Being offered an apprenticeship or traineeship position is an exciting moment, and it could spell the first step in your journey towards a dream career. But just because you’ve secured a role it doesn’t mean you can take your foot off the accelerator yet.
Figures from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research show around 60 per cent of apprentices and trainees complete their placements, and it takes hard work and dedication if you want to become one of them.
Are you still searching for the right apprenticeship or traineeship opportunity? Apprenticeship Central, from BUSY At Work, provides a wide array of information, FAQs and resources to help you find the best placements for your specific skillset.
The best time to make a good impression is on your first day. You may be nervous, but you’ll definitely bowl over your employers if you can hit the ground running from the outset.
As such, here are some of the most common mistakes that people make when starting a new position, as well as tips on how to avoid them.
1: Turning up late
This shouldn’t be too much of a surprise, but it’s worth mentioning because there are a number of things that could go wrong when you’re unfamiliar with your new workplace. For example, maybe you miscalculated the travel times, got lost on the way there or turned up at the wrong building or department.
Set your alarm early and always give yourself plenty of leeway in case of bad traffic or other mishaps. Even if you have to sit in a coffee shop for an hour before you start, it’s still better than turning up late.
2: Failing to ask for help
No one wants to feel like they’re pestering their colleagues, which can cause some apprentices or trainees to try doing too much on their own. Remember, employers won’t expect you to know everything when you’re training towards a qualification in a new career.
If you’re stuck or need help, ask for guidance from your supervisor or another employee. They’d much prefer you to ask and get the job done properly than risk making a costly mistake.
3: Not introducing yourself
The best way to get off on the right foot on the first day is to introduce yourself to colleagues. Be polite, friendly and remember everyone’s names!
You’ll not only learn more about the company and the different roles and departments within it, but you’ll also know who to turn to when you need help with an issue.
By Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
