How can I land my dream apprenticeship or job?
Elorm Fiavor
Getting the apprenticeship or job of your dreams might seem challenging but having a plan makes it easier to see your path.
Read this article for some simple steps you can follow to land your dream opportunity.
My Story
I am Elorm and I am currently doing a Digital Marketing Apprenticeship at a healthcare agency.
I really struggled to decide between going to university, working, or choosing an apprenticeship.
The choice, of course, is yours – but these are my reasons for choosing an apprenticeship. I thought I wouldn’t enjoy sitting in a big room listening to lectures, moving from home and just getting into student loan debts. I learn better by practicing what I am learning and with my career goals and life plan, I would rather work, learn and get my degree hence why I choose an apprenticeship.
Finding an apprenticeship can seem like a daunting task. There are so many options out there and it can be difficult to know where to start. However, with the right mindset and approach, it can be easier than you think.
Here are some tips to get you started:
1.Do Your Research
Before you start looking for job offers or apprenticeships, it’s important to do your research.
Take some time to think about what kind of work you’re interested in and what companies or industries you might like to work in. This will help you determine if they are a good fit for you and if you would enjoy working there. You can use this tool to find apprenticeships in your area in Greater Manchester, as well as start researching which level would be good for you.
Researching also includes understanding the job market and what employers are looking for. You can find job listings on job boards, company websites, and social media platforms. By knowing what employers are seeking, you can tailor your resume and cover letter to meet those needs. Use apprenticeship companies to help you find roles and really try everything!
2. Build Your Skills
Building your skills is crucial to landing a job or apprenticeship.
Consider taking courses, attending workshops, or gaining experience through internships or volunteer work. This will help you stand out from other candidates and show potential employers that you are dedicated to your field.
You can also build your skills by learning new software, taking online courses and courses on professional development, and attending webinars.
Make use of any free events, training, or courses that are made available to you.
3. Strong CV
A strong CV and cover letter are essential to landing a job or apprenticeship. Make sure your resume highlights your skills, education, and experience and tailor it to the specific job you are applying for. Your cover letter should be customized to the company and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position.
My tip as to why I got every offer and even rejected based on the employer thinking “I am too experienced” for the role was a combination of two things: taking every opportunity to learn and add to my cv and secondly having a CV that is eye-catching and stands out (minimalistic and modern).
Make sure your CV and cover letter are easy to read and free from errors. Use bullet points to highlight your accomplishments and keep your wording concise.
4. Practice Your Interview Skills
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with practice, you can improve your skills and feel more confident.
Research common interview questions and practice your answers with friends or family members. This will help you feel more comfortable during the actual interview.
You can also practice your interview skills by attending mock interviews or participating in online interview practice sessions. This will help you get feedback on your performance and identify areas where you need to improve.
Always remember to stay positive, stay focused, keep an open mind, and you’ll be on your way to a successful career in no time!
5. Network
Networking is a crucial part of finding a job or apprenticeship. Attend career fairs, industry events, and job fairs to meet professionals in your field. This can make valuable connections that can lead to job opportunities.
Networking can also help you learn about job openings that may not be advertised. By meeting people in the industry, you may be able to find out about job openings before they are posted publicly. This can give you a competitive edge and increase your chances of getting hired.
Remember you’ve got this! Keep trying, there are times it seems hard and impossible, but I made it and many have and so will you!
Find out more
Get support with your journey from Career Connect Manchester.
Use GMACS to find apprenticeships and other opportunities in Greater Manchester.
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