The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) and Augusta Technical College instruct and evaluate students on their work ethic in all programs of study. Ten work ethic traits have been identified and defined as essential for student success. These traits are as identified:
- APPEARANCE: Displays appropriate dress, grooming, and hygiene.
- ATTENDANCE: Attends class; arrives/leaves on time; notifies instructor in advance of planned absences.
- ATTITUDE: Demonstrates a positive outlook; demonstrates mannerly behavior; follows chain of command.
- CHARACTER: Displays loyalty, honesty, trustworthiness, dependability, reliability, initiative, self-discipline, and self-responsibility.
- COMMUNICATION: Displays appropriate nonverbal, verbal, and written skills.
- COOPERATION: Handles criticism, conflicts, and complaints appropriately; works well with others.
- ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS: Prioritizes and manages time and resources effectively; demonstrates flexibility in handling change; follows directions and procedures for the work environment.
- PRODUCTIVITY: Completes tasks assigned efficiently, effectively, and timely; demonstrates problem-solving capabilities.
- RESPECT: Tolerates other points of view; acknowledge and appreciates rights of others, has regard for diversity.
- TEAMWORK: Works collaboratively with others toward a common goal in a respectful and cooperative manner; participates appropriately as a team member.
Why Work Ethics Matter
Strong work ethics are a top concern both state wide and nationally. The Georgia Department of Education created a program— GeorgiaBEST —to educate and train students in the area of work ethics. The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that 80 percent of workers who lose their jobs do so not because of lack of occupational skills, but because of poor work ethics.