In more recent years apprenticeships have become more popular than ever, with this being said, it is getting harder to secure a place with apprenticeship vacancies attracting a high number of applicants. This is why it is important to stand out as an applicant and sell yourself!
Here are a few top tips to help you gain your dream role and stand out in the corporate world:
Make your CV shine
Online Training courses
Firstly, you may not have work experience in the sector that you are hoping to gain a role in, but this doesn’t mean that you can’t show your passion through self-teaching. Online courses are a great way to learn about the industry you want to work in, and can help you build up qualifications on your CV. These are also a great talking point for interviews where you can highlight your passion for the industry!
Interviews: Tips & tricks
It is common for apprentices to have no previous work experience in the industry they are applying for, which is why employers tend to recruit candidates based on desired personal qualities for the role. Therefore, it is a good idea for you to prepare answers which show that you can work well in work-based scenarios using your interpersonal skills. After all practice makes perfect, here are some practice questions and answers to help you get started: https://www.allaboutschoolleavers.co.uk/school-leaver-options/apprenticeships/apprenticeship-interviews-practice-questions
Networking: building connections
Social media is a great way to chat to other apprentices and gain more experience from people in the industry. LinkedIn is a platform for online employment where you can build a professional profile and connect with industry experts. Check out some tips for networking below:
- Ask your network for help
- Connect with people you know on LinkedIn
- Add online courses to your profile
- Create a professional summary on your page to get more views
For more help click this article here
The best websites to find apprenticeships
Why choose an apprenticeship over going to university
Undoubtedly University can be a great route for the right type of person but if it’s not for you then an apprenticeship could be an alternative path. Here is Prospect’s take on the reason why some people may choose this route over uni:
“Apprenticeships appeal to those looking for alternatives to university as they take a more practical approach to learning. You’ll focus on training for a specific career and learn your trade by actually doing the job. You’ll gain hands-on experience and have the opportunity to apply your skills immediately. ” Prospects
Top universities also highlight the benefits of an apprenticeship over university:
“One advantage of undertaking an apprenticeship over a university education is that you will be earning money while studying. In the UK, if you are under 19, this will be £3.90 per hour minimum. If you’re over 19, this will be the National Minimum Wage (at the time of writing this is £6.15 for 18 to 20-year olds, £7.70 for 21 to 24-year olds, and £8.21 for 25 and over). If you’re doing a degree apprenticeship, the cost of your course will be divided amongst the course providers and the government, meaning that you will complete your degree and be completely debt free. However, this means that degree apprentices don’t qualify for student loans.” Topuniversities.com
Find out more
The Apprenticeship Network website have tonnes of useful information on apprenticeships, from help on finding the right course for you to tips for your first week in your new role. Head to our blog page using the link below to find out more information with posts from apprentices, coaches and employers. Good luck!
