In Their Shoes

Let’s face it; we have all done it. We’ve tried on mom or dad’s shoes; just to see how it feels. Mom’s high heels may have given your confidence a boost, or those polished wing tips may have made you feel so important. It’s not a bad idea to walk in someone else’s shoes for a day. The Internet is amazing and has opened up the world, but it can’t replace experiencing the real thing. Job shadowing is a great way to actively learn about or explore careers. You can actually walk in someone’s shoes for the day, witnessing first hand the work environment, equipment, and people and technical skills needed to be successful at their job. You have an expert at your fingertips to ask all those burning questions like, how long did you have to go to school? Where did you go to school? What salary can I expect? Are there lots of job opportunities in this field?

Job shadowing can provide high school students an opportunity to explore a broad range of jobs and increase career awareness. Senior high students can narrow interests and test out job suitability. You can even participate in hands-on activities to test the your compatibility to the job. Shadowing can show you how to apply textbook information to the real world. It is a valuable way to make contacts and could lead to a job offer. Even if you decide the job doesn’t fit, look at the experience as an opportunity to meet new people.

Junior Achievement has turned Ground Hog Day into National Job Shadow Day. So why not plan to join the big event by arranging to shadow someone on Friday, February 1, 2008. If you plan to follow in mom or dad’s footsteps, Take Our Sons and Daughters to Work Day is Thursday, April 24, 2008.

Tips for a Positive Job Shadowing Experience:

Get the appropriate permission from parents, school, and mentor.
Dress neat and accordingly for the job site. (Maybe polish your shoes!)
Be on time.
Be courteous and respectful at all times.
Go prepared with interview questions.
Write a thank you note to your host and key staff.

Good Luck!
-Tami