Job shadowing is a good career exploration activity that provides a chance to spend time with a professional presently working in your career field of interest. Job shadowing offers a possibility to see what it is actually like working in a particular job. Not just do job shadowers get to analyze the day-to-day activities of someone already employed in the industry you’re fascinated in, job shadowers get a chance to have their queries answered.

Locate Your Career Options

Career exploration is the second phase of the career planning procedure. Once the first phase of self-assessment is completed, it is then time for you to learn more about the vast array of career options that presently exist. Of course, the internet provides a multitude of resources from which you can learn about careers. O’Net OnLine, The Occupational Outlook Handbook, and WetFeet are just three of the offerings. You can also observe the Career Services Office at your college to see if they can recommend additional resources.

In addition to reading about the career options that exist, acquiring exposure and first-hand experience through job shadowing (as well as internships) can make the difference between assuming what a possible career would be like and experiencing it first-hand by working on-site.

Tips to Snag a Job Shadowing Experience

First, check with your college to see if they offer a formal job shadowing program through their Career Services Office. If not, career counselors can be an enormous assistance in either helping you find a potential job shadowing opportunity or pointing you in the right direction. The alumni of your college might also know of businesses (either large or small) that offer job shadowing and government agencies often offer job shadowing programs for students. Do not be shy about going direct and reaching out to any organization that interest you to see if there is someone presently working in your career field of interest who would be interested in hosting a job shadower.

Even it’s for a few days over the summer or during one of your college breaks the experience would be helpful.

Tips to get Ready for Your job Shadow Position

You need to make certain you make a good first impression so be sure to check out the dress code beforehand. If you are in contact with your job shadow sponsor, do not hesitate to inquire about the appropriate dress code for your department or team. Because job shadowing is similar to information interviewing, preparing a list of questions beforehand is essential to getting the most out of the experience. Once the shadowing experience is over, immediately send out a thank you note that highlights what you enjoyed (and learned) the most and express your gratitude to the job shadow sponsor who took the time to work with you.

Job Shadowing for Career Changers

Job shadowing can also be a great path for those in the procedure of changing careers. Not merely can a job shadow provide more information than you’ll find online, it offers a first-hand look at the culture of the organization. The importance of a good cultural fit can’t be underscored enough. In addition to possessing the relevant knowledge and skills to successfully completing a job, fitting in with the overall culture and getting along with team members is crucial to not only your success but happiness.

Career changers possess a lot of transferable qualities that they can bring to a new job. Although, relying on the nature of the change, additional training or education may be required.