Making the most of your apprenticeship

Leaving school or college and becoming an apprentice can be difficult – but you’re only just beginning your career and you want to make sure it gets off to the best start!

You’ve done the easy part: finding an apprenticeship placement. Now it’s time to do the hard part and learn to be effective in your new role, so you can continue into successful career.

That’s why we’ve put together this list of hints and tips to help you make the most out of your first few weeks, settle in quickly and begin your progression. Follow our advice and we’re sure you’ll do just fine!

1. Ask lots of questions

You’re there to learn – so make sure you don’t miss an opportunity to take on new skills and information.

Asking questions of your colleagues and employers will show your enthusiasm, and help you pick up the role and required knowledge much quicker – showing your new employer just how valuable you can be.

2. Try new things

If you go into your apprenticeship with an open mind, you won’t be so surprised when things don’t quite turn out as you expected. So if there’s a task that needs doing, even you didn’t expect it to be part of your role, volunteer for it.

Remember, every new thing you do, you’ll acquire a new skill and gain a better understanding of the wider job, company and industry. Even if you get moved to another division or department, take on the new aspects of your role willingly and be flexible – you never know, you might come across something you enjoy more and change your career path.

3. Keep up the good work

Don’t let yourself become overwhelmed with the job and forget about your studies. An apprenticeship requires a lot of dedication and hard work, both on site and off.

Your new colleagues might have been in your exact position, so if you’re struggling to balance your work, ask them for some pointers! They might be able to help you understand the new concepts you’re learning and put them into your coursework too. So don’t forget – use your new team, they’re there to support you!

4. Start networking

Building a network of people in your industry will help you in the future when you are looking to progress your career – and it’s actually really easy to do. Just make a little extra effort with your colleagues, and people that you meet during your working day.

Finding other apprentices at your company will also be invaluable, not only for support while you’re training,  but you never know where they’ll end up, and you might want their help in the future, or some insider info on a job opportunity!

5. Everybody makes mistakes!

In your first few months, you will make mistakes, so don’t be surprised when something doesn’t go the way you thought! Just make sure you don’t dwell on the mistake and don’t let it knock your confidence.

Work hard to resolve the problem, never try to hide it (this will make it much worse!) and learn from it. Think about any mistakes as a chance to learn, and if you are unsure of how to proceed with a task, ask for help from more experienced colleagues or managers.

Remember you are there to learn, and asking questions is all part of your progression.

6. Keeping time

This might be one of the most important tips we can share with you, so listen carefully – don’t be late!

It’s essential you make a great first impression, and if you want to be a valued member of the team, don’t leave people waiting on you. It’s a sure-fire way to annoy your new managers and colleagues, so check your alarm is set and if you know your bus is regularly late, catch an earlier one.

7. Know-it-all

We’re sure you’ll be keen to soak up all the info you can, and what better opportunity to learn the ropes of your placement that by listening to any advice or tips from your experienced co-workers.

Even if you feel like you know it all already, still listen to the information being shared with you, you might learn a better way of working. And, at the very least, you will come across as eager to learn – enthusiasm is always a good trait for an apprentice.

8. Have some confidence

Our final tip is to be confident.

Even if at first it all seems a bit overwhelming, after a few months you’ll start to get your feet under the table and will begin to understand the wider workings of your new company. Don’t let the fact you’re the new guy or girl hold you back – so make sure you join in team discussions, volunteer for new projects and get involved with social activities.

Health and Safety Training Ltd

If you’re thinking about becoming an apprentice, but aren’t sure where to start, or what you need to do –  simply get in touch with the team at Health and Safety Training Ltd. We’ll be happy to discuss your ideas, and get you on the right path!