NC 686: Communication Skills for the Workplace

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2022
Credits: 0
Total Contact Hours: 8
Lecture Hours : 8
Lab Hours: 0
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 16
Transferable to CSU: No
Transferable to UC: No
Grading Method: Non-Credit Course

Catalog Course Description

This course is designed to equip students with the necessary soft skills to succeed in a workplace setting. It introduces and covers such soft skills as time management, following dress codes, work ethics, verbal and nonverbal communication, conflict management, teamwork, and respecting diverse groups. Open entry/exit. 8 lecture hours.

Course Objectives

  • Develop appropriate communication skills (verbal and nonverbal) for the workplace.
  • Learn about and identify key soft skill competencies.
  • Develop appropriate attitudes and behaviors in order to succeed in a workplace setting.
  • Identify and recognize the basics of teamwork.
  • Understand expectations of employers, including dress and other codes of conduct.
  • Demonstrate improved communication skills with coworkers and superiors.

Major Course Content

  1. Definition of and introduction to the importance of soft skills in a workplace setting
  2. Definition of and introduction to soft skill competencies 
    1. Self-evaluation
    2. Personal responsibility
    3. Positive attitude
    4. Good work habits
    5. Time management
    6. People skills
      1. Communication
    7. Proactive learning
    8. Problem-solving
    9. Decision-making
    10. Service
    11. Teamwork
  3. Development of appropriate attitudes in workplace settings
  4. Introduction to communication skills: verbal and non-verbal, including tone of voice, body language, word choice, etc. 
  5. Introduction to interpersonal and teamwork skills
  6. Introduction to personal qualities and work ethics

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

- https://www.okcareertech.org/educators/cimc/resources/downloads-1/pdf-files/soft-skills-some-suggested-resources

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

Write a short paragraph about three consequences of not being a dependable employee. Include any relevant personal experiences or examples. Be prepared to share your paragraph with a partner.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Read a sample employee code of conduct manual and discuss it in a small group.

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Online Education Lecture