life skills
communication skills
SAY
WHAT?
Your teen may be an expert in sending
texts, Facebook messages and Snapchats
to their friends. But when it comes to
real-world communication (i.e. the
professional world), do they know how
to conduct themselves through a job
interview? Ask for a reference? Make
their own dentist appointment?
Tip:
Use a mirror when making
important calls—smile, it
will come through!
Elizabeth Williams, Community Events
Coordinator for Baptist Health, has witnessed
some common communication blunders
while working with teens as part of Baptist’s
Health Career Exploring program. She offers
some tips teens can apply not only to future
internship and job interviews, but also other
real-life situations such as contacting college
professors, making appointments and even
dealing with a bank or mortgage company.
Communication Do’s and Don’ts:
DO:
• Keep a calendar and add appointments to your schedule
immediately
• Learn to smile (in person, through the phone and even when
writing an email or text)
“I have interviewed students for internships and they
did not look excited or happy to be there. I didn’t want a
song and dance, just a smile. Students need to learn that
nonverbal communication is so important.”
• Reread your emails (edit for correct grammar and spelling)
• Know that some subjects may not be suitable for discussing
over text
• Research the job that you are applying for
“I interviewed an intern that did not know about my
organization. Students definitely need to do their research
on the company or organization that they are interviewing
for.”
• Be a good listener. Think about your response before speaking
(or replying via e-mail or text)
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DON’T:
• Text or call a professional after hours
“I’ve had students text me late at night asking about a
recommendation letter. Be mindful about contacting
professionals after work hours.”
• List a reference without letting them know that you have listed
them
“I received a voicemail from a manager calling because
I was listed as a reference for a young lady. I didn’t know
who