Learners' Own Words

An important milestone for many young people is getting their first job. But it’s a big adjustment and often young people are not prepared for the challenges. They may be entering the work environment not quite knowing which behaviors are acceptable. In fact, it’s very common for young people to lose their new job within the first 90 days. Adjusting to managing themselves, meeting expectations, and fitting in to the work culture can all be coached by a caring adult to help reduce the stress and smooth the transition for young people.

Even if you aren’t in the workforce development field, your work with young people can easily include tips and strategies to help them maintain employment. You can help them identify their strengths and weaknesses and give general recommendations to excel in the workplace. You already have trusting relationships with them so they are more likely to share their concerns and respond positively to your support.

Join us to learn how to coach and guide young people around job skills and retaining employment. You’ll consider common challenges and obstacles young people face, and how you can assist and talk them through it. Teaching young people about professional conduct and expected behaviors will help them know what to expect when starting a new job. It can be quite an adjustment! Instead of just hoping they’ll figure it out as they go, you can help set young people up for success in their first jobs. They’ll be able to carry what they learn into future jobs and keep honing their skills.

• Learn about common challenges and obstacles that make it harder for young people to retain employment
• Gain tools that will help young people develop their employability skills
• Learn how to help young people understand professional conduct and behaviors employers value on the job
• Consider strategies for helping young job seekers meet basic performance expectations

Please note: This particular training addresses youth employment from an individual lens, and wasn’t intended to dive into systemic reasons or structural factors about why young people face employment challenges. Watch for a future training from us that explores those broader views!

Each of YIPA’s trainings are designed around a broad framework of eight youth work competencies. The competency focus of this training is: YOUTH DEVELOPMENT.

Strengthen your commitment to implement positive youth development strategies, understand development channels, and support youth through developmental changes.