An apprenticeship is the best of both worlds for those who are looking for their next step. Not only can you undergo training, learn new skills, and grab a qualification from it, but you can earn a real wage and enjoy the benefits of the world of work. Looking for a way in? Here’s our guide on finding and applying for an apprenticeship.

Find Your Best Options

The first thing you need to consider, if you haven’t already, is what sort of apprenticeship you should apply for. Are you looking for a specific career path, or something more generic to give you a taste of hands-on, practical work? Have you decided what sort of apprenticeship you’re looking for yet? It’s important to ensure you make this decision armed with the most information you can.

You can use the site employinganapprentice.com to help you. Their website is dedicated to offering advice and support on everything apprenticeship-related. Their useful information can guide you through the process and help you work out exactly what you need to do and know in order to not only find and apply for an apprenticeship, but be successful and enjoy it. Not only will reading up on apprenticeships help you decide if it’s right for you, and what sort of direction you want to head in, but it’ll also help you prepare better for the application process. How, you ask?

Know Your Stuff

Once you’ve decided on the apprenticeship you’re going to apply for, one of the easiest ways to prepare yourself is to do some research. This doesn’t mean memorising the company’s website word for word, but it does mean knowing a bit about the company, what it stands for, what is important to them, and how that applies to you. For example, a company may be looking for someone who is independent and doesn’t need too much instruction – and you can use past experience to prove that you’re a good fit for that, such as a time where you worked independently.

Not only does reading up on the company show that you’re a good fit for the role, but it also shows you’re dedicated to the opportunities that come your way, and are willing to put time and effort into the role and the company. It pays off to do your research!

Apply with Confidence

As with most work opportunities, you’ll need to submit a CV, a cover letter, and take part in an interview. These can often put people off, but don’t sweat it – often, what wins people over in applications is self-confidence. If you can talk about your skills, and show that you’re passionate for the job, then have the confidence to show that and show your potential employers that you know you can do the apprenticeship well. Not arrogance – you’re in a role where you’ll be learning, of course – but confidence and passion. If you’re unsure on the interview, here are some top tips for smashing it.

Applying for an apprenticeship is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make – so what are you waiting for?