easyScholars: Job Ready Skills Program

Session 1: Understanding Professional Communication

• The Communication Cycle: Sender, Receiver, Message, Channel, Feedback.
• Importance of Clear Communication in the Workplace.
• Barriers to Effective Communication & How to Overcome Them.
• Verbal vs. Non-Verbal vs. Written Communication.

Session 2: Mastering Verbal Clarity

• Speaking Clearly: Pace, Tone, Volume, and Articulation.
• Choosing Appropriate Language for Professional Settings (Avoiding slang/jargon).
• Organizing Your Thoughts Before Speaking.
• Asking Effective Questions & Seeking Clarification.

Session 3: The Art of Active Listening

• Difference Between Hearing and Active Listening.
• Techniques for Active Listening: Paying Attention, Showing You’re Listening (Nodding, Summarizing).
• Paraphrasing and Reflecting to Ensure Understanding.
• Responding Thoughtfully.

Session 4: Professional Written Communication Basics (Email Focus)

• Structure of a Professional Email: Subject Line, Salutation, Body, Closing, Signature.
• Crafting Clear and Concise Email Messages.
• Email Etiquette: Tone, Formality, CC/BCC, Attachments, Promptness.
• Common Email Scenarios: Requests, Information Sharing, Thank You Notes.
• Proofreading Techniques for Error-Free Emails.

Session 5: Understanding Non-Verbal Cues

• Importance of Body Language: Posture, Gestures, Facial Expressions.
• Maintaining Appropriate Eye Contact.
• Interpreting Non-Verbal Signals from Others.
• Ensuring Your Non-Verbal Cues Align with Your Verbal Message.

Session 6: Planning Your Presentation

• Defining the Purpose and Objective of Your Presentation.
• Understanding Your Audience.
• Structuring a Simple Presentation: Introduction, Key Points (2-3), Conclusion.

Session 7: Delivering with Clarity

• Speaking Confidently and Clearly.
• Using Simple Visual Aids (if any) Effectively.
• Engaging the Audience (Asking questions, making eye contact).
• Managing Time Effectively During a Short Presentation.

Session 8: Understanding Team Dynamics

• Importance of Teamwork in Organizations.
• Different Roles within a Team (Leader, Contributor, Supporter).
• Stages of Team Development (Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing – basic overview).

Session 9: Contributing Effectively in a Team

• Sharing Ideas and Information Openly.
• Respecting Diverse Perspectives and Opinions.
• Being Reliable and Accountable for Your Tasks.
• Supporting Team Members.

Session 10: Basic Conflict Resolution

• Understanding Common Sources of Workplace Conflict.
• Approaches to Resolving Minor Conflicts Constructively.
• Focusing on Solutions, Not Blame.
• Knowing When to Escalate an Issue.

Session 11: Introduction to Problem-Solving

• Defining a Problem Clearly.
• Importance of Analytical Thinking.
• A Simple Problem-Solving Framework (e.g., Define, Analyze, Identify Solutions, Implement, Review – DASI-R).

Session 12: Analyzing Issues Systematically

• Gathering Relevant Information.
• Identifying Root Causes vs. Symptoms (5 Whys Technique – basic).
• Breaking Down Complex Problems into Smaller Parts.

Session 13: Finding & Evaluating Solutions

• Brainstorming Potential Solutions.
• Evaluating Pros and Cons of Different Options.
• Choosing the Most Appropriate Solution.

Session 14: Introduction to Critical Thinking

• What is Critical Thinking? (Questioning assumptions, evaluating information).
• Distinguishing Fact from Opinion.
• Thinking Logically and Rationally.

Session 15: Understanding Professionalism

• Core Attributes of a Professional: Integrity, Responsibility, Respect.
• Importance of Punctuality and Attendance.
• Accountability for Your Actions and Work.
• Maintaining a Positive Attitude.

Session 16: Workplace Etiquette & Conduct

• Appropriate Dress Code and Grooming (General guidelines).
• Office Demeanor: Behavior in common areas, managing noise levels.
• Respecting Personal Space and Company Property.
• Mobile Phone Etiquette in the Workplace.

Session 17: Online Meeting Etiquette

• Preparing for Virtual Meetings (Tech check, background, lighting).
• Joining on Time, Muting/Unmuting Appropriately.
• Engaging Actively in Virtual Discussions.
• Professional Appearance on Camera.

