MAKE ME A GROWN UP
PROGRAMME 3: ALEX
BACKGROUND
Sixth-former Alex is 16 going on 17 – in fact, he turned 17 during filming. He lives in Plymouth, has seven GCSEs and lots of friends, and has never been in trouble. An avid rapper, he wants to work in the music industry. He is devoted to Chav fashion and feels undressed without his Burberry caps, tracksuits, sweaters, trainers and jewellery. He is always on the move and finds it hard to stand still for more than a couple of seconds. Full of laddish charm, he peppers his speech with words such as 'cheers', 'mate', 'innit', 'brilliant' and 'awright'.
Strangers react badly to Alex's appearance, manner and language. He resents being treated with suspicion and complains about the security guards who follow him around. He feels misunderstood and is sick of being stereotyped, which is eroding his confidence and self-belief.
Alex says that it is other people who have the problem, not him. However, he admits to Lisa that his appearance and manner may be contributory factors. He is ready to compromise but is worried about what his friends will think if he changes his image. He needs support to move forward. The mentoring team concentrates on helping him to:
- learn how to dress appropriately for formal situations
- improve his self-presentation skills – stance, language, eye contact and so on
- identify his strengths and build a positive self-image
- practise and improve his interview techniques.
THE MAKEOVER
The makeover focuses on interview outfits and how to wear them.
PSYCHOLOGICAL EXERCISES
Selling perfume gives Alex his first taste of a work environment. It requires him to conquer his nerves and make fundamental changes to his dress, manner and speech. His anxiety leaks out and before long his body language and speech are back to where they started. Stephen offers some general advice on what individuals can do to control and change the impression they give others.
The homework tasks are designed to help Alex with his job application and interview skills. They demonstrate the need for research and thorough preparation. They also show that adequate preparation takes time and is hard work. The master class highlights what not to do in an interview and gives advice on how to overcome the problems identified.
THE FINAL CHALLENGE
Stephen sums up his advice on interview behaviour and what employers expect of interview candidates. The programme controller at a local radio station reinforces his advice.
