If you are just beginning to work and have not decided on a career path, job shadowing is something to consider. Unlike internships, which can last up to a year and involve real job responsibilities, job shadowing is only hours long and strictly observational. News reporters often use these opportunities for background, but they are useful for anyone curious about a career or industry.
Unless you are still in school, you will need to make most arrangements on your own. Whether you opt for a large company or small is your call. Bigger companies may have a formal program in place, but little ones might offer greater flexibility.
Keep a few things in mind: You are a guest. There might be an upside for management, but the benefit is largely yours. Understand, too, that there could be aspects of a job you cannot observe due to privacy considerations. Insurance concerns can also come into play and limit your scope. Remember as well, that the person you shadow might not be keen on his or her “privilege.” If that becomes clear, chalk the conflict up to experience and move on.
Approach all opportunities with enthusiasm, and you will be pleasantly surprised. You might already know that you do not want to be a kindergarten teacher. Still, you just might discover that teaching P.E. to elementary school kids is a lot of fun. Who knows? Even that job handling lab specimens might not be as gross as you thought.
Unless you are still in school, you will need to make most arrangements on your own. Whether you opt for a large company or small is your call. Bigger companies may have a formal program in place, but little ones might offer greater flexibility.
Keep a few things in mind: You are a guest. There might be an upside for management, but the benefit is largely yours. Understand, too, that there could be aspects of a job you cannot observe due to privacy considerations. Insurance concerns can also come into play and limit your scope. Remember as well, that the person you shadow might not be keen on his or her “privilege.” If that becomes clear, chalk the conflict up to experience and move on.
Approach all opportunities with enthusiasm, and you will be pleasantly surprised. You might already know that you do not want to be a kindergarten teacher. Still, you just might discover that teaching P.E. to elementary school kids is a lot of fun. Who knows? Even that job handling lab specimens might not be as gross as you thought.
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