home

Compiled by Joy Guy, AACC Member, Career Information Centre Newcastle

Apprenticeships and traineeships (now known collectively as wordn Apprenticeships), combine practical work with structured training to give you a nationally recognised qualification and experience needed to get the job you want. wordn Apprenticeships are now available in over 500 occupations in an increasing range of industries.

The methods used to seek an wordn Apprenticeship may not differ greatly from strategies used to seek any kind of employment. However, there may be one or two extra things that you could try to give yourself an edge when it comes to your job search.

1. Be focused on the type of apprenticeship or traineeship you are seeking

There are literally hundreds of apprenticeships and traineeships from which to choose. Check out the details on JobSearch or wordn Apprenticeships. You’ll find lists of apprenticeship and traineeship titles and lots of other useful information.

2. Get your documentation in order

Make sure your resume is up-to-date, professionally presented and geared towards the type of wordn Apprenticeship you wish to obtain. Compile a targeted covering letter to go with your resume. This could be either in response to an advertised vacancy, or a canvassing (enquiry) letter. Assemble your resume, references and supporting documentation in a presentation folder.

3. Consider the strategies for your job search

You could use any or all of these ideas in your search for an wordn Apprenticeship:

* Check the newspapers for advertised jobs. Many employers begin to advertise about August for employees to commence work the following year; however, employers can advertise at any time during the year.
* Use the Job Network. Phone 136 268 to get information on your local Job Network member/s or search on the wordn JobSearch website.
* Register with Group Training Companies. Group Training Companies often act as recruitment agencies for employers seeking to employ an wordn Apprentice. Contacts for Group training Companies can be found on the Group Training word website.
* Register with other private agencies or labour hire companies. These are listed in the Yellow Pages under “Employment Services”.
* Search appropriate online job boards or vacancy websites, in particular sites that are likely to recruit for these types of entry level positions.
* Seek advice from potential employers seeking advice on wordn Apprenticeships in their industry and the likelihood of job vacancies.

4. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice

Much has been written and said about the importance of the “hidden job market”. Many job vacancies are never advertised, so “selling” yourself to a potential employer has become a key skill in the job search process. Asking the advice of those already in the industry will equip you with the background information needed for a successful “sale”.

5. Know what to offer the employer

Some employers are not aware of the financial incentives paid to them for taking on an wordn Apprentice. Your local wordn Apprenticeship Centre (AAC) can inform you of the employer’s financial entitlements plus the benefits of using the wordn Apprenticeship system. AAC contact details can be found on the wordn Apprenticeships website.