Description

In a fast-paced world of emails and text messaging, it’s easy for young people to forget the importance of concise business writing with a courteous presentation. Indeed, many teens may not realize that the ‘laid-back’ communication style that is common at school is far from appropriate in the world of work. This video brings viewers back to basics: how to write a proper resume, what to wear on a job interview, and how to behave appropriately in the workplace. Viewers will enjoy a series of dramatic (and sometimes comical) vignettes that identify what is—and is not—proper workplace behavior. Special emphasis is given to the importance of good speaking and writing skills. Treating bosses and colleagues with due respect is also presented as a crucial part of being a successful employee. Follow-up activities in the Teacher’s Resource Book will help students improve their writing abilities, and offer role-play opportunities to practice proper workplace behaviors.

Includes: 25-minute video, teacher’s resource book, and student handouts with pre/post tests.

Sample Video Clip:

Reviews:

Highly Recommended The scope of this video is to help young people learn effective resume writing and job interview techniques. It covers the marketing of job skills; interview preparation; basic interview questions; correct manner of speech and body language; what to wear, and proper business behavior. The video includes vignettes of job interviews with discussions of the interview process and useful suggestions for improving it. A neat bullet format summarizes each topic. Included is a Teacher’s Resource Book of role-play and writing exercises. Although the background music might be slightly distracting, the video quality is very good, with sharp color, clear sound and down-to-earth presentations.
Making a Good Impression Resumes, Interviews and Appearance stresses good speaking and writing skills as well as respectful behavior in preparation for the exciting world of work. As an excellent learning opportunity for senior high school students about to enter the job market, this video is highly recommended.

– Ernarosa Tominich, MLS, Trocaire College Library, Buffalo NY
Educational Media Reviews Online (EMRO)

This up-to-date production provides useful information about writing resumes, interviewing, and workplace behavior for potential job seekers. Ethnically diverse young adults practice their interviewing skills in a series of dramatized vignettes, and human resources personnel critique the practice interviews and provide feedback. For example, one young woman feels that she is too shy, but the interviewer thinks that she presented herself with sufficient confidence. Bringing friends along on an interview is adamantly discouraged. Job seekers are strongly advised to learn about the company to which they are applying for a position by searching the Internet prior to the interview. Typical interview questions are discussed, such as “What can you offer this company?” The video stresses that while a resume may get you in the door, the interview will get you the job so it is important to sell yourself. The student handouts such as practice letters, resumes, and business-related role-playing situations provide additional support. The follow-up activities integrate general writing and speaking standards for Language Arts. This is an excellent addition to career materials for high school students.

– Alice O’Grady, Wilson High School, Long Beach, CA
Library Journal