How to be Professional at Work as an Apprentice

Being an apprentice is a unique position in the professional world, where you are growing and developing at the same time. However, professionalism is paramount to your success in your learning and in your job. This may sound like a huge task at the beginning of your career, but we have some simple and helpful tips to help you to be more professional in your workplace.

Familiarise yourself with your host employer’s policies and rules

When you begin your placement, your employer will usually give you a copy of a range of documents that cover professional conduct at work. This could be in the form of a company handbook, an ethics code, an induction pack, disciplinary and grievance procedures. These will clarify your employer’s expectations of what behaviour is and isn’t acceptable and what will happen if rules are broken. Make sureyou are familiar with these documents and ask any questions you may have about the terms they use, so that you have a clear understanding of your employer’s expectations of you.

Appearance

Professionalism is about how you behave at work; however, your personal presentation is also important. So, make sure that you are following your company’s dress code and if you’re unsure about it at all, always ask your manager for clarification. It’s better to ask a seemingly “silly” question, then arrive at your place of work in the wrong attire.

Treat others with courtesy and respect

Be aware that your language and behaviour reflect on you and the organisation, for good or bad. So, make sure that you are speaking with people, whether they are senior you or not, with respect and kindness. Avoid swearing, sarcasm, and passive aggressive emails. Remember, your behaviour effects your colleagues just as much as their behaviour will affect you. So be kind and courteous to everyone at work.

Demonstrate a professional attitude

There are several ways that you, as an apprentice can show that they are committed member of your team, including:

Take your work seriously

Be prompt and attentive, particularly in meetings and training sessions.

Stay fit for work

Look after your health and well-being.

Be reliable

Do what you say you will do, when you say you will do it. If you have a problem do not be afraid to ask for help.

Embrace feedback

Ask for it if it is not given and make efforts to respond to it. This will have an immense impact on your development in your role and your course.

Show commitment to personal development

This is key as an apprentice, as this will help you immensely with your apprenticeship and make you an asset to your team. Actively learn new things and ask questions – you’d be surprised how helpful your colleagues will be when you take an active interest in your role and your company overall.

Communicate professionally

Verbally, digitally, and especially on social media.

We know how challenging it can be to be an apprentice, but we have trained lots of apprentices over the years and believe ‘professionalism’ is really important. For more information, advice and guidance please contact us on info@lmp-group.co.uk.