Job Shadowing & Getting Your Foot in the Door

Job shadowing is an effective way to gain exposure to new careers and to get your foot in the door. You can set up job shadowing opportunities on your own by calling potential employers or get job shadowing assistance from school or employment agency career counselors.

Pay Attention

An invitation to participate in job shadowing is a privilege. If you receive an invitation to shadow a professional in your field of interest, make sure you pay close attention to what she says and does throughout the day. The level of interest you display will determine the feedback you and your career counselor receive from the potential employer.

Take Notes

Taking notes can be an effective way to remember important facts learned during your job shadowing experience. Taking notes also shows potential employers that you can focus on a situation and that you pay attention to details. Take a note book, pens or an electronic note-taking device with you on your job shadowing assignment.

Ask Questions

The best way to show that you are learning from and thinking about your job shadowing experience is to ask questions. If the person you are shadowing is busy, write down questions as they come up and get answers before you leave the job site. Asking questions often encourages potential employers to offer foot-in-the-door positions that lead to bigger opportunities.

References

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