Rasha Abou Chakra is the first point of contact in her workplace. When
clients walk in the door, her duty is to present the company's services in a positive way and suggest solutions to their challenges.
Her job requires the ability to speak diplomatically; in person, on the telephone and through e-mail. Her problem solving, decision making, and interpersonal skills are just a few of the skills she needs to use on a daily basis.
It's hard to believe that only three years ago Rasha could barely speak English.
"I faced several obstacles at the beginning of my new life in Canada in 2016, I could speak Arabic and French but knew very little English. Moreover, finding a job was not easy at first because you need to have Canadian work experience," says Rasha.
It was her sister that introduced her to Centre for Skills Development for English as a Second Language classes, where she took every opportunity to learn about the language and culture. After taking part in the program, Rasha learned from her instructor about the Workplace English program, and she immediately applied. "I wanted to learn the skills required to get into the workplace in Canada. This was a way to strengthen my resume while at the same time learning the skills I needed."
The Workplace English program provides language training designed to improve upon English language skills, while preparing clients for success in their job. This includes learning about the workplace environment and the importance of developing Cultural Intelligence in today's multicultural workplace, as well as learning about different management styles, and the connection between motivation and job satisfaction. It also helps with resume and cover letter writing, and how to pass a job interview successfully.
"The lessons that I will never forget and use in my daily life are the characteristics of communication; listening skills, focusing on the problem, using appropriate body language when speaking, paraphrasing a person's main message, and not being afraid to make mistakes," says Rasha. "The program was very engaging and full of activities and assignments, giving us the tools needed to improve listening, speaking, writing and reading skills. I especially found the Telephone and Customer Service Etiquette portion of the program helpful, since we learned about etiquette when receiving and making a call, voicemail etiquette, and customer service guidelines - things I do in my job now quite often."
Now, Rasha is employed as an Administrative Assistant for The Salvation Army, is a staff member of the International Relations Student Association at York University, and volunteers with the United Nations Association in Canada Human Rights Committee.
"The Workplace English program gave me the skills that helped bridge me into the Canadian workforce. I am very grateful to my instructors and this program for helping me get to where I am today."
Interested in enrolling into the Workplace English program? By the end of the course you will have learned how to:
* uncover the basics of effective communication
* relevant grammar and business idioms
* new techniques to improve pronunciation
* gain confidence in oral communication and speaking in front of others
* enhance your writing ability and written communication
* perfect your interview skills
* discover factors and language to maintain motivation
* to send clear and effective email messages
* prepare and give professional presentations
* About Canadian corporate culture, why people resist change
* identify what excellent customer service means
Program starts September 9!
Where: Centre for Skills Development, 550 Ontario Street S, Unit 15, Milton
Classes: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
Time: 12:30 - 3:00p.m.
To register, call: 905-693-8103 x 101