What Youth Get out of Work Placements- Part 2: Social Skills

Another important aspect of work placements is the exposure to a new group of people who you are going to spend a lot of time with. This is a great opportunity for youth to build upon their social skills. 

When a youth starts working, they are opened up to a diversified pool of co-workers which gives them the opportunity to create connections with new people. Keeping an open mind and being social in a work setting can create bonds that fulfill them in different ways than a typical friendship. They can learn to socialize in ways that push them outside of their comfort zone. This can help them to feel more confident in their ability to talk to people they don’t know or wouldn't typically expect a connection with. This is a great skill to have. 

Networking is an important social skill to develop in the workplace, but there are other factors of work socialization that should not be overlooked. As we go through life, it is important that we are open to establishing connections with people outside of those we naturally gravitate towards. Learning to be open to social scenarios and experiences that are outside of our “normal” can create unique and fulfilling relationships. Work relationships give youth an outlet where they can establish this type of connection with their coworkers. At the same time, placements give youth the opportunity to develop professionalism and practice boundaries in the workplace.These skills are important to learn while youth are in their first job, so they carry on these skills to future jobs and opportunities. 

Life is meant to connect with people. If you are placed into a work situation with coworkers that seem reasonable to establish a connection with, it’s a great way to practice socializing and create connections with people you aren’t usually inclined to do so with. At the same time, you are learning social and emotional boundaries!   

- Clare, Co-op Student