1. Communication at Work – Following Directions Business Information Management I

2. Goals for this Lesson Students will understand the meaning of “hard” and “soft” skills in the workplace Students will identify different “hard” and “soft” skills Students will understand the rewards and consequences of effective business communications 2 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.

3. Hard Skills – Easily Measurable Procedural Steps Administrative Tasks Machine Operation Financial Skills Typing Skills Language Skills Computer Skills 3 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.

4. Soft Skills – “People Skills” Communication – Oral – Written Teamwork – Diversity – Goals Leadership Customer Service Decision-Making 4 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.

5. Following Directions – a “Soft” Skill Types of Directions ▫Employment Policies ▫Training Manuals (How-to) ▫Product User Guides 5 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.

6. Rewards (of following directions) Increased employee morale Increased productivity Increased customer base Increased revenue 6 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.

7. Consequences (of not following directions) Loss of business Employee termination Defective products Possible injury 7 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.