Problem Solving & Self-Advocacy
What is one strategy you can use when you don’t understand a question someone asks you?
Ask for clarification, say “I don’t know,” or request extra time.
After finishing a task at your internship or job, what should you do next?
Check in with a staff member or supervisor.
You’re doing a Google Slides presentation. What are two skills you’ll practice?
Communication and technology skills.
You don’t know how to spell a word. What’s a tool you can use to help?
Spell-check, voice-to-text, or a dictionary.
You feel like swearing at school or work. What should you do instead?
Use appropriate words or ask for a break to cool down.
You have a hard or big task to do. What is the first thing you should do?
Identify the problem and break it into smaller steps.
What’s one way to find a custodial or janitorial job?
Search for local job openings online, on an app, or on a job board.
What should you do if you want to go into a backroom at the IP?
Ask permission clearly and politely before entering. Sometimes the answer may be no.
You need to fill out a medical form. What should you have ready?
Personal information like your name, phone number, and address. You will also need information for an emergency contact.
You’re upset and want to stay calm. What’s one thing you can try?
Take deep breaths or ask to step away for a moment.
*Remember, stepping away doesn't end the task, conversation, or situation. It just helps you regulate!
You’re not sure how to do something at work. What can you do before asking for help?
Think about different solutions and choose the best one. If that doesn't work, then ask for help.
What do you call a form you fill out to try and get a job?
A job application.
You’re having a conversation. What’s a good way to stay on topic?
Listen to what the other person says and give a related response. People won't want to chat with you if you keep talking about different things.
You’re filling out a job application and don’t remember your phone number. What can you do?
Check your phone, ask a staff member, or look it up in your records.
You hear a friend use bad language at work. What’s a better choice you can make?
Stay professional and choose respectful words, even if others don’t.
You’re asked what type of job you want. How can you advocate for yourself?
Talk about what you enjoy and more importantly, what your strengths are.
What’s something important to do when working for 45 minutes straight?
Stay focused and keep going!
You’re starting a conversation with someone new. What’s one good way to make a positive first impression?
Greet them politely, smile, and say something friendly or work-related.
You’re shopping and want to buy something for $15. You have $12. Can you buy it?
No, you don’t have enough money.
You’re feeling really frustrated but want to stay in the workplace. What’s one way to stay in control without leaving the room?
Use a calming strategy quietly, like squeezing a fidget, taking deep breaths, or counting in your head.
You’re getting frustrated because you’re stuck. What can you say to your teacher or job coach?
“Can you explain that again?”, “Can I have a little more time?”, or "Can I have a short break?"
*Remember, if you take a break, you need to return to the task when you're regulated!
What kind of strengths would be good for cleaning jobs?
Enjoying cleaning, noticing details, and liking organized spaces.
You’re talking to someone new at work. What’s something helpful to share?
Your job strengths, what tasks you enjoy doing or things about yourself.
What tool can you use to check if you can afford something at a store?
A calculator.
What can happen if you use bad language at a job?
You might get a warning or lose the job.