Work Shadowing Scheme
What is work shadowing?
Work shadowing is an opportunity for you to connect with or "shadow" a business professional who has specific knowledge about an occupation or career in which you are interested. Shadowing opportunities last for one day and you will observe responsibilities and tasks associated with their career and have the opportunity to ask questions about the knowledge, skills, talents, and level of education required for the job. While the purpose of work shadowing is to gather career related information and expand your networking contacts, it also allows you to build interviewing skills, become aware of trends in the field and see workforce technologies in action. Multiple work shadowing experiences may be arranged to allow you to explore a variety of career paths.
Does work shadowing really work?
Yes! Work Shadowing works because most people:
- Enjoy talking about their jobs and career fields.
- Are flattered that you ask their advice to assist with your career and future.
- Are empathetic about career transitions because they have experienced them.
- Like to assist others because it makes them feel good.
Why should I participate in the Work Shadowing Scheme?
A work shadowing experience may:
- Present up-to-date facts about an occupation that can assist in your decision making.
- Inform you about the skills and experience required for certain jobs.
- Help you develop your business etiquette and increase your commercial awareness.
- Provide valuable networking contacts to utilize when conducting your actual job search.
- Assist in developing communication skills and self-confidence by talking with professional people in a more relaxed work environment.
- Expose you to occupational "buzzwords" unique to the career field of your choice.
- Give you an edge in future interviews by providing inside knowledge not known by your competition.