds. You have worked in your
uncle’s shop for the past two years and have had zero customer complaints.
You do not have children but have a serious girlfriend/boyfriend and s/he got you this
interview because s/he works for the company in their business office.
You would like to make at least $12/hr. Benefits are not important to you but would be
nice since they are required for all people and you would rather not pay out of pocket for
a plan.
You prefer to work nights or overnights but do not want to work on weekends.
Position (what is your value? What do you have to offer? Or what might others have that you don’t?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Interests (what are your priorities and in what order do they matter?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Ideal Outcome (what would you like to get and what does it look like?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
BATNA (if you can’t get everything you want, what is a good backup?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
page 4 of 5
Blackline Master 12b
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Scenario #1: Pipeline Welder
Candidate #4
You have a two-year degree from Houston Community College in Pipeline Welding. You
have two years of experience as a Pipeline Welding Tech for Shoreline Company and have
just been promoted with a raise to Tech II making $19/hr. You also get time and a half
pay when you work nights and weekends, which you do not mind.
You are looking for new work because you know the job market needs people like you.
Because of this, you will settle for no less than $23/hr.
You have been offered a position with Sparx Inc. as a Tech II for $22/hr.
You have a spouse and a newborn daughter named Elizabeth. You would like to work
closer to home and this company is right around the corner from your house. Your
current job is a 30 mile drive round-trip and requires frequent travel. It is putting many
miles on your vehicle which is starting to need more maintenance and repair work.
You have great benefits at your current company with 18 vacation days and full medical
and dental.
Position (what is your value? What do you have to offer? Or what might others have that you don’t?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Interests (what are your priorities and in what order do they matter?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Ideal Outcome (what would you like to get and what does it look like?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
BATNA (if you can’t get everything you want, what is a good backup?):
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
page 5 of 5
Blackline Master 12b
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Interpersonal Communication
b) Enthusiasm & Attitude
c) Professionalism
d) Work Ethic: Integrity, Responsibility, & Accountability
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to understand the importance of taking the time to send a written thank you note in today’s business
environment.
Resources Needed
1. Blank thank you cards
2. Writing utensils
Reference material — Job Search Tips for Teens as found on Workforce Solutions website
Modification and Extensions
Students can write more than one thank you note. Students can also draft (handwritten or typed)
a thank you that is longer than a note to be used in a letter or e-mail.
Instructional Direction
Students discuss the etiquette of thank you notes:
a) to whom they should be sent – any professional that has been of help to student
b) when they should be sent – within 24 hours of assistance received
c) how they should be sent – typed letter, e-mail, or handwritten note
d) what they can say – brief reminder of the assistance received, thank professional for the help, phone number or
e-mail address of student for future follow-up
e) rules of thumb – do not use abbreviations, slang, or text language
Students should choose a professional, who has been helpful to them, then handwrite and send a thank you note to that person.
Making an “event” out of sending these thank you notes (for example, having the entire senior class write and send a thank you
note to someone of their choice prior to graduation) would make this practice more meaningful.
Lesson 13: Saying Thanks...Through Notes and Letters
Category: Job Search Skills
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Interpersonal Communication
b) Enthusiasm & Attitude
c) Professionalism
d) Work Ethic: Integrity, Responsibility, & Accountability
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to recognize that people receive information in different ways and that two-way conversation, which allows for
clarification may be necessary in order for successful communication to take place. Students will be able to distinguish between
appropriate and inappropriate verbal and non-verbal communication behaviors with different groups.
Resources Needed
1. Scrap sheets of paper
2. Writing utensils
Modification and Extensions
Tear-agami
After discussing two-way communication, have students complete the Tear-agami instructions, but allow them to ask clarifying
questions along the way. Repeat again, allowing students to keep their eyes open and ask clarifying questions.
Have students instruct the teacher on how to construct a sandwich. Have all the necessary supplies and construct the sandwich
per their directions being VERY precise to follow their words. If they say “get a piece of bread out of the bag”, you may want to rip
open the package dramatically and pull out a piece of bread from the center of the loaf. This will achieve the same intent as the
Tear-agami activity…and might be more entertaining.
Flipping the Switch
• Students could create and act out their own communication scenario not listed in the activity.
Instructional Direction
Below are two quick lessons on verbal and non-verbal cues. The lessons can be used as warm up activities that can lead into more
thorough work on presentation of self, following directions, or other employability skills.
