One of our volunteer Youth Ambassadors talks about finding a work placement through her school. Work placements help you build careers confidence – and your CV.
I’m at school and I’ve been trying to find work experience for a couple of years now. However, because of my age, they either don’t want to take me on – or just simply don’t have the insurance to. This means that when we come to find jobs at sixteen or eighteen, we don’t have enough experience to our name. Besides if employers are looking for an employee, they want us to have experience in the field.
This year at school, it is time for my compulsory work experience. It was hard deciding on a certain industry to narrow down the choices, but also I had to consider how I’d be getting there or what I could gain from the opportunity.
My top tip for researching work placements
I would recommend that when you have some choices in mind, you research the placement as much as you can. For example, look up the company online to find out more information about them, and look at their posts on social media. You can also get in touch with them through their website. They’ll be able to tell you more about your experience than your school or anyone else ever could.
Treat work placements as a gift and an opportunity, not a kick in the teeth
I know many people think of work experience as a chore because it is compulsory for some, however there are so many skills and wealth of experiences you could gain from your placement, and IT’S FREE.
This is also why you should be serious when picking your placement. Choose the right option for you and you could not only enjoy your experience but also develop your understanding of that industry. Don’t take it as a kick in the teeth.
I have yet to do my compulsory work experience, but I am looking forward to my placement. Although I am still slightly anxious, I know that it will be worth it in the end and help me get to grips with the real world of work. Wish me luck.
