I Have Chosen My Career And Would Love To Do Job Shadowing

Job Shadowing is an excellent idea as preparation for your future. (3-5 job shadows are better than 1, to get a wider perspective).

You need to speak to your school and parents first. They may know people or organisations who are happy to allow a job shadow. At any rate they need to make the arrangements for you for safety reasons.

But you can do the research of which companies:

are in nearby suburbs which are easy to travel to
which are in the industry you would like to go into

To find them you can:

Ask Parents and their working family and friends
Walk around your neighbourhood
Ask your Life Orientation teachers
Colleges and Universities which teach the qualification you want to acquire.
Professional organizationa which govern your field
Look online as well as online Yellow pages.

PREPARING FOR THE JOB SHADOW

A job shadow is an opportunity to investigate a specific career field so you can make an informed career decision. So read as much as you can about the field and prepare questions.

* Bring writing materials

* On the day of job shadow, dress appropriately – “business casual.”* Arrive on time.

* Try to obtain additional contact names – ask for other helpful contacts.

* Write a thank you letter as soon as possible. Mention some items that you found particularly interesting or helpful. Some contacts may ask you to stay in touch so they can monitor your career path.

Questions to ask while you are there.

* What are the main responsibilities associated with work in your field?

* Please describe a typical day, week, and month.

* What interests and skills are needed for successful employment in this field?

* What are the advantages of working in this field? Disadvantages?* What education and experiences will I need to break into the field?

* What type of work schedule does this field require?

* Are jobs in this field limited to any particular geographic area(s)?

* How do people find out about openings in your occupation?

* What is the current outlook for new graduates in this field?

* What do you see happening to your profession in the next five to ten years?

* What advice do you have for me?

Answer

Job Shadowing is an excellent idea as preparation for your future. (3-5 job shadows are better than 1, to get a wider perspective). Read more here:https://careerplanet.co.za/job_shadowing

But you can do the research of which companies are in suburbs which are easy to travel to and which are approachable. You can contact the Professional organization which governs your field and ask them for advice. Look in the Yellow pages too.