Code of Conduct

GDYT PARTICIPANT CODE OF CONDUCT

Goal: I will set a goal to improve my work readiness skills this summer. I understand that I may be evaluated at the end of my GDYT Summer Experience, and I will strive to improve my performance throughout the summer by completing the work assigned to me.

Participation:  Regular participation is an important factor to my overall performance. I understand that I am expected to participate and complete my assignments.

Appropriate use of Technology: I understand that I am expected to use the Internet responsibly, following basic Internet etiquette standards. These include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Use the Internet and platforms connected to GDYT appropriately. I will not use abusive communication, cyberbully, harass, intimidate or threaten others.

• Use appropriate language. This means I will not use curse words, vulgarities, or any other inappropriate language.

• Keep personal information private. I will not reveal personal addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers or other identifying personal information.

• Respect the privacy of others. I will not "Hack" into systems to manipulate data or other users.

• Maintain equipment that may be assigned or loaned to me. I will not intentionally disrupt or harm borrowed technology or equipment.

• Engage only in legal activities. I will not engage or participate in any unlawful activities.

Pay Agreement: I understand that I will be compensated according to the GDYT payment policy and pay schedule based on benchmarks achieved or hours worked, properly documented, and approved by my supervisor.

Grounds for Dismissal: I understand that any of the following may be grounds for dismissal from the GDYT summer experience:

• Ÿ  Non-participation

• Ÿ  Misuse of program technology

• Ÿ  Falsifying information to meet program requirements, benchmarks and/or hours worked

• Ÿ  Any threat or act of violence toward another individual

• Ÿ  Any aggressive behavior, or any form of sexual harassment

• Ÿ  Failure to exhibit self-respect and respect for others

• Ÿ  Any stealing or possession of stolen property during any program activity

• Ÿ  Any behaviors that may be considered prejudicial against race, socioeconomic differences, disabilities, religion, or sexual orientation

I understand and fully agree to abide by the above rules during any activity sponsored by Grow Detroit’s

Young Talent. I also acknowledge receipt of this agreement.

PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS

We want you to have the best possible work experience. To help make that happen, it is vital that you pay close attention to the expectations and the rules of the GDYT program.

The following sections outline the program expectations. It’s simple -- follow the rules! Be confident and ask questions when you don’t know. Put your best foot forward and remain dedicated to doing your best at all times!

Dress Appropriately

Like many jobs, the GDYT program has a dress code. You will be provided with a program shirt. These shirts are the program uniform and cannot be altered in any way. They are designed to identify you with the program. Therefore, you are required to wear the shirts during work unless otherwise approved by your supervisor. As an alternative, you may wear a shirt of the same color. However, alternate shirts cannot have any logos or printing on the front or back.

Listed below are other forms of clothing that you CANNOT wear on the job:

• Non-prescription sunglasses

• Hats (unless required and approved)

• Scarves or “du-rags”

• Any inappropriate headwear

• Flashy jewelry

• Flip flops

• Low cut, sheer, or see-through tops or shirts

• Halters/Tube/Crop Tops

• Sagging Pants

• Sweatpants/Joggers

• Leggings/Yoga Pants

• Shorts (unless approved)

• Pajamas

• Any clothing with offensive words or statements

• Form-fitting dresses and skirts

• Spaghetti strapped dresses and tops

• Mini skirts

All participants must adhere to the dress code unless otherwise specified by your supervisor.

Avoidance of Workplace Violence

We are committed to maintaining a safe and non-violent environment for all program participants, staff, and employers. All program worksites are to be free from any acts or words resembling the following:

• • Threatening behavior (verbal or physical)

  • Harassment (of any kind)

  • Intimidation

  • Abuse (verbal, emotional, or physical)

  • Stalking (actual or virtual)

  • Bullying/Cyberbullying

These and similar behaviors are considered serious offenses that will not be tolerated. This means acts like these will result in immediate termination.

Making a Good First Impression

Have you heard the saying, “You only get one chance to make a first impression”?

Your summer work experience has been designed to help you to make a lasting first impression on employers. You not only represent yourself, but other youth as well.  GDYT can enhance your educational, career and leadership skills. This opportunity provides work readiness training, education and enrichment opportunities, and valuable on-the-job work experience.

Putting your best foot forward by learning the rules and doing your best to be a positive worker is one key to lasting success. Listed below are some helpful tips for making your work experience with the program a positive first step in a long-term, successful career journey.

• Be reliable and punctual. Arrive to work on time and return from lunch and breaks on time.

• Call your supervisor if you will be late or absent from work.

• Dress appropriately.

• Be neat and clean.

• Be polite and considerate of others.

• Learn and follow the worksite rules. Show proper behavior and conduct at all times.

• Develop good communication skills. Learn to express your thoughts professionally.

• Ask questions and understand completely before doing a task.

• Follow directions carefully.

• Accept and respect supervision and constructive criticism of your work.

• Have a positive attitude about work and your job.

• Cooperate with your employer and co-workers.

• Be mindful of your emotions. Manage yourself well.

• Assist your co-workers when needed. Give a little extra.

• Be self-motivated to do a good job.

• Have a strong desire to learn and do the job right.

• Be flexible with people.

• Maintain good attendance by going to work on your scheduled work days.

• Be a positive representative of the GDYT program.

Always Try Your Best – Misbehavior has Consequences

NOTE: PLEASE AVOID PERSONAL PHONE CALLS AND TEXTING DURING WORK!!!

While at your worksite you should only use your cell phones or other electronic devices in the event of an emergency. Your phone and other electronic devices should be securely stored and out of sight. Unnecessary use of your cell phone and other electronic devices is unprofessional. Following this guideline eliminates the possibility of social calls, texts, Internet browsing and gaming that could take away from program time and work experience.

Quitting Your Job

We understand that in the real world, things do not always work out perfectly. This includes the need sometimes to quit our jobs.

If you decide to end your work experience early, you should give fair notice to the worksite supervisor. Also, your notice to quit should be in writing.

Workplace Communication Tips

Appropriate communication in the workplace is critical. This includes what you say and how you behave.

Verbal Communication - Watch what you say!

• Do not use profanity or offensive language while on the job.

• Always be polite, courteous, and respectful to everyone you interact with (your colleagues, your supervisor, customers, etc.).

• Speak clearly and loud enough that the person you are addressing can hear you, but low enough that you are not disturbing others around you.

• When answering the telephone, be professional and friendly.

Non-Verbal Communication - Watch what you do!

• Your posture is important. Stand and sit up straight (slouching, leaning back in your chair, or folding your arms will make you appear uninterested).

• Do not fall asleep while on the job. If you need a break, ask your supervisor. Fresh air or a brief walk may help.

• Do not wear headphones or listen to music while on the job.

• Avoid excessive cell phone use (texting, phone calls, Internet browsing, social media, etc.).

• Make eye contact and don’t walk away when someone is speaking to you.

Other Issues

If a problem arises at your worksite you should discuss it with your supervisor first. If they cannot resolve the problem or if you don’t feel comfortable speaking with them, contact your GDYT Program Partner or the Connect Detroit GDYT Program Office at (313) 967-5887 or the DESC Program Office at (313) 664-5575.