Work experience while studying at college is an essential part of your learning journey with us. It will boost your CV, help you develop important employability skills and make you stand out from the crowd when applying for jobs.
Finding and applying for work experience roles can be a daunting process, especially if it will be your first professional job. At Bournemouth & Poole College, we have a team of Work Placement Officers who work across curriculum areas to support learners in gaining these valuable positions.
In this post, we’re highlighting some of the top tips our Work Placement Officers have for those looking to secure the best work experience placements.
Tip 1: Start planning early
Make a list of the companies you’d like to work for and aim to contact at least five of them. The earlier you start thinking about this, the more time you have to plan.
Tip 2: ‘Who you know’ matters
Ask friends and family if any of them are able to help you find a work placement. You might be surprised at what this uncovers.
Tip 3: Be prepared
It’s worth knowing a little about the company you’d like to work for. Search them online and list some reasons you’d like to work for them. It’s worth including these in your cover letter.
Tip 4: Ace your CV
Your CV may be the first thing your potential employer sees, so it must showcase your skills, experience and attitude as well as possible. The Employability Skills Coaches, based in our Careers Hubs, will be more than happy to help you create a CV that reflects you perfectly. They’re based in both Lansdowne and North Road.
Tip 5: Get the most out of it
Once you’ve got your dream work experience position lined up, it’s time to start thinking about how you will get the most out of it. It’s essential to be on time, present yourself professionally and get involved. Work experience is a great opportunity to make connections in the professional world, so don’t hold yourself back!
Whatever your aspirations are for the end of your studies at Bournemouth & Poole College, work experience will open up opportunities, help you develop valuable skills and, ultimately, support you in getting to where you want to be in your career.
Find out more about work experience at Bournemouth & Poole College.