One Way Communication: Tear-agami
Students should each take a sheet of paper, close their eyes, listen carefully, and follow the verbal instructions given by the facilitator
(who also performs the actions concurrently): “Fold your sheet of paper in half, tear off the upper right hand corner, fold the paper in
half again, tear off the upper left hand corner, fold it in half one more time, and tear off the lower right-hand corner. Now open your
eyes and unfold your paper.” Students should discuss whether or not everyone’s end product looks the same; if not, why not and what
could have been done to improve the results.
Flipping the Switch
Students should break into groups and identify the verbal and non-verbal communication they would use with their friends, their
parents, and an employer in each of the following situations: saying hello, saying goodbye, asking for help, e-mailing, texting, and
making a phone call. Groups should share and discuss their findings with each other then in front of the classroom, role play/act out
how they would handle each of the communication scenarios.
As time allows, students can demonstrate the differences in communicating the same message with different audiences. Students
should demonstrate at least two scenarios, for example, of saying hello to two different audiences and then elaborate on which verbal
and non-verbal cues were different between the two scenarios.
Ask students why they chose to implement these differences. Do some cues seem more appropriate in some scenarios than others?
Why? What happens if we use the wrong cues for the wrong audience(s)?
Lesson 14: Skills that Pay the Bills: Verbal and Non-Verbal Cues
Category: Employability Skills
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Interpersonal Communication
b) Enthusiasm & Attitude
c) Professionalism
d) Time Management
e) Ability to Accept and Integrate Criticism and Feedback
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to understand the impact non-verbal communication and appearance can have on employers
Resources Needed
1. Computer with Internet access
2. Projector
3. Timer
4. Scrap paper
5. Writing utensils
Reference material – Job Search Tips for Teens as found on Workforce Solutions website
Modification and Extensions
Have students match up slogans with the popular products or company they belong to. Discuss the impact a “brand” can have on
our purchasing decisions. Have students create a tag line or slogan to represent themselves. Would they use the same tag line with
friends? family? in a professional setting? Discuss the impact their “brand” might have on an employer’s decision about hiring them.
Assign or have students choose a behavior pattern and mode of dress to act out in front of the room. Based on the display, discuss
whether or not the student is interview ready and if so, for what type of position.
Students use Internet to find video examples of persons displaying appropriate behavior and dress to interview for assigned
occupations.
Instructional Direction
Students discuss how long they think it takes to form a first impression. Share that the average first impression takes approximately
ten seconds. Play seconds 15–33 of Interviewing video (www.wrksolutions.com/intervid). Students then have 10 seconds to jot down
their first impression of the person in the clip and give feedback.
Ask participants if they have ever heard the expression that “actions speak louder than words?” Stand in front of the group, with eyes
straight ahead, face blank, and voice monotone. Ask group if they would pay attention to you if you conducted the entire class in this
manner. Stress the point that when you are interacting with others, it is not just what you say, but also how you say it that impacts how
the message is received.
Discuss each of the components of non-verbal communication
a. Facial Expression – stress importance of displaying a positive attitude; get all to smile.
b. Tone of Voice – share examples of being soft-spoken, yelling, fast, slow, accent, etc.
c. Body Language – stress importance of good posture, eye contact, and handshakes; get all to practice each.
d. Appearance – stress importance of being neat, clean, and appropriately dressed; discuss how participants should
dress for various types of interviews. Emphasize importance of covering tattoos and piercings.
Play seconds 2:05 through 2:35 of Interviewing video (www.wrksolutions.com/intervid2). Students then have 10 seconds to jot down
their first impression of the person in the clip and give feedback.
Discuss lessons learned.
Lesson 15: Actions Speak Louder Than Words
Category: Employability Skills
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Teamwork & Working in Diverse Environments
b) Interpersonal Communication
c) Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
d) Enthusiasm & Attitude
e) Flexibility & Adaptability
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to employ multiple strategies for dealing with different personalities and attitudes in the workplace.
Resources Needed
1. Decks of playing cards or some other similar item to be used for building a house
2. Personality cards (Blackline Master 16a)
Modification and Extensions
• Students can form a group choosing which personalities to include and repeat the project to see if they are successful.
Students can do a similar group activity without assigned personalities and evaluate each person’s personality within the group.
This may also be done by having students complete the assigned group task while being video recorded and having the class evaluate
personality types after viewing the group videos. Any variation would be a good lead in activity to discussing performance evaluations,
found in lesson, Evaluating Your Brand.
