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After you’ve successfully landed your apprenticeship, their are many things you need to be aware of in order to ensure it’s success. By following this set of  do’s and don’ts, you’ll be on your way to improve your study and become a successful apprentice.

DO:

• Make it to the job site on time. While it may be cool to be fashionably late when you’re out clubbing, the boss might not appreciate this sense of style. Being punctual isn’t hard, and it’s something your boss will appreciate.

• Look presentable. If you have a uniform keep it clean. Know what the dress code is, and be sure to follow it, this common curtsy shows the boss your respect, and is one less thing to worry about.

• Keep the lines of communication open. Stay in contact with your mentor, report any problems or concerns you have, and be sure to ask questions when you have them.  It’s better to ask questions now, than risk not knowing something important in the future.

• Keep important information to yourself. If you share past experiences, do so, but spare the details.  Giving out names and personal information could potentially lead to damaging results.  Remember that job confidentiality is important, and a quality valued by your employers.

• Practice. At the end of the day, take the time to reflect on what you learned. Do some additional research at home, or maybe practice your techniques around the house.  Offer a lending hand to family and friends, but know your limitations, if you aren’t confident in your abilities take the experience to the apprenticeship and discuss the situation, this will help you learn more and refine your skills.

• Hang out with co-workers. At the end of the day, go out to the pub with your co-workers. Your co-workers are a excellent resource for you, they know the inside secrets and trades that can help you grow and enhance your apprenticeship. Also, you might even have a really great time, you can gain some new friends and help you develop a more fun and relaxed working environment.

• Find a support group. Whether it’s your parents, your friends or your co-workers, having a support group is an important thing to have when undergoing an apprenticeship.  These people can help you get through the difficult days, and be there  to listen to your success stories.

• Enjoy the experience. Take the time to look around and concentrate on all the positive things your apprenticeship is giving you.

• Take a break! We aren’t designed to work 24/7, every once and awhile take a break, go down to the beach, turn on the footie match and just relax.

DON’T:

• Be afraid to ask questions. If you’re unsure about something, speak up. Don’t be afraid of not knowing something, you most likely don’t, you came to the apprenticeship to learn.  Make sure you do.

• Make assumptions. Again, if you’re unclear about something, take the time to clarify.  You boss will appreciate the honesty, and you’ll quickly grow as a worker.

• Make a bad impression. Looking sloppy, or swearing up a storm never looks good on anybody.  Mind your manners, and remember what your mum taught you before you start to make a fool of yourself.

• Get your parents/guardian involved. If you have a serious issue and you’re not sure how to resolve it, talk to your parents sure, but do not let them in any way get involved.  Your apprenticeship is your responsibility, be sure to take matters into your own hand.

• Act like you know everything. Prancing around like you already know what you’re doing doesn’t paint the prettiest  picture. Remember, you’re not the expert, they are.  Be humble and listen to what your mentors tell you.

• Get down on yourself. You’re going to have a rough day every once and awhile, but don’t let it get you too down.  remember you are learning and everyone makes mistakes, try not to focus on it too much.  dust yourself off and keep at it, you’ll thank yourself in the end.