How good is your handshake?
You’ve gotta hate wimpy or bone crusher handshakes. How hard is it to give a decent handshake?
Companies are preparing their 2020 apprenticeship vacancy ads. It will be hard to get to the interview stage. If you DO get there, don’t blow it with a pathetic handshake!
Give the employer the right gut feeling
Employers often employ apprentices on “Gut Feeling”.
The gut feeling started with a good written application. School leavers can get tips on how to write a good resume and cover letter HERE at Youth Central.
Check this video. It gives tips on how to create a good gut feeling.
Apart from having a decent handshake that says “Hi. Happy to meet you.” you can give a good impression if you dress neatly, smile and show that you have done some research on the company.
- You can find apprenticeships on sites like Seek.com.au or through a career advisor, a Jobs and Skills Centre or via a pre-apprenticeship.
- Getting a job as a trades assistant can help you to get a foot in the door. This gives industry-ready skills and shows you are interested in the work.
- Employers like applicants who have done volunteer or part time work as it showed their enthusiasm and meant they would have some work ready skills.
- Work experience in the field looks good on a resume.
- Good school results, particularly in metals, maths and engineering are indicators that you might be a good apprentice in a building trade. Taking a folio of photos of projects you have worked on is a good idea.
- Start working towards your driver’s license as soon as you turn 16.
At the end of the interview say you really want this apprenticeship.
(Know what to say if they ask why!)
Women and girls interested in trades may find the Programmed National Energy Technician Training Scheme worth applying through. Last year they had 38% females in their trades program. 
Australian Apprenticeship Pathways has a range of information on how to get an apprenticeship.
For advice and coaching on how to get an apprenticeship or traineeship contact me, Bev Johnson at Bev.J@infocus-careers.com.au
In Focus Careers Newsletter
Discover your world of possibilities with a monthly dose of insanely great career news and information:
Testimonial
I have found your material invaluable. The information you have put together is thorough – a one-stop-shop in a sea of information that is out there. I have utilised this information on a regular basis with others throughout the school.
(South Metropolitan Government High School.)
My Commitment to West Australian Careers Education
For In Focus Careers to be the conduit to Insanely Great Careers Information for West Australian careers teachers and students I undertake to:
- Write 10 insanely great issues of In Focus Careers newsletter each year that focus on the needs of West Australian students and careers teachers.
- Search for local, national and international information that could impact on the careers of West Australian students.
- Connect you with insanely great careers teachers across the In Focus Careers network.
- Listen to and support West Australian careers teachers
M: 0434 056 412
Email: Bev.J@infocus-careers.com.au