From Shaheen Gul, Academy Recruitment Specialist at Roq
Receiving your GCSE and A Level results is an exciting moment as it enables you to begin planning for your future career. Many young individuals may feel uncertain about the career or industry they wish to pursue and might opt for Higher Education as a safe option. However, an increasing number of young people are now selecting an alternative route, such as apprenticeships, particularly those leading to a degree. This is because apprenticeships offer a unique chance to attain hands-on experience in the industry, earn a degree, and commence a career with a company that offers progression and job security.
The UK is in the midst of a digital skills crisis. There are simply not enough people to fill the technical roles that businesses currently have. In fact, during a recent business networking event organised by Roq, employers from diverse industries shared their struggles in finding the right candidates to fill their job openings. They emphasised that possessing a willingness to learn, excellent communication skills and strong soft skills were more important than technical expertise which can be taught on the job. So, if you are interested in working in a particular sector and are open to learning new things, an apprenticeship can prove to be a valuable opportunity for your career advancement.
If you are considering an apprenticeship at 16 or 18+, here are some helpful pointers to keep in mind:
• Increase your chances of securing a job, by conducting thorough research on the company you are interested in. By following them on social media and LinkedIn, you can gain valuable insights into their corporate culture and values. Additionally, creating a LinkedIn profile can help you connect with employers and professionals in your industry.
• When filling out the application form, make sure to provide unambiguous and concise answers. Be sure to proofread your responses meticulously for any spelling and grammar errors, as these can detract from the overall quality of your application.
• If you are asked to do a telephone interview, it is important to be prepared with clear and thoughtful responses. Similarly, if you attend an assessment centre, be at ease, be yourself, and demonstrate your soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership.
• During a final interview, it is crucial to ensure that you comprehend the role and the opportunities for advancement. Having some knowledge about the employer’s industry can also be beneficial in showing your interest and commitment to the job.
If pursuing an apprenticeship is something of interest, the best advice would to be persevere in the search for the right opportunity for you, do your research, and remember, failure is a part of the journey to success.
