Job Shadows and Career Conversations
Conducted by students who are seriously considering an occupation and want to view a professional doing the job. Students enrolled in some health science majors will complete job shadowing as a prerequisite before applying to their programs.
- Time frame: several hours or up to a full day.
- Goal: watch a professional at work and follow them as they perform their daily activities in order to provide insight into the profession.
- Benefit: get more specific examples of the work and see the “day to day” of the job.
- Challenge: more investment on the professional and based on confidentiality and privacy, many employers do not permit these experiences.
Career Conversations
Provides the opportunity to speak with people who are currently working in a particular career field; this can be done in person, through email, virtually or on the phone. You may also hear these referred to as “informational interviews.”
- Time frame: 30-45 minutes, depending upon the availability of person you’re meeting
- Goal: speak with professionals about their job, the organization for which they work, or to learn about a career field.
- Benefit: smaller time commitment, opens doors for networking and other opportunities, and available in fields that may not allow job shadows.
- Challenge: only get one person’s perspective on the job and/or company.
Preparation
Making the most of the opportunity
- Research the career, organization, and person you will be meeting.
- Dress appropriately for the meeting; be on time, courteous, and professional.
- Send a thank you note after the meeting.
How to connect with individuals/organizations
- Career Services can assist in finding employers or appropriate contacts.
- You can reach out directly to friends, relatives, and community members.
- Contact the individuals to introduce yourself, share how you received their name, and inquire if they would be willing to share information on their position/career.
What do I ask?
About their background
- Can you tell me more about your position? How did you get started in this field?
- Can you tell me about your career path? What education or training do you have?
About the job
- What is a typical day like for you? What do you like most and least about your work?
- What types of skills/characteristics would someone need to be successful in this field?
- How much flexibility do you have in your job?
- How many hours do you typically work? Do you travel? Do you work independently or with others?
About the organization
- How would you describe the working environment?
- How do people find out about openings within this organization?
- Are there opportunities to volunteer, job shadow, or intern with this organization?
Resources
- Do you suggest other resources or professional organizations to learn more about the field?
- Is there anyone else you would suggest I speak to about this job/position/organization?
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