Shadowing a job
Job shadowing can be a great experience and help you learn a lot. But, there are some things you need to think about to make it successful.
Before you start:
- Tell your host what you expect to learn.
- Check if there are any special rules, like a dress code.
- Make sure you discuss any disability requirements with your host in advance, so that they can put adjustments in place.
- Think about what questions you want to ask during the shadowing.
During the placement:
- Take notes, you might get some useful ideas.
- Show tact, discretion and maintain confidentiality at all times.
- Be on time and let your host know if you can’t make it.
- You can use a learning log (Word) to help you to record your experiences.
After the placement:
- Think about what you learned and how it went.
- Give feedback to your host about what you observed.
- Decide how you will use what you learned and share it with your team.
- Talk to your manager about the placement.
- See post-placement review guidance (Word).
Questions to think about:
- Was the job as you expected it to be?
- What did you gain from the experience?
- Do you have any concerns or questions?
- Did the experience answer what you were looking to answer?
- How did you cope with the different working environment?
- Is there any further learning or development you would like to do?
Hosting a placement
Hosting job shadowing can be rewarding but you need to prepare to make it a good experience for the shadowee.
Before you start:
- Agree on a good time for the shadowing, dependent on the shadowee's objectives and the service needs in the host area.
- Inform your colleagues about the shadowing.
- Learn about the shadowee and their goals.
- Discuss any disability requirements and additional support requirements with the shadowee.
- Check if there are any health and safety requirements you need to address.
- Make sure your work area is ready.
During the placement:
- Give the shadowee information about your job and team.
- Let them know if any activities are cancelled or changed.
- Allow time for questions and feedback.
After the placement:
- Reflect on how it went and what could be improved.