Chapter 2 Workplace Skills

Self-Appraisal Questions Why am I looking for a job? What specifically do I hope to gain by having a job? What do I like to do? What am I good at? Which of my skills would I like to use at my job?

Self-Appraisal (cont’d) Identify skills and honestly evaluate yourself. List things learned from school, friends, family, books, hobbies, and other sources. Be prepared to disclose your driving record to work in the auto industry.

References Make a list of three to five people as references. Choose references wisely. Always ask permission to use someone as a reference first. Give copy of your résumé to people on your reference list.

Contacting Potential Employers Usually best to drop off resume and cover letter in person. Be prepared for an on-the-spot interview. Many employers do not want phone calls regarding employment.

Tips for a Successful Interview Take paper and a pen to take notes. Be on time or a little early. Look neat and professional. Shake hands firmly. Listen closely to the interviewer. Avoid “yes” or “no” answers. Do not say anything negative about others.

Common Interview Questions What can you tell me about yourself? Why are you interested in the job? What are your strengths and weaknesses? If we offer you a job, what can you offer us? Do you have any questions about the job?

Common Technician Compensation Hourly wages – many new technicians are paid an hourly rate. Commission – some technicians are paid based on the labor they perform. This is commonly referred to as “flat-rate” pay. Combination – technicians in some shops receive a hourly wage plus a percentage of parts and/or labor.

Employee Responsibilities Regular and on-time attendance Following directions Responsibility Productivity Loyalty

Employer Responsibilities Instruction and supervision A clean, safe place to work Wages Fringe benefits Opportunity and fair treatment

Non-Verbal Communication Non-verbal communication can say a lot about you. Body language, tone, posture, facial expression, eye movement, and gestures can all convey inadvertent meanings. Work on maintaining an open and forward posture.

Professionalism Earn respect by displaying a positive attitude, good behavior, and accepting responsibility. A professional is confident, honest, shows initiative, sets goals, manages time, follows rules, and applies ethics to reasoning.

Interpersonal Relationships Make suggestions to improve success. Display a positive attitude. Respect the opinions of co-workers. Respond to criticism in a professional way. Provide constructive criticism. Resolve conflicts in a professional way.

Customer Relations Without customers there is no business. Always act and dress professionally. Ensure their vehicle is returned clean and undamaged. Talk with customers in a courteous, respectful, and understandable manner.