When I applied for my Apprenticeship I was unemployed and applying for Account Executive Internship job after job but the main thing I was looking for was a job that provided me with 2 things.
- Job Security
- Career prospects
I wanted to find myself a job that I could feel safe in and that could give me the skills needed to work my way up within the business or progress elsewhere in the same role. I had applied for a variety of roles and came across the apprenticeship with Riverside which I was apprehensive about applying for because it was only a 12 month contract and the pay was significantly lower than other jobs I had applied for. I decided to submit my application because the job description sold me on the idea that I would get all the skills needed to find a job elsewhere if they were unable to offer me a role so I thought to myself the worst case scenario is I work for 12 months and get a qualification at the end which could help me land a role elsewhere so I had nothing to lose.
I was offered a place at interview at head office and met with the head of L&D and the person leading the apprenticeship project within Riverside. The interview was the same as any other job which I had expected and it gave me a chance to find out more about the job and what they had to offer and how they would have a variety of roles that would give me a sample of everything they did so I could find what area best suited me. A few days later I got a call offering me the job and I started a week later in my new role as the L&D apprentice.
During my first few weeks on the job I had weekly meetings with the head of L&D and we discussed the role and the jobs I was monitoring and how I wanted to shape my apprenticeship so I got the most out of my time with Riverside which gave me more flexibility than any other job I had previously. I was taken back by how much control I had over my time here which was such a refreshing difference to my previous role where you are told how to do a job and do the same thing day in day out.
I was given every opportunity to gain new skills and was sent on a verity of training courses and provided with my own project to manage and roll out across the business which I am still in charge of today. I have attended several conferences and meetings as an ambassador for Riverside and given opportunities here I would have never been given in any other role.
If anyone was looking at possibly applying for an apprenticeship I would fully endorse they do so. It is a great opportunity to get your start in a business while gaining crucial experience in the role while at the same time you get a qualification.
I would say the top tips for applying for an apprenticeship are:
– If you are applying for an apprenticeship take it as serious as you would any other job interview. Make sure you show the best version of you on the day.
– Keep your CV short. My CV is 2 pages long which gives me plenty of room to showcase my experience and give the employer a background on me.
– Ask what opportunities are available. This gives you more of an idea about the possible career prospects you can expect to go into at the end of your apprenticeship
– Be yourself. Cheesy as it might be it gives your potential employer an insight as to who you are as a person and helps you stand out.
– At the end of your interview ask “what made you invite me to interview?” This gives you an insight on what employers look at the most when you apply and leaves them thinking about you in a good light because their last thought of you is a positive one.
Personally I have now completed my apprenticeship and I am currently in the final few months of a 12 month contract. I am looking at possibly being given a permanent contract by April. I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity and would recommend it for anyone.
Josh Deering | LinkedIN