Workplace
Attire
Attire
What does "dress code" mean?
A set of rules about what clothing is appropriate at work.
Example: Your job might require wearing a uniform or no ripped jeans.
Are you allowed to use your phone really quick during your shift without permission?
No. It's distracting, it's unproductive, and it's against the rules.
If your shift starts at 9:00 AM, what time should you arrive?
By 8:45 AM or earlier to get ready and clock in.
Getting there 15 minutes early shows you’re prepared.
A customer asks a question you don’t know. What should you do?
Say: “I’m not sure, let me find someone who can help.”
Example: Find a supervisor or experienced coworker to assist the customer.
How can showing initiative improve your chances of getting hired again next summer?
Employers remember dependable workers who take action without being told.
Example: Re-stocking supplies or helping teammates without being asked shows leadership.
What is the difference between business casual and professional attire?
★ (Double Points)
Business casual is professional and relaxed, like khakis and polo shirts; professional dress is more formal, like suits or blazers.
Example: Wearing a blazer to an office interview is professional; wearing clean jeans and a button-up shirt is business casual.
What should you do if you finish your work early?
Ask for more tasks or help a coworker, don’t scroll your phone or wander.
Example: After restocking shelves, ask your manager if you can help clean or organize. Or, take initiative and do it without asking.
What should you do if you realize you’ll be late for your shift?
Call and message your supervisor as soon as possible.
Example: “I apologize, I’m running late due to a bus delay. I’ll be there by 9:10.”
A customer is rude and yelling. What should you do, and what shouldn’t you do?
★ (Double Points)
Stay calm, speak politely, and get help from a manager. Don’t argue, raise your voice, or walk away.
Example: “I understand you’re upset. Let me get someone who can help.”
Why might your attitude matter more than your experience in a summer job?
A positive, coachable attitude means you're easier to train and work with.
Example: Someone who wants to learn and stays positive will often be chosen over someone with more skills but a bad attitude.
Name three things you should NOT wear at your (summer) job.
Flip-flops, short shorts, crop tops, shirts with offensive prints, no shirt...
If you disagree with your supervisor, what’s the professional way to handle it?
Calmly explain your point and listen to their side as well.
Example: Say, “I understand your view. I think or feel…” instead of arguing loudly.
Name two things you can do the night before to make your workday easier.
★ (Double Points)
Plan your transportation and lay out what you need for work the night before.
Example: Checking the bus schedule or connecting with your ride the night before to confirm plans. Laying out clothes, keys, and preparing lunch.
A coworker regularly jokes inappropriately or makes others uncomfortable. What’s the right response?
Politely ask them to stop or report it to a supervisor if it continues.
Example: “That’s not cool. Please don’t joke like that at work.”
How can asking questions improve your performance as a new employee?
It helps prevent mistakes and shows you're eager to learn.
Example: “Can you show me again how to log this correctly?”
What’s the difference between casual clothes and business casual?
★ (Double Points)
Casual clothes are everyday wear like sweatpants, leggings, tank tops, and t-shirts; business casual is professional and more polished.
Example: Wearing a polo shirt and khakis is business casual, while ripped jeans are casual.
Why is using personal headphones or earbuds discouraged at your job sites?
It reduces awareness of surroundings, makes communication harder, and can be a safety issue.
Example: A cashier listening to music might miss a customer needing help or a safety announcement.
Describe how you would plan your day if you have work at 9 AM to 2 PM, your friends want to hangout at 1 PM, and have chores at home.
Prioritize being on time for work, tell your friends you'll meet them after, and do chores before or after work.
Example: Wake up early to do chores (or the night before), work 9–2, friends at 3.
You disagree with how a task was assigned. What’s a respectful way to express your concern?
Wait for the right time, speak calmly, and use “I” statements.
Example: “I feel I could do a better job helping customers today than working in the stockroom, can we talk about that?”
What is “workplace integrity,” and why does it matter?
★ (Double Points)
Integrity means being honest and doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.
Example: If you break something, you report it rather than hide it.
What should you do if you cannot afford and/or do not have the type of attire expected at your job?
Speak with your supervisor or RochesterWorks, who may offer resources or adjustments, or seek affordable alternatives.
Why should you avoid posting negative things about your job on social media, even outside of work hours?
Employers, employees and customers can see it, and it could lead to disciplinary action or termination.
Example: A teen complaining about customers on TikTok could be fired for unprofessional conduct.
You’re scheduled to work from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., but your ride is always late. What do you do?
Plan ahead or find a reliable backup plan—timeliness is your responsibility, not your ride’s.
Example: Arrange a ride the night before or leave earlier, even if it means arriving early and waiting.
What’s the best response if your supervisor gives you unexpected feedback in front of others?
Stay respectful and listen, then ask to speak privately afterward if needed.
Example: “Thanks for the feedback. Can we talk later so I understand how to improve?”
You’re told to complete a task differently than how you were originally trained. What should you do?
Clarify expectations before acting. Ask whether the new instruction replaces the old one.
Example: “Thanks for showing me. Should I use this new method going forward or just for today?”