Session 18: Embracing Change & Flexibility

• Understanding Why Adaptability is Crucial in Today’s Workplace.
• Being Open to New Ideas and Ways of Working.
• Coping with Unexpected Changes and Challenges.

Session 19: Cultivating a Learning Mindset

• Importance of Continuous Learning and Skill Development.
• Seeking Feedback for Growth.
• Learning from Mistakes and Setbacks.
• Staying Curious and Proactive in Learning.

Key Learning Outcomes (Module 1):

Learners can communicate clearly and professionally in various workplace settings, make basic presentations, participate effectively in teams, apply simple frameworks to approach problems systematically, demonstrate understanding of workplace professionalism and etiquette, and appreciate the importance of adaptability and continuous learning.

Activities (Module 1):

• Communication: Role-playing (introductions, professional phone calls, simple discussions, giving/receiving feedback), email drafting exercises for various scenarios, peer review of written communication.
• Presentation: Short individual presentations (2-3 minutes) on familiar topics with peer feedback.
• Teamwork: Group problem-solving tasks, collaborative mini-projects, discussions on team dynamics.
• Problem-Solving: Analyzing simple case studies, applying the DASI-R framework to hypothetical problems.
• Professionalism: Discussions on workplace scenarios, self-assessment of professional habits, case studies on etiquette blunders and best practices.
• Adaptability: Self-reflection exercises on handling change, discussions on industry trends requiring new skills.

Session 20: Introduction to LinkedIn for Professionals

• Why LinkedIn is Essential for Career Building.
• Understanding Different Sections of a LinkedIn Profile.
• Setting Profile Visibility and Privacy Settings.

Session 21: Crafting a Compelling Headline & Summary

• Writing a Keyword-Rich Headline that Attracts Recruiters.
• Developing a Professional Summary/About Section (Highlighting skills, aspirations, even for freshers using projects/internships).

Session 22: Detailing Experience & Education

• Effectively Listing Internships, Projects, Volunteer Work (for freshers).
• Quantifying Achievements and Responsibilities.
• Properly Showcasing Educational Qualifications and Certifications.

Session 23: Skills, Endorsements & Recommendations

• Identifying and Adding Relevant Skills (Hard & Soft).
• Understanding the Value of Endorsements.
• How to Politely Request Recommendations (and from whom).
• Adding a Professional Profile Photo and Background Image.

Session 24: Finding Relevant Connections

• Searching for Alumni, Industry Professionals, Recruiters.
• Using LinkedIn Groups Effectively.
• Identifying People Working in Target Companies.

Session 25: Sending Appropriate Connection Requests & Messages

• Personalizing Connection Requests (Why you want to connect).
• Crafting Professional Introduction Messages.
• Engaging with Connections’ Content (Likes, Comments, Shares).
• Dos and Don’ts of LinkedIn Messaging.

Session 26: Overview of Popular Indian Job Boards

• Introduction to Naukri.com, Internshala, Indeed, Shine, etc.
• Creating and Optimizing Profiles on Key Job Boards.

Session 27: Maximizing Job Board Searches

• Using Advanced Search Filters Effectively (Location, Experience, Industry, Salary).
• Setting Up Job Alerts for Relevant Openings.
• Understanding Keywords for Job Searches.

Session 28: Applying for Jobs via Portals

• Best Practices for Online Applications.
• Tracking Applications and Following Up (where appropriate).
• Identifying and Avoiding Fake Job Postings.

Session 29: Managing Your Digital Footprint

• Understanding What a Digital Footprint is.
• Googling Yourself: Assessing Your Online Presence.
• Ensuring Professionalism on Other Social Media (Privacy settings).
• Building a Positive Narrative Online.

Session 30: Researching Target Companies Online

• Using Company Websites, LinkedIn Pages, Glassdoor, News Articles.
• Finding Information on Company Culture, Values, Products/Services, Recent News.
• Understanding a Company’s Mission and Vision.
• Identifying Key People in the Organization.

Key Learning Outcomes (Module 2)

 Learners can create a fully optimized and professional LinkedIn profile, identify and connect with relevant professionals online, use major Indian job boards efficiently to find and apply for openings, manage their online reputation proactively, and research potential employers effectively to tailor applications and prepare for interviews.

