How to get an apprenticeship

Hopefully you have put in a good effort at school and have good teacher’s comments on your school reports, but now what?

Where do you find an apprenticeship?

Don’t keep your intentions a secret. The more people that can help keep an eye out the better your chances.
Group Training Companies (eg SkillsWest, WSROC GT, Workline)
Cold canvassing (Door to door/Yellow Pages). Practice your greeting / opening line.
www.jobsearch.gov.au / www.seek.com.au / www.mycareer.com.au and more
Self promotion: Advertise, posters on notice boards or at trade suppliers
Local and metro newspapers: < 20% jobs found this way, Highly competitive
Job brokers eg Work Directions, Employment Plus (Salvos), Mission Employment etc (get referral via Centrelink)
Pre-apprenticeship courses (Phone TAFE or other Training Organisation)
Work Experience and Work Placement

12 steps that work time and time again

Good typed resume, covering letter & portfolio
Include in your resume: experience, personal value statement, skills of competence.
Research industry & company.
Dress well and conservatively
Be on time for the interview (up to half the first time applicants don’t even turn up)
Don’t bring a friend to the interview
Have three relevant questions ready for the interviewer
Good eye contact, firm hand shake
Show enthusiasm, knowledge of the industry and a willingness to learn
Take time to answer the questions
After the interview send a thank-you letter/ card
Be patient, but do ring after a day or two after you expected to hear from them.