What is the aim of work experience?
Work experience gives you a taster of what it’s like to work in the particular industry you are
interested in and can help you decide if it’s the right path.
When you apply for jobs it can provide invaluable experience to add to your CV which could
set you above other candidates on applications and at interviews.

What will you learn?
Not only will you gain an invaluable insight into the industry you are interested in but it will help you
– Become more confident
– Become more independent
– Develop your skills

What is expected from you?
Employers won’t expect you to know it all – they are interested in your general abilities to:

– Work with others
– Communicate effectively
– Turn up on time and be reliable
– Have a positive attitude and be enthusiastic
– Use your initiative
– Manage yourself well
– Make every effort to attend your placement, if you are unable to attend make sure
you call the employer and explain why first thing in the morning!
– Show respect for your colleagues and work environment

Did you know…

42% of people on work experience were offered a job at the end of their placement – around

two thirds of people who got a job with a different employer said the sector-based work
academies helped them get the job (Gov.uk, 2015)

Tips for work experience:

• Make notes – While on your work experience placement don’t forget to make a note of what you do – this can be really useful to add to your CV and to mention in interviews.
• Make a good first impression – First impressions are hugely important, make sure you turn up on time and are suitably dressed (if in doubt, we’d recommend going smart)
• Ask questions – There’s nothing to be ashamed about when asking questions if you’re unsure, in fact, employers will respect that you have the guts to ask. But at the same time be resourceful, think first whether you can figure it out or answer it with a quick google search.
• Ask for feedback – Feedback is a really useful way to find out what you need to work on and improve and can really help your employability skills – it might be just what you need to help you succeed in your next interview! Very importantly – make sure you say thank you for the opportunity!