How to make the most out of work experience

Be clear

Have a clear idea of what you would like to get out of it before you begin and discuss this with your placement supervisor.

It’s good to talk

Talk to as many people as you can within your host organisation. Just pick the right time ie not when they’re up a ladder or have come off a long phone call.

Clock on

Always be punctual. It will be noticed if you are not.

Smile

Be enthusiastic about whatever tasks you are given. (Within reason – obviously if they have you emptying the bins every day this is out of order.) If you can prove yourself quickly, chances are you will be offered more challenging things to do.

Brew up

Offer to make the tea. Really. It sounds like a cliché, but people will love you for it. And get a pad to note down how everyone likes their cuppa. It will earn you serious brownie points.

Ask

Ask questions, even if you think they’re really obvious. People will just be glad that you are interested. And when better to find out the answers than from people already doing the job.

Enjoy

Enjoy it! Yes, you want to be taken seriously, and messing around is out of order, but you are allowed to crack a smile occasionally. No one wants to work around a total mardy arse.

Glad rags

Dress appropriately. If you‘re going to be mucking in with some physical work, or attending a meeting, you know what you should wear. If you’re unsure what you’re going to be doing on your first day, just ring and ask the week before.

Do more

Ask the people you meet if they know anyone else who might offer you some more work experience. People in theatre tend to know lots of other people in theatre.

The big finish

Have a closing line. If you enjoyed working there and would like to come back, then be ready to ask. Looking for a job? Let them know you’re keen and ask who to address a covering letter to. Also, ask if they would be prepared to write you a reference if needed.