Job Shadow
What is a job shadow?
A job shadow is one way to learn more about a career you are interested in. It is a learning experience that takes place at a business or organization in your community. It usually lasts from 3 to 6 hours. Job shadowing lets you discover up close the world of work. You’ll get to take a tour of a workplace in your community and see different kinds of careers in action. As you observe, you can ask all of the questions you would like. A job shadow allows you to experience the environment of the job and learn what education and skills are required.
Why is a job shadow important?
A job shadow gives you a chance to:
- Begin to identify career interests
- Observe the daily routine of workers
- Learn about the academic, technical, and personal skills required by particular jobs
- Practice communication skills by interacting with workers
- Establish networking skills as a tool for the future
- Realize that different jobs are characterized by different work cultures and working environments
- Navigate the community by traveling to and from the job shadow location
- Realize the rewards that come from initiative and preparedness
- Understand the connection between school, work, and your goals for the future
How do you make job shadows happen?
Once you have
decided to complete a job shadow, you can research companies that may employee
individuals in the respective career. Need
help exploring potential Job Shadow sites? Talk with VHS’s College & Career Specialist and/or your School Counselor to brainstorm potential companies. Be
sure to include your parents/guardians in this process.
Attached are some documents that may help you plan a job shadow.