The importance of job shadowing

As you are fast approaching the end of your high school year, it has become crucial to decide what you want to study or which career path you want to dive into.

Job shadowing is something you should definitely consider because this will give you a clear insight in the career you consider getting into.

So, what is job shadowing? Well, it is a type of on-the-job training where an employee learns from a more experienced colleague by following them and observing them.

This can help you find out whether you are a good fit for the job or career. You can see the hard and soft skills needed as well as how demanding or stressful the job can be.

Most shadowing opportunities last just for a full working day but sometimes it might be for a few days - it depends on the schedule you have decided on with the person you decide to shadow.

Another aim of job shadowing is the transfer of skills. This depends on how long you shadow this specific person. You should be able to pick some key skills that are required for the job.

Apart from acquiring skills, this will be a great opportunity to network within the industry because you will be in spaces and exposed to individuals who work in the industry.



Here are a few tips to make your job shadowing experience memorable:



Prepare and research

Make sure you have a clear location, what time you need to arrive and the dress code.



Ask questions

You might not always be able to ask questions as and when you think of them, so make sure to write them down and ask them at a convenient time.



Focus on making a good impression

Politely introduce yourself to everyone you meet, explain why you are there and maintain eye contact.



Be proactive

Offer to help with any tasks. This will help you learn more about what skills are needed in this specific career and what to expect.



Take notes

Make sure to take notes to retain information or record your observations as voice notes.