This information could be applied to any type of employee, after all being a great apprentice is a skill that will last a lifetime, and can be taking into any job in any situation. The Builder and I work on these tips on a daily basis.

Now that you know how to get an apprenticeship, the key to being a great apprentice is what will help you keep your job. Don’t forget there are many others out there that would love your job, it’s up to you to work hard at keeping it.

The Key To Being A Great Apprentice

Be on time!

My Grandfather taught me many life lessons, the one I am most grateful for is the lesson of time management. Being late is rude and inconsiderate. It has the potential to throw the schedule for the entire day out, it most definitely puts you behind and does nothing for getting your head set for the day. If you are any less than 10 minutes early to work, YOU ARE LATE. There are times when something unpreventable happens, traffic, accidents etc, in these cases a call to the boss as early as you know you will be late, will give them the opportunity to reschedule the day where necessary. Don’t leave it until you are already late to call.

Listen Carefully.

Learning to listen is a excellent skill that can be difficult to learn. It requires you to be present in the moment as it happens, to not let your mind wonder. Make eye contact, ask questions, listen carefully. What your employer is saying is not only the direction you need to complete your task, it is also often designed to keep you safe in what you are doing.

Ask Questions.

You are an apprentice, you were employed on the basis that you don’t know what you are doing, you are there to learn. You are expected not to know what you are doing, therefor you are expected to ask questions. Asking questions shows you are keen to learn, you are actively listening to what you are being taught. It shows you are engaged and interested in your job.

Don’t Take Leave Unless Absolutely Necessary.

I recently heard a story of an apprentice being late on the very first day of his apprenticeship, within the same week, he took a day off apparently sick. Whether he was sick or not, is not the question. There are times when you are much better to show up to work, do the best you can, and be sent home sick. Don’t leave your boss with any doubt about you being keen to work. Obviously when you are working with heavy machinery you will need to be cautious, consider asking for a different job on the day if you are feeling hazy.

Get To Know The People You Are Working For.

This can be said for employers and clients alike. At Fernbrooke Homes, we have an expectation that all our employees and subcontractors will show a respectful interest in our clients. Get to know there names, the children’s names and names of the pets. This can help to make the client feel really valued, which can result in repeat business, and business is always needed for there to be a job for you. Don’t stop there, get to know your boss and colleges. Have conversations on a daily basis, you don’t need to be friends with your boss or colleges, but you do need to friendly.

Complete Your Study On Time.

When you are completing your apprenticeship, there is a degree of study that you will be required to finish. Your employer will be in constant contact with your training organisation and the very last thing they will want to hear is that you are behind in your study. Respect yourself and your opportunity enough to get your study done, and to do it well.

Follow Direction.

Although there are times when you will be required to think for yourself, most of your apprenticeship will require to follow direction. Be sure to do exactly as you are asked, this shows that you are listening, attentive and keen to get the job done.

Being a good apprentice is really all about exercising common sense. It is not difficult to become good at your job, especially if you utilise the above skills. This skill set will see you well into not only your apprenticeship, but in everything you do in life. Being a great apprentice will open the door to many rewards, just like our Rylee. ?

Have you been an apprentice? Got a skill you’d like to add to the list?

Nicole xxx