Apprenticeships: tips for success
So, you want to become an apprentice. Congratulations! Even by reading this blog you’re already demonstrating the right attitude and enthusiasm to achieve success.
Thousands of employers, including Sanctuary Personnel, offer apprenticeships. Apprenticeships are a great way to learn and earn from day one, but there’s a lot of competition for roles so it’s important to stand out.
But what do employers look for? And once you become an apprentice, how can you make the most of it?
The apprenticeship application and interview process
Most apprentices have no formal training, so hiring managers look for people who are passionate about the industry they’re applying to and will bring energy and enthusiasm to the job.
Although you might not have relevant work experience, you can show your interest and skills in other ways, including drawing on your hobbies if they are relevant. For example, if you’re applying for a role as an apprentice Recruitment Consultant, you’ll be off to a great start if you can talk about your experience of providing a great service in other areas of your life and what you learned from this.
It's also important to demonstrate some of the other day-to-day skills needed for the workplace, such as good communication skills and creative thinking. Give examples of how you have worked in a team and on your own.
In a nutshell, show your versatility.
It takes hard work to juggle work and study time, so your potential employers will be seeking people with a hunger to learn and commitment to the role.
Remember, it’s not just about what you say or your CV – body language is key in an interview. Maintain eye contact, sit upright, and speak clearly. Remember that your interviewer will be analysing how you might interact with customers and your fellow team members too.
Be patient
Apprentices can make the mistake of trying or wanting to do too much too quickly and becoming impatient when things don’t move as quickly as they’d like. You will be new to the industry and will probably be given basic tasks early on, but do not despair. Initially, it should be about learning the ropes, getting a feel for the role, and learning about the business.
Understand your role
Make sure you understand what’s expected of you. Ask your manager if you can speak to other apprentices before you start. This demonstrates great initiative (which employers will appreciate) and means you can get insight into the business and role itself.
Recognise your limitations
Be prepared to admit when things are not right for you. For instance, if recruitment isn’t your cup of tea and you feel that your skillset is better suited to compliance, then say so. It’s better to find a career path that suits you than try and force yourself into one that doesn’t. Employers will appreciate this honesty and self-awareness as a sign of professional maturity.
By being honest with yourself, this will give you time to look for an alternative career rather than spending your time working hard in a programme that you don’t enjoy.
Listen to your colleagues
As an apprentice, you are likely to meet skilled individuals who are already working in the industry. See them as your mentors and draw on their skills and expertise – their experience and advice can help you to carve out a successful career for yourself. Ask them for advice and feedback to improve your skills and boost your confidence.
Be confident and positive
Employers invest a lot of time and money in apprenticeship programmes, and they want to see a positive impact. It’s important to demonstrate your enthusiasm to learn and your interest in the business. Don’t be afraid to suggest ideas.
We’re proud to say that many apprentices who pass their apprenticeship with Sanctuary Personnel are offered a permanent position at the company.
To improve your chances, it’s important to demonstrate that you want to be here and are committed to your work. Be positive, show you can use your initiative, and consider what you bring to the team.
Earn. Learn. Grow.
If you get involved, work hard, and integrate yourself into the team, you will succeed.
Apprenticeships will set you up with the qualifications you need to enter the field and offer invaluable hands-on experience.
As one of Suffolk 100’s top 15 largest companies, we’re widely recognised for being a leader in our field and have a fantastic track record of training apprentices and watching them follow successful careers with us – it’s the perfect place to start.
Take a look at our current apprenticeship vacancies or register your interest to find out more. You can also visit our Careers Guidance page for our top tips.
