It’s hard to say what a typical first day will be like as an apprentice as every business, site and team will be different. We’ve watched our fair share of apprentices complete their first day and know a thing or two about what worked and what didn’t. From getting prepared the night before, to having the right attitude – these are our 10 tips to help you thrive on your first day.
1. Prepare the night before.
We can’t emphasise this enough. If done right – this simple step can save you precious time in the morning, leaving you time to have a stress-free morning cuppa.
Pack your lunchbox, get your work clothes ready (as well as your shoes), if you’re taking tools – make sure they’re in the car and please, check your car has enough petrol to get you to site! It’s highly likely the early start will be enough of a shock to your system, do yourself a favour and don’t add to your stress by not being able to find your other shoe.
2. Mentally prepare yourself for a rude wake-up call.
As a young apprentice, you’re likely coming from school or casual work. The life of late nights and even later mornings are now a thing of the past. So, you’re going to have to get used to waking up with, or even before the birds. Not a coffee drinker? Now could be a good time to start.
Silver lining is that early morning’s mean early knockoffs and in this profession, there’s no taking work home, or answering emails after-hours – that long stretch of afternoon is all yours.
3. Be punctual.
Whatever you do – make sure you arrive on time. This shows your boss you’re eager to impress and respect their time. Us tradies live routine lives – you start on time and you leave on time. Being late isn’t a good look if you expect to enjoy the same lifestyle.
4. Expect to get the jobs no one wants.
No one wants to sweep and unfortunately for you, you’re the latest ‘yes person’ – so the honour will fall to your shoulders. Or should we say… shoulder. Our advice? Slap on a smile and get sweeping – just don’t be surprised when you wake up the next morning with a stiff shoulder.
5. Prepare yourself for a prank or two.
Being the new kid on the block means you’re going to have to endure some initiation rituals to be deemed worthy. Someone asked you to grab a tool you’re pretty sure doesn’t exist? Humour them and look high and low. Don’t take it personally, we’ve all been there.
6. Be a sponge.
Most tradies on your site have been in their job for years and their work is second nature to them. Don’t feel intimidated that you’re not as skilled as them, instead leverage their experience to your benefit. Be a sponge and learn from their experience. This could lead you to one day being in their position, mentoring your own apprentice.
7. Take notes.
You’ll likely be overloaded with information and it’s possible the person showing you the ropes may not be too keen to explain themselves twice, so it pays to take notes.
Not only does this mean you have a reference point to come back to in the future, but you also demonstrate your initiative and eagerness to learn – earning you serious of brownie points.
8. Be personal.
You’re going to want to start on the right foot with your crew. Your team can play a big part in job satisfaction, so it’s a good idea to get to know them.
Our biggest tip – if you see any opportunity to turn the 10-minute smoko into 20 minutes, you might just get legend status. And no, we don’t mean doing anything unsafe.
We’re talking, ask your boss a question, get him chatting – this could earn you all a few extra minutes break, and in a hands-on career every minute counts.
9. Be honest about your skills.
Don’t stitch yourself up and lie or exaggerate your skills. This won’t earn trust if you’re caught. Be honest with your experience and ask questions when you’re unsure. You’re not expected to know everything yet!
10. Keep going – you’re on the right track.
An Apprenticeship sets you up in a rewarding and enjoyable future with many opportunities for success. You’re yet to live your best days – so trust yourself and enjoy the ride.
At Skill Hire, we believe in making things easy. As an RTO, Apprenticeship and Employment Services (AES) Provider, we make your journey into the workforce easy!
Speak to one of our team members today at 08 9376 2800, or email apprenticeships@skillhire.com.au.
