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A firm handshake, steady eye contact and professional attire are helping Falls Church High School students build confidence—and, in some cases, secure their first jobs and internships.
Business and information technology teacher Wayne Wyatt uses lessons from his decades-long corporate career to prepare students for workplace interactions. In his classroom, khakis, blouses, collared shirts and even three-piece suits replace casual clothing as students practice making strong first impressions.
“An employer will decide in 60 seconds whether you belong on the team,” Wyatt tells his students. “You only have one opportunity for a first impression. When you walk in that room, own the room.”
Wyatt began emphasizing interpersonal abilities after overseeing newly recruited college graduates in the corporate world. He found that many arrived without the communication and collaboration skills needed to succeed professionally.
He calls those abilities “soft skills” or “power skills”—qualities that can give employees an advantage in the workplace. They also align with the Fairfax County Public Schools Portrait of a Graduate. Posters in his classroom highlight values such as adaptability, autonomy, consideration, courage and creativity.
Students do more than learn definitions. In one recent activity, they stood in two facing lines and discussed how they would spend $1 million. They shook hands, maintained eye contact and answered without relying on smartphones.
Senior Yasin suggested buying a $1 million condominium and immediately renting it out. Other students discussed paying college loans or donating to charity. They then identified personal strengths that included problem-solving, time management, teamwork and leadership.
The exercises are changing how some students communicate beyond Wyatt’s classroom.
Argelia, a senior, said she has improved her grades by speaking more often with teachers, asking classmates questions and approaching the school office when she needs assistance. She also participates more in group work and sometimes takes the lead.
Senior Christine said she previously struggled to speak with others or address groups. Regular interaction in Wyatt’s class has made her feel more open and confident. She has also developed professional contacts and is preparing to begin an internship with the City of Alexandria.
Yasin said the lessons produced a similarly concrete result for him. After struggling to receive job interviews, he applied Wyatt’s techniques and landed a job the first time he used them.
The effect extended beyond employment, he said. Learning to express himself clearly and speak respectfully helped him become both a stronger communicator and a better person.
Through Career and Technical Education programs, Fairfax County Public Schools aims to equip students with practical workplace abilities before graduation. Wyatt’s students are already putting those lessons to work, carrying stronger communication skills from the classroom into interviews, internships and first jobs.