An apprenticeship is a great launchpad for young adults looking to start their careers – particularly in the traditional trades. The apprentice application process is one of the most important steps to starting that career path. Consider that your first impression will be your application – and this can be daunting – so careful consideration in taking the right steps is important.
In this blog, we’ll look at apprenticeship application tips you can utilise to brush up on your application letter and interview skills for a smoother and less stressful process, leaving you feeling more confident about your application.
Preparation and patience
Preparation is key when writing your apprentice application letter, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time to draft your CV and cover letter. Take your time with the process and don’t rush any steps. If you have put time and effort into your application, this will come across to the recruiter when they review your application. Be patient when applying to apprenticeships and keep in mind you may not always get an immediate response.
Researching apprenticeships
Doing some research on the apprenticeship placement itself is important before diving into your application. It helps to sign up to alerts on job boards like ours for potential apprenticeship opportunities that may be a match for you. This will allow you to set up your own personal profile, and alerts – and can also help employers find you easier. Finding the right apprenticeship is important as it should be something that suits you, your interests, and skillsets. Thoroughly reading the job description before applying can also help you personalise your pitch more.
Personalise your pitch
Personalisation is crucial when drafting your CV and cover letter. Make sure you are catching the employer’s eye and standing out from other applicants. Find ways to make your CV and cover letter memorable and unique. That could include factors like key information you found interesting about the company and their ethos, how you see yourself fitting in as an apprentice, why you think their company is a good fit for you, and why they should hire you. Being personable and memorable will give you a much better chance of a successful application.
To give you an idea of how your CV and cover letter should be structured, Prospects.ac.uk have produced this CV guide and cover letter mini guide to help you out. This is a general gauge, so always remember to make your CV and cover letter personalised to you.
Review your application
Before sending off your application, make sure you review and check it carefully for any mistakes. Asking someone else, like family or friends, to also review your application can be helpful. An outsider’s opinion might be the fresh perspective you need, and help identify any repetition or errors, especially if you have been working on your application for quite some time and need an outsider’s perspective. It can also help to read your application out loud, to check it makes sense and flows correctly.
Interview preparation
While preparation is key, it’s important to not overprepare for interviews. Bringing extensive notes in with you or memorising answers can come across as rehearsed, so trust your instincts and try to let your confidence shine through. Research the company enough to talk confidently about them but also remember to include your own thoughts and views, this will allow you to have an open and fluent conversation with the employer. Be sure to also come prepared with some questions to ask at the end of the interview, this will show your interest and will allow you to have a more informal chat with the employer about the job itself. Leave the interview knowing everything you need to know, and don’t be afraid to ask any follow up questions you feel may be important – employers are typically happy to answer these via email or phone call.
Authenticity
It’s really important to be yourself during the interview process, meaning you come across as personable and likeable. It’s easier said than done as nerves can get the better of you, but try and get your personality across as much as you can. Remember: nerves are completely normal!
Turn rejection into opportunity
There may be times that your application gets rejected or your interview doesn’t go as planned, and it’s important to try not to be disheartened. Remember this happens to everyone at some point! Use any rejection as a learning curve, request constructive feedback if it has not already been given and use this to excel in your next application.
Your apprenticeship application is the ideal way to sell yourself, show your creativity and uniqueness and get your foot in the door to start your life-long-career.
If you are considering a trade apprenticeship, we have employers looking for apprentices now.
Visit our Jobs Board to upload your CV and find an apprenticeship that’s perfect for you.
