These days getting an apprenticeship can be hard. Demand has never been higher for apprenticeship places as more and more people decide that university education isn’t for them whilst realising the benefits of working in the skilled trades.

Taking on an electrical apprentice means an extra set of hands for many electricians and the best thing is apprentices usually get trained for free and don’t cost the earth in wages. However, in reality many electricians are not keen on taking on an apprentice. Much of this is due to the incorrect perception that ‘apprentices are unmotivated teenagers who don’t really want to work, but have been pushed into it by mum and dad.’

However times have changed and the calibre of apprentices is on the up. In fact, many of the country’s top students are turning away from the academic route and looking at apprenticeships as a real option to achieve their goals.

We have done our research and compiled our top do’s and don’ts for electrical apprentices to help new apprentices keep their employers happy. These are taken directly from electricians themselves and give you an understanding of the perception of apprentices by employers:

Do’s

  • Show interest in everything. Look keen and make sure you engage whenever possible.
  • Listen carefully to all instructions.
  • If you do have your own tools – use them and if you borrow tools make sure you put them back!
  • If you have nothing to do ask for something or show some initiative and find something that needs doing.
  • Ask lots of questions. Don’t be afraid to ask if you are unsure of something as long as you are able to listen and implement the answer.
  • Practice in your spare time. The quicker you learn the quicker you will be of use to your employer securing your position.
  • Read as much as you can in your spare time. Keep up to date with you training materials and if possible read ahead.
  • Be diligent and punctual.
  • If you make a mistake admit it and correct it.

Don’ts

  • Keep checking your mobile phone, texting friends and receiving calls during working hours. In fact this is listed as one of the most annoying things an apprentice can do and came up more than anything else on this list.
  • Borrow tools and then leave them around where they can be easily lost or damaged.
  • Don’t stand around with your hands in your pockets.
  • Continue doing something even though you are not sure what you are doing. Electricity is dangerous, don’t guess how to do something, simply ask someone for help.
  • Run out the door the second the clock hits five.
  • Don’t try to hide or cover up your mistakes.

Of all these do’s and don’ts the top ones come up time and time again. So if you keep you phone off and show a keen interest in everything you can’t go far wrong.

If you are looking for an electrical apprenticeship be sure to check out our City & Guilds 2357 course. If you are already training with us be sure to take on board this advice.