In preparation, collect magazines, online clothing store catalogues or advertising brochures. A catalogue from a corporate uniform company is an excellent resource, and so are catalogues of jewellery and makeup. Students work in pairs to collect images of examples of clothing which are appropriate to their particular workplace. Encourage students involved in construction or outdoor work to consider safety and comfort issues in their choice of clothing.

The use of the looking your best for work ⁵ PowerPoint could form a basis for a class discussion. Students could discuss whether they agree on all aspects of the PowerPoint.

Students dress up to take the appropriate images for their PowerPoint.

Employer expectations

Employers value the following attributes in their employees:

• reliablility

• punctuality

• loyalty

• enthusiasm

• honesty

• being motivated

• being well presented

• cleanliness and tidiness

• being willing to learn

• working effectively without supervision

• taking the initiative

• being a team player and getting along with others

• being able to follow verbal instructions

• being organised

• being committed

• being able to follow written instructions

• having common sense

Workplace etiquette

The video series, Workplace Etiquette Part 1⁶, Part 2⁷ and Part 3⁸ is on YouTube and will need to be shown by the teacher where access is unavailable to students on some school networks. The videos can be used as a catalyst for class discussion around aspects of workplace etiquette.

As two of these videos run for over nine minutes each, and one for over four minutes, if class time is limited, it is suggested that the class be divided into three groups, with each group watching a different video. This also allows for a greater opportunity for class collaboration and self-directed learning.

After viewing the videos in their groups, students report back to the whole class about the issues raised in their particular group video. As a whole class, they then collaborate to create a set of guidelines for workplace etiquette. They can create a mindmap using an online tool like Bubbl.us⁹ then develop and share their guidelines using Office 365 or Google Drive tools. Take a look Learning tools selector¹⁰ to help you choose the right application.

Rights and Responsibilities

The scenarios in this section deal with the following issues:

• Punctuality

• Personal mobile use, email use and access to inappropriate material

• Discrimination

• Standard of work/ lack of team work

• Confidentiality

• Code of conduct - theft

Assertive behaviours indicate that an employee can handle most situations and perform well in the workplace. Students can take an assertiveness test ¹¹ to gain insight into their current level of assertiveness.

Fair work Australia ¹² is an excellent resource. Use the bar at the top of the web page to find other information, especially information related to the employee.

BSBIND201: Work effectively in a business environment

This resource can also be linked to other competencies.

BSBWOR203B: Work effectively with others

BSBWHS201A: Participate in OHS processes

BSBWOR204: Use business technology

1. Work within organisational requirements

2. Work in a team

3. Develop effective work habits

1.1:Identify and read organisation’s requirements and responsibilities and seek advice from appropriate persons, where necessary.

1.2: Develop and utilise a current working knowledge and understanding of employee and employer rights and responsibilities.

1.4:Identify roles and responsibilities of colleagues and immediate supervisors.

1.6:Identify, recognise and follow behaviour that contributes to a safe work environment.

2.1:Display courteous and helpful manners at all times.

2.2:Complete allocated tasks as required.

2.5:Identify and display a non discriminatory attitude in all contacts with staff, management or clients.

3.3:Observe appropriate dress and behaviour as required by the workplace, job role or customer contact.