Work experience is a great opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience in a particular field or industry. It's a valuable addition to your CV and can help you stand out in the job market in the future. At Open Palm, we deliver a range of work experience throughout the year to young people.
Making a good impression during your work experience is vital to make the most of the opportunity and leave a positive impression with the employer.
Your first day is important because it can set the tone for your time there. Here are a few tips to ensure you stand out on your first day (and every day after that!):
Be punctual
Arriving on time for your first day shows that you are reliable and take your job seriously. Plan ahead to ensure that you know how to get to the workplace. Check your route at least the day before for any planned travel disruptions.
Allow yourself enough time to arrive early (by at least 15-20mins) without rushing. It also gives you some buffer in case you have trouble finding the place of work or get stuck in traffic!
If you are running late on the day of work, get in contact with the company BEFORE your start time to let them know that you are on your way and give them an estimate of how late you are. They will appreciate the heads up. This also shows that you respect the employer and the opportunity.
Dress professionally
First impressions are often based on appearance, so it's important to dress professionally for your first day at a new job. Check with the company's HR department or ask your contact at the workplace about the dress code to make sure you are dressed appropriately. If you're unsure, it's better to be smartly overdressed rather than too casual.
Even if the employer has a relaxed dress code, try to avoid extremely casual clothing such as tracksuits, hoodies and revealing clothing such as crop tops and mini-skirts.
Be positive and enthusiastic
Your first day at a new job can be overwhelming, but it's important to stay positive and enthusiastic. The team are there to help and support you.
Show your co-workers and bosses that you are excited to be there and ready to learn and contribute to the team. You can do this by paying attention, asking questions and attending meetings on time.
Be a good listener
Your work experience is a great opportunity to learn as much as you can about the company, its culture and your new role. Be a good listener and ask questions to clarify any information that you don't understand.
When someone is speaking or presenting, make sure that your body language is showing that you're engaged. This includes; good eye contact with the speaker, avoiding distractions on your phone and staying awake! (Yes, we know it can be tempting to drift off, but this doesn't leave a good impression). If you're feeling sleepy, stand up and walk around if possible or get up stretch your legs at the next break.
Be proactive and take initiative
Show that you're eager to contribute and willing to take on new tasks and responsibilities. Ask for additional work if you have completed your assigned tasks and offer to help others if they need it.
In conclusion, making a good impression is crucial for setting the tone for your time at the company. By being punctual, dressing professionally, staying positive and enthusiastic, listening and taking initiative, you can show your new co-workers and bosses that you are a valuable addition to the team. It could also lead to a potential job in the future if you perform well!
For more employability guidance and access to the work experience we offer through Open Palm, check out out free accredited course WYZ For Work below: