Report & Resource Guide
Integrating Essential Skills into Training Materials
Ready to Work North is an outstanding program. It is described as “unlike any other job
skills course you will find today.”
The course incorporates the teaching of attitudes into
the curriculum and references to the importance of attitude for finding and keeping work
are a constant in the program.
“Our attitudes control our lives. Attitudes are a secret power working twenty-four hours a day, for good or bad. It is of paramount importance that we know how to harness and control this great force.” Tom Blandi
”Without [a positive attitude] nothing else happens. It is important for all aspects of the job. Attitude is all there is! This is the most important aspect of employees. This may be the reason a person is hired and keeps a job.”
The workbook begins with positive attitude because it is the foundation for the development of all other skills and attitudes needed for work. A positive attitude is a state of mind. Individuals with positive attitudes approach activities and people with expectations of positive outcomes. This optimism motivates them to work hard within their families, schools, jobs, and communities. It also gives them a sense of purpose and confidence. People with a positive attitude do not blame others for problems. They think about a situation, determine what is within their control and authority, and then decide what actions to take. People that have positive outlooks (and the accompanying attributes of confidence, honesty, respect, and initiative) put effort into their work, relationships, and other endeavours to encourage good outcomes for both themselves and others.
Following a successful pilot in fall 2005, the program is available to be utilized by all northern communities.