As a parent, you play a pivotal role in preparing your teen for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. One crucial aspect of their journey to independence is developing strong communication skills, especially when they’re seeking their first job. In this article, we’ll explore top communication skills needed by teens in the job market and discuss ways parents can help their children cultivate these skills.

You have undoubtedly witnessed the incredible growth and transformation your child is undergoing during their teen years. It’s a time of exploration, self-discovery, and, for many, the first steps into the professional world. One of the most critical aspects of this journey is equipping your teen with the communication skills necessary for success in the workplace.  Starting a new job can be a scary experience for your teen, particularly when it requires new skills that they may not have fully developed.

Communication skills in both verbal and written communication are needed in professional work environments.  They help your teen to express their thoughts with clarity, solve problems that arise and show their adaptability in dynamic workplace scenarios.  Workplaces value teamwork which depends on a variety of communication skills including active listening, time management, and conflict resolution.

Parents can help equip their teens to enter the job market confidently and succeed in their careers.  Acquiring effective communication skills for the workplace can be accomplished through indirect and direct instruction.  Indirect instruction, or in the moment learning, occurs in the day-to-day conversations you have with your child.  Direct instruction relies on a more planned teaching of a skill.  The list below includes four communication skills that employers are looking for along with indirect and direct ways to help your child develop these skills.

1. Active Listening

Active listening is the foundation of effective communication. Learning how to listen attentively to understand others’ perspectives, instructions, and expectations is valuable in the workplace.

• Modeling Good Listening: Demonstrate the art of active listening when they talk to you or when you engage in conversations with others.
• Asking Open-ended Questions: Encourage your teen to ask questions that invite more detailed responses, fostering deeper connections with peers and potential employers.
• Avoiding Interruptions: Teach them the importance of not interrupting others while they’re speaking and waiting for their turn to contribute to the conversation.

2. Effective Verbal Communication

Clear and concise verbal communication is vital for job interviews, meetings, and daily interactions.

• Practice Mock Interviews: Conduct mock job interviews at home to help your teen gain confidence in articulating their thoughts and experiences.
• Expand Vocabulary: Encourage your teen to read, explore new words, and use them in everyday conversations. This will enhance their ability to express themselves more effectively.
• Public Speaking: Encourage participation in activities like school presentations, debate clubs, or community events to boost their confidence in public speaking.

3. Non-Verbal Communication

Non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, often convey more than words alone.

• Body Language Awareness: Help them understand how posture, gestures, and eye contact can influence the way they are perceived by others.
• Role-Playing: Engage in role-playing exercises to demonstrate the impact of non-verbal cues in different social situations.
• Video Recordings: Record practice interviews or presentations to review and improve their non-verbal communication skills.

4. Conflict Resolution Skills

Conflict is an inevitable part of life. Teens should learn how to handle disagreements and conflicts in a constructive manner. Guide your teen in conflict resolution by:

• Model Conflict Resolution: Demonstrate healthy conflict resolution techniques in your own relationships.
• Teach Empathy: Help them understand others’ perspectives and feelings during a conflict.
• Role-Play Scenarios: Practice conflict resolution scenarios to give them practical experience.

Effective communication skills are paramount for workplace success for individuals of all ages.  Parents can make a significant difference in their teen’s development in this area.  By supporting your child’s growth in these vital communication skills, you’re equipping your teen with tools that will benefit them throughout their lives.

About the Author

Melanie Upright has more than 25 years of experience in education. She is the author of More Time to Lead; The Principal’s Guide to Empowered Teachers, Successful Students and Satisfied Parents and creator of “Four Perspectives: A Framework for Helping Struggling Learners.” She is the founder of the Center for Interpersonal Communication where she provides training in critical communication skills for leaders informed by her training as a speech-language pathologist.  She is also the Project Administrator for Leadership and Educational Impact with the Johns Hopkins University Center for Technology in Education where she leads schools, districts, and states in the Dynamic Impact Team-Directed Continuous Improvement approach.

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