Are you interested in gaining experience and developing new skills in the workplace? Many job seekers find that work experience is a helpful first step towards getting a job.
Work experience provides an opportunity to observe and participate in the every day activities of a workplace, is usually unpaid and is set up for a defined period of time, for example full time for three weeks or one day a week for 10 weeks.
Work experience can have a number of benefits including:
- helping you clarify what kind of work you are suited to
- giving you an opportunity to practice applying for jobs
- improving your resume
- giving you practical experience you can refer to in a job interview
- giving you some industry contacts that may lead to employment
- a possible offer of employment at the end of the work experience placement.
Some employers may advertise work experience opportunities. You or your employment service provider may also directly approach employers and ask to be considered for a work experience placement.
Employers will generally require you to be covered by work related insurance to participate in a work experience placement.
Work Experience Activities
The Work Experience Activities will meet the cost of work related insurance (personal accident and public liability insurance) for eligible job seekers to help overcome one of the main problems when organising work experience.