Recommend quals before going self employed

[wilson1]

Hi guys. I've just finished the C&G 2365 level 2 in electrical installation in Nottingham college. In September I start my second year (level 3.) Next June I plan to try to find a company who I willing to take on a newie. Once I've gained some experience I eventually plan on working for myself.

There seems to be an endless list of qualifications available or recommended by different providers.

Can anyone recommend a list of the quals I need before i go out looking for work by myself. Ie: P.A.T JIB NVQ etc. What are the courses I will need to atleast get through the door?

Thanks

 

[Maddison]

The biggest qualification you need mate is experience. Can't buy that one unfortunately . Follow the NVQ and work under someone for a few years

 

[DRG]

As Maddison has said experience is a major factor. I would continue until you get your NVQ level 3 completed whilst attempting to get experience along the way. The Inspection & Testing exams would also be beneficial once you have completed your NVQ level 3 BUT you will really struggle to pass without any real world experience.

You're on the right path though!

 

[SparkyJoe]

Half the qualifications mean nothing, you need to be competent in what you are doing. I would hate to be the customer who rings you.

 

[davesparks]

Recommended qualifications before going self employed are a completed apprenticeship and then a couple of years subsequent to that working as an electrician for a company.

 

[Razzmond]

I came out of college last year with the 2330 Level 2 & 3 and thought I was the ********.

Got into the field and realised that my college course counted for precisely FA. Experience has taught me more then college ever could. Watching the pros while they work their magic was an invaluable tool in my tool box.

All I'm doing is working as a mate until I get to the point where I feel consistently confident to approach jobs solo, so maybe that's a good way to go?

 

[PEG]

Good honest quote pal. The college will count,though,so don't feel like you wasted that time,because you didn't. The qualifications that C&G do not offer with regard to being self-employed,are in subjects such as smelling a rat,weighing up customer,or otherwise,in the first 5 minutes,deciphering truth from fiction,and juggling several balls whilst walking and talking...but go for it,it's not a career,it's a floopin' adventure! :aureola:

 

[Razzmond]

Yeah I agree with PEG. Think I didnt word my OP correctly! The course content is useful, but theres so much more to the job then the college can teach. Problem solving in particular is something I enjoy observing from the pros. I have now learnt to not rush my experience.

But dont get me wrong, pushing nearly two grand into the college course and cracking on was the best investment I ever did (I know a few others who will say the same!) Also that sense of pride when you get your first decent set of tools is hard to beat too :coolgleamA:

As a fellow mate, I just advise you to grab as much experience as you can. Ask questions, looking stupid in the process if you must. Someday, you'll be answering those questions to someone else!