Child Care Today ©2012

Chapter 2: Employability Skills

Chapter Summary

Employers look for specific skills and characteristics in employees. Communication skills include speaking, listening, body language, writing, and reading. Other basic workplace skills include math, thinking, technology, and information skills. Employees who have productive work habits, such as responsibility, commitment, reliability, flexibility, and honesty, show a strong work ethic.

Leadership is the ability to motivate others to accomplish goals. Effective leaders have qualities such as integrity, vision, perseverance, consideration, and being team oriented. Employers look for employees with leadership qualities. Organizations such as Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) and SkillsUSA can help high school students build leadership skills through activities and competitive events.

A child care career begins with a job search. Use networking to locate job openings. The Internet, professional organizations, and employment agencies also can be good resources. Volunteering and internships can help you gain valuable experience. When you apply for a job, fill out the application completely and accurately. Prepare your résumé, cover letter, and portfolio for the interview. Practice appropriate behavior before, during, and after the interview. If you are offered a job, you can choose to accept it, ask for time to consider, or turn down the offer.

An employee’s main duty is to do the very best job possible for his or her employer. Successful employees are also proactive and involved in their work. Your employer sets your wage level and pay period, and may also offer other benefits. An employer’s main responsibilities are to supply employees with what they need to do their jobs, provide safe working conditions, and make sure employees are treated fairly. To advance on the job, show initiative and a desire to learn. When ending employment, keep your job search to yourself and continue to do your work at the same high standard until you leave.