Applying for an apprenticeship
The application process may seem like the first hurdle, but it’s also the first impression, so research, reread, redraf... then send!
F
ound an apprenticeship that interests you? Get your application going! Planning ahead will help and, although you may just want to get this over
with, drafs - a couple in fact - are always a good idea! When is the closing date for your application?
Make that your first milestone and work backwards so you’re well prepared... If it’s sooner than makes you comfortable, don’t be deterred, but do start! It’s impossible to start too early (even if you are waiting to see what grades you received) – a thrown-together application will definitely show. And remember – drafts (did I mention those?) are incredibly useful. Take care to check whether there are any specific instructions – such as word count – and make sure you adheres to them; it’s a good indicator that you’re able to follow instructions to the letter (this is no time to go off plan!). Make sure you have covered all the criteria mentioned in the application, whether that’s qualifications, interests or relevant experience. If there are areas you cannot actively prove experience in, you can state that you hope that the apprenticeship will equip you with these skills. A good rule of thumb is to examine the job or
person description to find out what qualities the employer is seeking. Refer to these in your application and explain how you can demonstrate these qualities. So if the day-to-day apprenticeship will be customer- facing or involve keeping up-to-date records for instance, use key words and phrases to reflect experience and relevance. So, for example, mention customer care if you have worked in hospitality or retail, or been tasked with cashing up, to show you are trustworthy and can be relied on to be thorough and accurate with tasks. Finally, you can always follow up with a phone
call to check that the application has been received, but bear in mind that it’s a workplace and your potential employer will be in touch in due course, so don’t harass them or worry if you don’t hear back straight
Applying ‘on spec’ What if you just don’t see apprenticeships at the sort of employer/or in the kind of sector that you’re interested in? It will show initiative and passion to send a ‘speculative’ application if a company’s apprenticeships are not advertised, where you reach out and make contact to ask if there’s any kind of opportunity available. This kind of
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