4. Why Attitude Matters
This activity aims to review the impact of personal attitude on work.
Watch
Enthusiasm and Attitude (1:13). This video shares tips on why enthusiasm and attitude matter.
Discuss
Something that can make a big difference in getting and keeping a job—your attitude and enthusiasm at work. Employers don’t just look at what skills you have; they also want to see if you are friendly, positive, and ready to do your best. Even if you don’t know everything about a job yet, having a good attitude can help you learn and grow!
Imagine two people starting the same new job. One comes in with a smile, says “Good morning”, and shows they are ready to learn. The other person walks in with their head down, doesn’t greet anyone, and sighs when asked to do something. Which person do you think the manager will notice in a positive way? Why? [Note to Instructors: Pause for students to respond.]
Interactive Opportunity
Now, let’s practice. Here are some scenarios with a work task. Act these out in two ways—first with no enthusiasm, then with energy and a good attitude. [Note to Instructors: Pick one scenario to model for the students. Depending on students, time, technology, and comfort level, you can consider doing this as a group, in pairs, or students can record themselves individually.]
- Customer Service: Pretend you are working at a store. A customer asks where to find an item. First show a response with no enthusiasm. Now redo it with a positive attitude.
- Phone Call: Pretend you are calling a job to ask about an interview. First say it in a quiet, unconfident way. Now redo it with energy and a clear voice.
- Taking Instructions: Pretend your boss or instructor have given you feedback and instructions. First respond with a negative attitude (sighing, slouching, etc.). Now redo it with a smile or enthusiasm.
- What did you notice between the first response then the redo response?
- What would an employer or instructor think?
- What about a customer?
- How did it feel for you?