Workplace tours are an excellent way for students to gain insight into various career opportunities and understand the practical applications of their classroom learning. For employers and educators, organizing these tours can be a rewarding experience that helps bridge the gap between education and the working world. Here’s a comprehensive guide to setting up successful workplace tours. 

Setting Up the Tour 

1. Identify the Right Contact: Use resources like the RISE Employer Contact list to find the appropriate person at the business you wish to tour. Establishing a good relationship with this contact is crucial for a smooth tour setup. 

2. Security and Sign-In: Work with the business to address any security concerns or sign-in procedures. This ensures that the tour runs smoothly and safely. 

Leading the Tour 

1. Dynamic Speaker: It’s important to have a dynamic speaker to lead the tour. This person should be engaging and able to keep the group interested. 

2. Keep It Moving: Avoid lecturing and keep the group moving throughout the workplace. This helps maintain the students’ interest and energy levels. 

3. Plan Carefully: Make sure important points are covered throughout the tour. Having other employees on hand to explain their work or demonstrate what they are doing can add value. 

4. Be Genuine: Authenticity is key. Relate to the students in a genuine manner to make the experience more impactful. 

Selling Local Career Opportunities 

1. Highlight Local Careers: Stress to students that they don’t have to go far to find a rewarding career. Local businesses often offer great opportunities. 

2. Plan B: Tours can help students identify their “Plan B” in case their ideal career goal doesn’t work out. 

Potential Tour Features 

1. Virtual Reality: Incorporate Virtual Reality headsets to provide hands-on opportunities. 

2. Showcase Products: Highlight items produced at the business that students may not be aware of. 

3. Engage the Senses: Use all the senses to foster engagement during the tour. 

4. Giveaways: Provide some kind of giveaway for the students after the tour to leave a lasting impression. 

Challenges 

1. Lack of Dedicated Personnel: Often, there is no one dedicated at a business to lead or coordinate tours. 

2. Unclear Contacts: It’s not always clear who to contact at a business to set up a tour. 

3. Transportation: Transportation to the workplace can be a limiting factor. 

Alternatives to Workplace Tours 

If workplace tours are not feasible, there are alternatives.

1. Video Libraries: Utilize video libraries to showcase different types of careers. 

2. Local Repositories: Include a local repository to showcase local businesses. 

3. Mock Business Settings: Locations like Bridgeville’s “Biztown” provide mock business settings from a variety of businesses. 

For more detailed information on setting up workplace tours, you can refer to these resources

• The New York City Schools Workplace Tour Fact Sheet
• Earn and Learn Workplace Tour Guide