How to make the most out of your work placement!

10 tips to make the most out of your work placement

1. Be informed: Find out the primary responsibilities of the job so that you can do your research on things you need to know. Understand your limitations and adhere to the work placement rules and guidelines.
2. Dress appropriately: Find out if your work placement has a dress code and who will arrange the dress (yourself or provided by the work placement). Dress as per work placement code. Even if your placement doesn’t have a dress code, make sure you dress appropriately. This includes clean and tidy dress code.
3. Arrive on time: Applies everywhere! Your work supervisors have scheduled a time for your induction and planned activities for you, arrive on time. It is better to arrive at least 15 minutes before scheduled arrival time. It is smart to look up the placement on map and check your transportation options, drive time and parking options.
4. Set goals: Goal setting can help you make the most out of your placement. It helps you plan, stay focused and measure your achievements at the end of your placement.
5. Ask questions: Work placement is a learning experience. Your supervisors have a wealth of knowledge and experience; however, might not realise you need assistance unless you ask for help. Asking questions also shows you are curious and interested to learn and your supervisors will be more willing to help. This is another great way to make the most out of your work placement. Go ahead, ask questions and never miss the opportunity to learn.
6. Hang around for lunch: It’s nice for supervisors and students to get to know each other in a less formal setting.
7. Take notes: When you learn something new or find something interesting and want to learn more, take note. In your spare time, go through your notes and research. This is a great way to learn at your work placement. Pay attention to your experiences, think about them, and note them as well. Your experienced might turn out to be your finest interview narrative one day. The key is to keep track of all the details.
8. Share your ideas and be open to opportunities: A new person brings fresh perspective, don’t hesitate to share your ideas and be willing to take constructive feedbacks. Be open to taking up the opportunities that arrive your way. You can learn from every task you perform or every conversation you have with your team members.
9. Ask for feedback: Feedback is very important. It is motivating, provides opportunities to improve and help us know if you are moving in the right direction, towards your goal. Some supervisors will be excellent at providing you with both positive and constructive comments, while others may be less so. By asking for feedback, your supervisors will know how essential it is to you and will start providing feedback.
10. Take care of your health: Your health is your most important asset. So eat well, exercise regularly and rest well. When you are healthy, you will feel good! You will be more present at work and learn more.

It is good to keep in touch with your work placement supervisors and colleagues. Don’t forget to thank people for their contributions and let them know how they influenced your life and career. We hope these tips will help you make the most out of your work placement experience.

Be present and enjoy the experience! Good luck.