Activities (Module 2):

• Live LinkedIn profile creation/review workshop with peer and instructor feedback.
• Guided exercises for searching jobs and professionals on LinkedIn and Naukri.
• Drafting personalized LinkedIn connection requests and messages for different scenarios.
• Company research assignments with presentations on findings.
• Group discussion on managing online reputation and digital etiquette.

Session 31: Understanding the Purpose of a CV/Resume

• Role of a CV in the Job Application Process.
• Differences Between a CV and a Resume (and Indian context).
• Key Qualities of a Successful CV.

Session 32: Choosing the Right Format

• Chronological Format: When and How to Use It.
• Functional Format: When and How to Use It (less common for freshers but good to know).
• Combination Format: Blending the Best of Both.
• Standard Length and Layout Practices in India.

Session 33: Essential Sections of a CV

• Contact Information: Accuracy and Professionalism.
• Professional Summary/Objective: Crafting a Powerful Opening Statement.
• Education: Detailing Qualifications Correctly.
• Skills: Technical Skills, Soft Skills, Language Proficiency.
• Projects/Internships/Work Experience: Highlighting Relevant Experiences.
• Achievements & Awards: Showcasing Accomplishments.
• Optional Sections: Hobbies (if relevant), References (policy).

Session 34: Using Action Verbs & Powerful Language

• • Starting Bullet Points with Strong Action Verbs.
  • List of Common Action Verbs for Different Skills/Achievements.
  • Using Professional and Concise Language.

Session 35: Quantifying Achievements

• • Importance of Using Numbers and Data to Showcase Impact.
  • Examples of Quantifying Achievements (even from academic projects or internships).
  • Focusing on Results and Outcomes, Not Just Duties.

Session 36: Highlighting Skills Effectively

• • Integrating Skills into the Experience/Projects Section.
  • Creating a Dedicated Skills Section (Categorizing skills).
  • Matching Your Skills to Job Description Keywords.

Session 37: Understanding Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

• How ATS Software Works: Scanning and Ranking CVs.
• Common Reasons CVs Get Rejected by ATS.
• Formatting Best Practices for ATS (Fonts, Layout, Avoiding Graphics/Tables).

Session 38: Keyword Optimization for ATS

• Identifying Keywords from Job Descriptions.
• Strategically Incorporating Keywords into Your CV.
• Using Industry-Standard Terminology.

Session 39: Tailoring Your CV for Each Application

• Why a Generic CV is Ineffective.
• Analyzing the Job Description to Identify Key Requirements.
• Customizing Your Summary, Skills, and Experience Sections.
• Creating a Master CV and Tailoring Variations.

Session 40: Purpose and Importance of a Cover Letter

• When to Submit a Cover Letter.
• How a Cover Letter Complements Your CV.
• Expressing Your Motivation and Fit for the Role.

Session 41: Cover Letter Structure & Content

• Standard Format: Your Contact Info, Date, Employer Contact Info, Salutation.
• Introduction: Stating the Position You’re Applying For and Where You Saw It.
• Body Paragraphs: Matching Your Skills/Experience to 2-3 Key Job Requirements, Showcasing Enthusiasm.
• Conclusion: Reaffirming Interest, Call to Action (Requesting an interview).
• Professional Closing and Signature.

Session 42: Writing a Persuasive Cover Letter

• Tailoring Your Cover Letter to Each Specific Job and Company.
• Maintaining a Professional and Confident Tone.
• Proofreading for Errors.

Session 43: Introduction to Portfolios (If Applicable)

• Understanding When a Portfolio is Beneficial (Design, Writing, Tech projects).
• Types of Work to Include in a Portfolio.
• Online Portfolio Platforms vs. PDF Portfolios.
• How to Refer to Your Portfolio in Your CV/Cover Letter.

Key Learning Outcomes (Module 3)

Learners can draft/revise a professional, well-structured, and impactful CV tailored to specific roles, write a compelling and customized cover letter that highlights their suitability, understand how ATS systems screen applications and optimize their documents accordingly, and know when and how to present project work through a portfolio.

Activities (Module 3):

• CV writing workshop with examples and templates (Indian context).
• Peer review and instructor feedback sessions for CVs.
• Cover letter drafting exercises based on sample job descriptions.
• Identifying keywords from job ads and incorporating them into sample CVs.
• Discussion and examples of good vs. bad CVs/Cover Letters.
• Mini-project: Create a tailored CV and Cover Letter for a chosen job ad.