Bigger opportunity is slipping past mayor-elect

Brandon Johnson can reach his goal by redefining summer jobs

One of the widest planks on Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson’s campaign platform was summer jobs for youth. Now that he is practically in office, the Cook County Commissioner is full speed ahead trying to fulfill that goal, which many see is not practical-mainly because of the tight window from taking office and launching a meaningful summer jobs program.

One Summer Chicago is the youth jobs program the mayor-elect looks to have a big impact on

Johnson can quell the skeptics and reach his goal of doubling the number of youth working by expanding his vision. For decades, far too many summer jobs too often have meant giving kids something to do that seems meaningful but really keeps them from getting in the way of the “real work” being done. Sure, the young people get a paycheck, but when Fall arrives too many still lack meaningful skills, or gained any insights into future employment.

A strategy the mayor-elect might want to consider is making “soft skills” training participation actual jobs. If young people are taught (and paid) basics handshaking, looking the person you’re talking to in the eyes, how to dress in an office environment, telephone answering skills, interviewing for a job and more-they will be far better equipped for future employment than some menial task they are given because a promise was made to the mayor

Interviewing and communication skills should be wrapped into any summer jobs program

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Even by the age of 21 many people have not experienced anything beyond their neighborhoods. That too often translates into poor or improper communication skills. The soft skills training can correct that. It might result in “code switching” and that is even better.

The mayor’s office reportedly is in the midst of discussions with several business owners and CEOs about on boarding youth this summer. The success of those discussions in part will hinge on where the businesses are with their fiscal budgets. No doubt some businesses will balk at bringing unskilled young workers on board. However, if they are hired into soft skills training program, the businesses are developing a capable representative for the future; and Chicago and the students are benefiting as well.

Johnson will easily hit his target numbers if he will disabuse himself of the notion that jobs must yield a product or service and look a particular way. He can chart a new course for youth, one that will last beyond his governmental career, if he shows more than a modicum of ingenuity.