Apprenticeship Tips...

sjohnson93 · Apr 13, 2013

I'm about to start my electrical apprenticeship a week on Monday. I'm very excited but also a tad nervous. Was just wondering if anybody has any tips etc for me to ensure I really make a good impression at the firm I'll be working for. Anything would be great! THANKS!

Essexboy7 · Apr 13, 2013

Just show some interest mate.If you dont nobody will be interested in teaching you anything.Also dont spend every spare minute playing with your phone and dont walk round with headphones in all day listening to music.When i see apprentices doing that i just want to kick them in the nuts.It really annoys me that they dont realize the great chance they have got when so many kids are on the dole with no hope.Then again it may just be because i am old and miserable!

Also i dont know if your firm are supplying you with tools but if they dont try and buy one new tool per week or the more expensive ones buy one every couple of weeks.The sparks will appreciate that i guarantee you

Good luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sintra · Apr 13, 2013

Agree keep the mobile AWAY it sets a bad impression. Always show that you are willing and if you have nothing to do brush and tidy up the work area without having to be told. Know what time and what way your gaffer takes his tea and again get it made without being asked. Get to know the tools of the trade as quickly as you can and anticipate what the gaffer will need next. Be to work 5 minutes early every day as this shows keenness.

Tesla1980 · Apr 13, 2013

And understand just how lucky you are and dont stuff it up good luck mate

TaffyDuck · Apr 13, 2013

As the others have said its all about making the right impression.

1. stubble is NOT a good look.
2. Arrive at work clean and tidy. You are representing the company
3. Be first at work and last away from work
4. Listen and if you dont understand ask. We all prefer to be asked a question rather than have to put right a silly mistake that could have been easily avoided.
5. Expect to be given a hard time sometimes. Its not personal but if the guy(s) you`re working with are under pressure you may get some fall out. That is life.
6. Look for work. Keep your hands out of your pockets. There is ALWAYS something to do.
7. Mobile`s are for bait time
8. Talk to the guys at bait time, some can actually be quite interesting
9. Learn to make good tea.
10. Expect to be knackered, you`ll get used to it. But at first it can be very tiring.

And lastly enjoy yourself, have a laugh and a joke on site. Nobody likes working with a misery guts.

Good luck

londonlec · Apr 13, 2013

Time keeping and attitude is what your employer will look at.

44ALLAN · Apr 13, 2013

Volunteer for everything...........never say no.

When something breaks and its about to be thrown out..... take it to bits to see how it works and why it broke

RyanCheetham · Apr 13, 2013

And take photos of as much as you can, not only will it help with your portfolio but one day you will look back on them and it will remind you how to do things you may have forgotten as you will be learning so much you are bound to forget a couple things

stuartcourt · Apr 13, 2013

Never moan you are there to learn but also to do the **** jobs it will not be that way forever, you might not think anyone notices but you will soon be part of the team and learn a great trade if you listen to all the comments above.

TaffyDuck · Apr 13, 2013

RyanCheetham said:
And take photos of as much as you can, not only will it help with your portfolio but one day you will look back on them and it will remind you how to do things you may have forgotten as you will be learning so much you are bound to forget a couple things

And it will remind you how useless you were ;-)

Don`t get caught up in the idea that some apprentices have after a few months that they know what they are talking about. They don`t. I have seen more times than I care to mention a 19 year old telling everyone how good he is then falling flat on his face. Nobody expects you to know much, unless you big yourself up. Pride comes before a fall as they say.

RyanCheetham · Apr 13, 2013

And buy a distinctive mug otherwise someone else on site will have it away

stuartcourt · Apr 13, 2013

And stay with this forum (I have only just found it but wish I knew about it years ago) there really is smart guys who can answer anything on here between them and you never stop learning

guest119 · Apr 13, 2013

All as above and be very aware, sellf concious even, that body language speaks louder than words.
On the phone or leaning against a door frame or hands in pockets or walking as though you are not going from A to B or getting in with a bad crowd and being led into slipping away early etc etc.
All the best behaviour can be second nature once you are into it without being or seeming subservient.
Your gaffer sees more than you will realise.

Boydy