The Importance of Teaching Teens Better Communication
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Why would teens need to worry about communication skills?
I spent nine months meeting with teens to get their input for the book Smile and Succeed for Teens, which is why teens are reading it and loving it (really!). It’s short and easy to read, which is big reason teens read it. I also hired the teen editor at Penguin Books to go through the manuscript twice to ensure the book is teen friendly. Moms, grandmas and teachers gave me their valuable input for the book over that same nine month period.
Teens read Smile & Succeed for Teens to prepare for a job interview and to make certain they get the job. Teens learn how to communicate and have a conversation. They learn when and when not to have their cell phones out, and how to volunteer effectively. Smile & Succeed for Teens gives teens the tools and confidence they need to succeed.
Can you share one of the success stories that is result of a teen reading Smile & Succeed for Teens?
Alicia, a middle school teacher in Michigan told me, “Kirt, my students LOVE the book! They are learning so much! After our 8th grade graduation, where the students received their diplomas after shaking the principal’s hand, the principal came up to me and she said, ‘Your students all had good eye contact and firm handshakes! I expected poor eye contact and loosy goosey handshakes.'”
Alicia told the pricipal, “They read the book!” That’s one of my favorite stories!
Click here to see how we are using Smile & Succeed for Teens as part of our high school coursework.
Below is an excerpt from Smile & Succeed for Teens to help your tweens and teens make a great first impression.
SAY PLEASE AND THANK YOU
Good manners never go out of style. They are expected in all social and business situations.
SAY “PLEASE”
Say “Please” when you request something from your family, friends, or customers. For example, “May I please borrow the car tonight?” or “Would you please unlock your gate so we can mow your backyard?” Be sincere and genuine.
SAY “THANK YOU”
Say “Thank you” when someone does something nice for you. These two words cannot be overused when showing your appreciation.
Say “Thank you” even if your request is not granted. A “No” today does not mean a “No” forever. Whether or not your parents let you borrow the car (or whether your customer has made a purchase or donation or not), they took the time to consider your request. Using good manners might help you hear “Yes” the next time you ask.
When a customer leaves your business, thank them for coming in. Say “Thank you” in a warm and genuine manner. Or say “Thank you for coming in. I look forward to seeing you again.”
Sometimes a telephone call, letter, or card is appropriate and meaningful. For example, when you receive a gift from your grandparents, don’t text or email to thank them. Call and thank them on the phone or mail them a thank-you card or letter. Do this within five days of receiving the gift.
SAY “YOU’RE WELCOME”
When someone says “Thank you,” answer with a smile and a polite “You’re welcome.” Don’t answer with “No problem,” “Sure,” or “Yep.” Always treat others with the utmost respect.
WIRED TIP: “Please,” “Thank you,” and “You’re welcome” are just as important over the phone and online as they are face-to-face.
Excerpted from Smile & Succeed for Teens: A Crash Course in Face-to-Face Communication
Kirt Manecke is a an award-winning author. He spent nine months meeting with teens for his book Smile & Succeed for Teens: A Crash Course in Face-to-Face Communication
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