National Apprenticeship Week 2018 has been great to see so many people getting involved to spread the word on apprenticeships and the benefits that they offer.
Earlier this week, I got involved in NAW2018 by visiting a local school in Kidderminster to talk to students about apprenticeships and share my apprenticeship story.
I think that for young people it is useful for them to hear about apprenticeships from someone their age and who first hand experience.
Here are my top tips for anyone considering an apprenticeship:
Prepare to work hard
If you are considering an apprenticeship or are set to start your apprenticeship, you have to be prepared to work hard.
It won’t all be plain sailing and it can prove difficult at points balancing the academic studying side of things with your actual tasks at work. If you are prepared to put your mind to it and work hard you will succeed.
I found it really helpful to set myself goals every week or month and do my very best to reach these goals.
I am a big fan of making to-do lists to keep on top of everything I need to do, so I would definitely recommend setting to-dos with deadlines and working to meet these deadlines.
Don’t be afraid to ask ask for help
I had to learn a lot of new things when I started working for Core Tree such as how to use the scheduling software and how to talk to clients.
It probably will be a little scary when you start and you will certainly have questions – that is completely ok. It is important that you ask for help.
Your colleagues will respect you for speaking up and making the effort to understand the job properly.
Make the most of every opportunity
I have always made the most of every opportunity given to me and this my top tip for others.
Whether that is the opportunity to learn new skills, attending events or applying for awards, make the most of every opportunity so you can really get the most out of your time as an apprentice.
I would also make an effort to grow your internal profile, by volunteering in your business where possible, speaking to your advisor and colleagues when appropriate, and getting to know the staff.
Show your business exactly why they hired you and that you are a worthwhile investment.
Building your network
I was very shy when I first started but I quickly came out of my shell and developed a good level of confidence in the workplace.
When it came to speaking to new people outside of the business I was still very nervous, so I decided to start attending networking events to push myself to talk to new people and build up my confidence.
Find fun and relevant networking events in your area and make an effort to attend. I am lucky that Worcester offers so many great networking events and I have been able to meet and with other apprentices.
This is one of the best things I have done because it was great to speak to people who were also in my position and build our confidence speaking to new people together.
Offer to mentor others
I would urge you to offer to be a mentor for other apprentices in your business. You will know best about what an apprenticeship is like in your business and can offer real advice based on your experiences.
Having someone who has been through it all to go to whenever they are stuck or need advice will be really reassuring for new apprentices.
Don’t forget to get out and about to promote apprenticeships and share your story with others. By sharing our stories and experiences, we can inspire the next generation of apprentices.