When working with a-risk teens to network, find and keep a job and to handle money, there are several life skills they need to learn.
1. Networking skills
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Building Relationships: The importance of building strong, respectful relationships with peers, mentors and adults. It is making meaningful connections with people who may be able to help them advance in life.
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Communication skills: Helping these youth develop verbal and non-verbal communications skills such as active listening, asking thoughtful questions and maintaining eye contact.
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On-Line Networking: In today’s world, online presence matters. Setting up a LinkedIn page is one way to get an online presence.
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Elevator Pitch: Being able to quickly explain who you are and what you want to do in the time it would take to ride up in an elevator (under a minute) is a skill that is helpful when you network or are at a job interview. Help them create this elevator pitch.
- Following Up: Stress the importance of following up after meeting someone or an interview, whether it’s through a thank you email or a handwritten note.
2. Job-Readiness Skills
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Resilience and Perseverance: Tell them setbacks and rejections are part of life. How they respond to challenges (whether it’s a bad interview or not getting the job) matters.
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Interview Skills: How to prepare for and perform well in job interviews- this includes answering common questions, dressing appropriately, and understanding what employers are looking for.
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Research Jobs: Using job board like Linkedln, Indeed etc.
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Basic Job Search Skills: How to write a resume, search for job openings, and fill out a job application online or in person.
- Job Etiquette and Professionalism: Discuss things like dressing appropriately, being respectful, and showing up on time.
3. Money
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Budgeting: Teach them how to create a simple budget. Show the difference between needs and wants, and how to allocate money for essentials (e.g. Food, transportation, savings).
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Banking: Explain what savings and checking accounts are and why you need them.
- Credit and Debt: Discuss how credit works, the importance of building good credit, and the dangers of bad debt. Keep it simple.
ARISE Life Skills offer curriculum that can help you teach many of these concepts to the youth you work with.
View the ARISE Networking Jobs and Money Curriculum
View the ARISE: Learning Strategies and Time Management Curriculum