Happy Labor Day! You’ve probably heard the age-old adage “no pain, no gain” at some point or other, because, let’s face it, work can be hard. Hopefully you’re taking it easy this week to commemorate the holiday and can check out these reads and resources for inspiration when facing challenges on the job.
READ: A Castle in the Clouds by Kerstin Gier
Way up in the Swiss mountains, there's an old grand hotel steeped in tradition and faded splendor. Once a year, the famous New Year's Eve Ball takes place and guests from all over the world arrive. Sophie, who works at the hotel as an intern, is busy making sure that everything goes according to plan. But unexpected problems keep arising, and some of the guests are not who they pretend to be. Sophie finds herself in the middle of a perilous adventure--and at risk of losing not only her job, but also her heart.
Questions to think about while you read:
- Describe Sophie’s work experience. How does it compare to yours?
- Which passages involving the staff or guests at the hotel stand out to you? Why?
- In what ways has Sophie’s story affected your thinking or actions in the workplace?
LISTEN: Making Requests – The Art of the Ask
Whether you’ve already landed a job or are just dreaming about it for now, developing the powerful skill of asking for what you need can make all the difference between a positive or poor work experience. Log in to LinkedIn Learning and join Wayne Baker, professor at the University of Michigan, to learn how best to make “yes” the most likely answer and to turn a “no” into a successful new ask.
Questions to think about while you listen:
- How might making a request lighten your current work load?
- Consider your past requests. What went well? What did you find challenging?
- In what ways has this guidance better prepared you for the next time you speak up?
EXPLORE: Graphic T-shirt Design
Make customized stencils to celebrate your successes or raise awareness of issues that impact your job.
Supplies:
- blank T-shirt of your choice
- marker
- freezer paper
- precision hobby knife or scissors
- iron
- piece of cardboard or cardstock
- fabric paints and paint brushes
Steps:
- Draw or trace a printed design onto freezer paper, with the waxy side facing down.
- Use scissors or a precision knife to cut your design out.
- Place the design on the t-shirt, again with the waxy side facing down, and iron it onto the t-shirt (check the label for the appropriate iron setting for the material).
- Place a piece of cardboard or thick cardstock inside the t-shirt and apply 1-2 coats of paint over the stencil. Set aside to dry for a few hours or overnight before peeling away the stencil.
JOIN: Attend a program virtually or in person!
View all teen programs and events offered this week.
For virtual programs, registration is required to receive the Zoom link; use the link in the program information to register.
For in person programs, registration is required; if space allows, walk-ins will be admitted. Use the link in the program information to register.
