Real-world skills for your first job, your next interview, and everything after.
“It’s not what you meant. It’s what they received.”
This Month's Focus: Fix the Message
This month is all about communicating clearly and professionally, so the people you work with know exactly what you mean and what you need. One missed text can cost a shift. One clear message can earn trust.
Point first, then details, then your ask. Replace “soon” with a real time.
Would you say it face-to-face? If you’re upset, wait before you send.
Right channel, good manners, and own your mistakes.
Write every school or work email this week using Point, Details, Ask.
Before every important text or email, ask: Would I say this face-toface? Would I be okay if my boss read it out loud?
Pick one: phone away in class, greet people by name, or send a thankyou message.
When something goes wrong, use the 4 A's at least once: Acknowledge, Accept, Act, Adjust.
Tap a script to open it, then copy it and swap in your own details.
“Hi [Manager], this is [Your Name] from the [time] shift. I’m sick and can’t come in today. I’m sorry for the short notice. I’ll update you by [time].”
“Hi [Manager], this is [Your Name]. I’m running about [15] minutes late because [reason]. I’ll be there by [time]. Sorry for the delay.”
“Before I start, I want to make sure I get this right. Did you mean [A] or [B]?”
Then repeat the answer back: “Got it: [answer].”
“I [what happened]. That’s on me. I’ll [fix it] by [time], and next time I’ll [what you’ll do differently].”
Subject: Thank you, [Position] interview
“Hi [Name], thank you for meeting with me today about the [position]. I enjoyed learning about [something
specific]. I’m excited about the opportunity and look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely, [Your Name], [Phone]”
Complete Track 1, Fix the Message: attend, complete your reflection, and show the F-I-X skills in a role-play
Complete Track 2, Sync or Sink: attend, complete your reflection, and contribute to a team challenge
Complete a mock interview and a finished resume. Earn Bronze and Silver first.
TBD. Check back here for dates and times.
Get a professional email address. Use a simple version of your name, like firstname.lastname.
Record a professional voicemail greeting. Employers will call you.
Early is on time. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your shift or interview.
Send a thank-you within 24 hours of an interview. Many applicants skip it.
Ask, don't guess. A specific question shows you care about getting it right.
Clean up your social media. Employers may look before they hire.