Instructional Direction
Students will draw or be assigned one of the following personalities: Know-it-all, Perfectionist, Grumpy Gills, Cheerleader, Super Shy,
Leader, Daydreamer, Procrastinator, Egomaniac, or Yes Man
Students will then break into small groups where they will have five minutes to build a house out of a deck of cards. While building the
house, students will role play the personality from the card they drew.
At the end of the five minute time frame, have groups debrief whether or not they were successful. Students should try to guess what
personality each person in the group was playing during the exercise. Then discuss the impact each personality had on the success or
failure of the group as a whole.
As a group, brainstorm strategies for being able to work successfully with each of these personalities.
page 1 of 3
Lesson 16: Workplace Personalities
Category: Employability Skills
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Blackline Master 16a
WORKPLACE PERSONALITY CARDS
Know-it-All
You have all the answers for every problem and know
exactly how the task needs to be completed. You are not
receptive to the input or feedback of others and might
even be annoyed that they have any thoughts
to contribute.
Leader
Any task is your task. You enjoy directing others and
naturally fall into the role of project manager. You
delegate tasks, check on others work, and encourage the
team while also making sure that you constantly progress
toward the finish line. You are challenged when others try
to take hold of your projects and will push back until you
are clearly on top alone.
Perfectionist
You are not satisfied with any part of a task or project
that is not exactly as you imagine it should be.
You demand perfection every step of the way and
are unbending when others want to cut corners or
might have ideas that challenge your vision.
It’s done right all the way or not at all.
Daydreamer
You lack focus and direction. You enjoy thinking of ideas
but then don’t have any follow through. If given a group
task you might have a phenomenal idea to share
but then don’t really contribute to getting it done.
Those clouds outside are really pretty.
What are you having for dinner? I need to text my best
friend about our plans wait, what were we doing?
Grumpy Gills
You are just really annoyed that you have do anything
and bring your bad mood to the task at hand. People
annoy you. Working annoys you. Talking annoys you.
Your grumpiness is just who you are and while you might
contribute to the task, you aren’t happy about it. (Being
grumpy doesn’t necessarily mean you are loud or pushy.)
Procrastinator
You know the task you are assigned are important but
you really don’t want to work on them now. Later is better
than never. If you can push your work off to another time
or person, this is always preferred. Why do we have to do
this now? If we let some time pass we might work better
under pressure, right?
Cheerleader
Go team! You want the task to be completed and you
will make sure you contribute the best attitude and
emotional support possible. You enjoy encouraging others
and making sure that everyone contributes and feels
AMAZING about it. Your primary job is to encourage
others toward success.
Egomaniac
Wow, aren’t you wonderful? Any group you work in is proud
to have you! While you may have ideas to contribute to a
task, you first need to let the group know how great you
are. As the task goes on you want to make sure everyone
remembers how wonderful you are so you may need to
remind themeven if it means this takes time away
from actually achieving the task.
Super Shy
You may or may enjoy working on projects with others,
but no one would ever know because you don’t really
say much and stay to yourself. You are soft-spoken
and not likely to share ideas unless you receive lots of
encouragement to do so. Generally, you watch the task
happen and communicate through others if needed.
Yes Man
You are a supporter. If someone gives you a task, you
agree to it because you are here to support your leaders
and team members without question. You identify leaders
and say yes to any task you are assigned and support
them even when you may not agree with their direction.
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Interpersonal Communication
b) Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
c) Flexibility & Adaptability
d) Work Ethic: Integrity, Responsibility, & Accountability
Lesson 17: Doing the Right Thing or Doing What is Right –
Ethics in the Workplace
Category: Employability Skills
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to analyze and propose solutions for ethical dilemmas in the workplace.
Resources Needed
1. Workplace Ethics Scenarios (Blackline Master 17a)
Modification and Extensions
Students could ask an adult to describe a real life ethical dilemma they faced. Have students come up with possible solutions to the
dilemma; then, have them go back to the adult and ask how they resolved it in real life. Student should then compare and contrast
the real life solution with their proposed solutions. Students could be shown clips from the show “What Would You Do” and then
describe the most ethical way to handle the situation.
Instructional Direction
Students should have a discussion about what workplace ethics are and how they govern the conduct of both employers and
employees. As a group brainstorm and create one list of ethics that apply to employers (ex. to provide a safe work environment) and
another that apply to employees (ex. to treat company resources with care). Once the discussion is concluded students should break
into small groups and each group should be assigned one of the ethical scenarios to problem solve.
