Summary:
- The search for a work-linked training scheme starts with defining your career plan.
- To speed up the search, you need to improve your brand image, prepare for interviews and mobilise your network.
- Sup de Pub offers support to students looking for work-study placements via its dedicated Career Center.
Defining your career plan
Before you even start looking for a work-linked placement, the first step is to clearly define your career plan.
Identify your interests and skills
It’s all about taking an introspective look at your passions and the areas in which you excel. You need to identify your strengths and make a list of the activities that motivate you.
To assess your technical, interpersonal or creative skills, simply analyse your past experience. This can include successes, achievements or even failures. You can also ask those around you for feedback. Once you have identified these elements, it becomes easier to target your search.
Determine the sector of activity and type of work-linked training you are looking for
This strategic approach enables you to sort through the opportunities for work experience. It’s not just a question of finding a field that interests you. You need to identify the growth sectors where your skills could be put to good use.
You need to decide on the type of sandwich course that best suits your objectives and your learning style. You can choose between an apprenticeship contract or a professional training contract. You also need to take into account the length of the course and the assignments offered in the company.
Setting your objectives and expectations
What do you want to achieve through this work-linked training scheme? It’s important to set both short- and long-term career goals. These could be acquiring new skills, gaining experience or getting a specific job.
You also need to define your expectations of the host institution and company. This may involve the quality of the training, the level of support or the opportunities for career development.
Optimising your work-linked training search
Creating an effective CV and covering letter
If you want to speed up your search for a work-linked training scheme, it’s a good idea to make sure your CV and covering letter are striking. Each document should highlight your skills and relevant experience. It’s crucial to take care with their presentation and to tailor them to the company you’re looking for. They reflect your personal brand image.
Look after your LinkedIn profile
Perfecting your LinkedIn profile is an effective way of optimising your chances of finding a work-linked placement. It’s all about enhancing your profile to attract the interest of recruiters and increase your visibility. You can use keywords they are looking for, interact with professionals in the sector and join relevant groups.
Increase the number of applications and contacts
To get results quickly, it’s a good idea to multiply your applications and contacts. Explore various companies in the sector that interests you. To increase your contacts, network actively online and offline and take part in professional events.
Preparing for interviews
Repeating the most frequently asked questions
This is an excellent strategy for preparation. Rehearsal helps you to structure your answers better and gain confidence. It also helps you to anticipate the recruiter’s expectations during the interview.
Highlighting your strengths and motivation
During interviews, you need to know how to highlight your strengths and your motivation. Highlighting your key skills helps you stand out favourably in the eyes of recruiters. You also need to express your convictions with passion during interviews to capture their attention.
Negotiate your pay and work-study conditions
Before an interview, it is vital to prepare for negotiations on pay and work-study conditions. You need to find out about market standards and come up with convincing arguments.
Our advice on finding a work-linked training scheme
Mobilise your personal and professional network
The power of networking can open unexpected doors to your work-study opportunity. It can include your former colleagues, teachers and friends. Social media and professional events can help you expand your network.
Taking part in work-linked training forums and events
This makes it easy to find an opportunity. You’ll be able to meet recruiters and industry professionals directly. It’s also an opportunity to distribute your CV.
Staying perseverant and positive
When looking for a work-linked training scheme, perseverance and positivity are essential. It’s important to stay motivated despite rejections or obstacles. You need to keep faith in your career path and your abilities.
How does Sup de Pub help its students find a work-study placement quickly?
Sup de Pub makes it easy to find a work-study programme thanks to its dedicated Career Center. We have a network of over 6,000 partner companies and 13,000 alumni.
In addition, our students benefit from personalised support to help them find their contract. Coaching sessions, company forums and a platform dedicated to job offers are all available.