Can you imagine spending the next three to five years

studying and training for a job

that you don't even like?!?!

This is where Job Shadows come in......They're like the insider peek at professions, companies, industries and workplaces. 

...They help you make better informed decisions about colleges or vocational training.

...They give you invaluable connections to professionals working in the fields you want to break into.

What is a Job Shadow?

A job shadow is the chance to spend time with a professional that is currently working in a field or industry that you're interested in.

It gives you the opportunity to see what it's actually like to work in a specific job.   

Job Shadows 

ARE:

Short term (<8 hours)

Informational

Great opportunities to network

ARE NOT:

Extended internships or paid positions

Volunteer hours

Interviews

So what is your role in this whole thing?!

1.Research!!– Contact Job Shadow

Host– Turn in ALL paperwork– Attend Job Shadow– Follow up

Step 1: Do your research...

If you have an assignment to complete a job shadow in a specific field, that's a good place to start.

If your assignment is a little more "open" then start looking at what you like to do and what careers might fit with your interests.

So... How do I find a Job Shadow?

Personal Contacts:

Family friends, colleagues or connections of your parents are a great place to start. People from your church, your neighbors, employees at businesses you support or organizations you volunteer for.

School Contacts:

The Career Center has a list of local professionals in many fields who have hosted Job Shadows in the past and would be willing to help. Your teachers and counselors also have great contacts in many fields.

Step 2: Contacting Job Shadow HostMaking the call..."Hi, my name is _____ and I am a student at Casa Grande High School. I am calling today because I have an assignment to set up a job shadow with a local business. I received your contact information from ____. May I schedule a job shadow with you or one of your employees?"

Reminders while on the phone...    Have some dates in mind before you call            Things to keep in mind: When are you available?              Remember: Do not schedule job shadows until after 9:00am

    Get contact info necessary to fill out paperwork            Name, address, phone number etc.

    Make sure you write down the date and time of the job      shadow.             REMINDER: You must attend school FIRST before going to your job shadow!

    Ask employer about the appropriate attire for the job site!!!

3. Do the Paperwork... 

Otherwise it doesn't count...

Student and parent/guardian complete the following forms:1.    Job Shadow Agreement–     Employer Information–     Parental Consent and Medical Authorization–     Petaluma City Schools Student Transportation

   

4. Day of the Job Shadow

Plan to arrive at your job shadow site 5

minutes early.Be professional.

Dress appropriately

Language... SERIOUSLY!!!

Bring a notepad and pen/pencil to

take notes

Have fun!

5. After job shadowDear host,    Thank you very much for allowing me to be your job shadow on Monday. I know your time is valuable, and I thank you for letting me experience a day in the life of a Physician Assistant. It was very helpful to me in making decisions for my future.     I enjoyed learning more about your job responsibilities and duties. I did not know that Physician Assistants had so many choices in the type of work they do. I also did not know that PA's prescribed medication.     I was thrilled that you were able to take the time to answer my questions. Now I have a better understanding of the role of a Physician Assistant. Thank you again for your guidance and assistance.Sincerely,