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Scenario #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.
Scenario #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.
Scenario #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.
Scenario #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.
Blackline Master 17a
WORKPLACE ETHICS SCENARIOS
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Interpersonal Communication
b) Professionalism
c) Work Ethic
d) Ability to Accept and Integrate Criticism and Feedback
Lesson 18: Social Media Pit Stop
Category: Employability Skills
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to understand the impact that social media can have on their public perception and on a job search in today’s
business world.
Resources Needed
1. Devices with Internet access
2. Social Media Pit Stop (p. 5 in the When I Grow Up Workbook)
3. Writing utensils
Modification and Extensions
Students choose a professional or famous person that they believe has a good social media presence and one that they believe has a
poor social media presence. Students then complete Social Media Pit Stop for each of these individuals and report their findings.
Instructional Direction
Explain that many employers, scholarship committees, and colleges will “Google” candidates to help make a decision about whether or
not they are a good fit.
Students discuss the number and type of accounts they have and how much time they spend online. Discuss popular social media
accounts and their possible implications, including “inactive” accounts — Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, Vine, Pinterest,
Tumblr, You Tube, etc.
Students then open one of their social media accounts (cell phones normally work best) that has a news feed, and browse news feed
for a specified amount of time (30 seconds to 1 minute usually works well). Explain that the reason they are viewing their newsfeed is
that how they are viewed by others is impacted by not only what they post, but also what their “friends” post.
Distribute Social Media Pit Stop worksheet (p. 5 of the When I Grow Up Workbook). Explain the content of each box. You might tell
students that these are items that recruiters and hiring managers from companies of various size and scope see as either negative or
positive when viewed on a potential candidates social media sites. (The content for this activity is based on an actual survey conducted
by a company called Jobvite that does an annual survey about recruiting behavior, specifically addressing the Internet and social
media.) Students should then complete the activity.
Discuss results and brainstorm ways to improve scores.
Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon
request to individuals with disabilities.
Relay Texas Numbers: 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) 1-800-735-2988 (voice) or 711
Employability Skills
a) Interpersonal Communication
b) Enthusiasm & Attitude
c) Professionalism
Lesson 19: Let’s Take a Selfie!
Category: Employability Skills
Learning Outcome(s)
Students will be able to distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate workplace attire. Students will also be able to make logical
conclusions about the implications of having an inappropriate workplace presentation, including what is represented in their own social
media, personal or professional.
Resources Needed
1. Technology for capturing photographic images
Reference material — When I Grow Up Workbook for discussion on attire
Modification and Extensions
This activity can be modified in a number of different ways based on teacher preference. Students can make and/or analyze videos
of different individual presentations online and through various media. The class might analyze one or two pictures each day as a
group warm-up activity. Or, the class can start a physical board on which they can collect images over time that represent appropriate
professional presence.
Instructional Direction
This activity can be completed in a number of different ways based on resources available, depth of instruction, and time allotted. The
general purpose for any variation is to expose students to the implications of their professional presence both online and IRL (“in real
life”).
i) Option 1 – Students choose a favorite celebrity and find “selfies” (pictures the celebrity has taken of his/
herself) that are posted online. Students then make an electronic display board (using any presentation software
such as PowerPoint or Prezi) to collect and show organized images of their celebrity.
They should group these images into Professional or Unprofessional categories and add descriptors and keywords
to detail why each collection demonstrates the assignment to the respective groupings. Displays can be shared
electronically with the class, grouped in a class e-file for review and discussion, or printed and displayed in class.
Teachers can reference When I Grow Up Workbook page 12 on professional attire for information on what is
appropriate presentation and attire in the workplace.
ii) Option 2 – Working in pairs or small groups, students use mobile devices, tablets, or cameras to take their own
selfies. Each student should take at least one picture demonstrating Professional and Unprofessional selfies that
they would be willing to share with the class. They can submit to a secure class file site or, with appropriate
permissions, collect on a teacher-controlled Instagram board (www.instagram.com) for review.
For either variation on the activity, it should be stressed that professional attire can vary based on your position and duties so rationalizing choices would be relevant.
Ultimately, workplace attire should match the culture and expectations of the organization. It is also appropriate to introduce students to the most popular professional
networking site, LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com) to review examples of professional online presentations