Inducting your apprentice

You know you need an apprentice. You know what they have to do. But how will they learn what they need to know?

Employing an apprentice requires structure, planning and organisation, especially if you expect them to hit the ground running once they start.  For new apprentices, put yourself in their shoes, they may have never worked before, never seen how a business runs and the only people who have told them what to do are their parents. So, what do they need to know?

To give your apprentice the kick start they need, here’s some simple rules of induction any new employer needs to have covered.

1. Make up an induction pack for their first day; include their contract, company information, safety procedures, forms to be completed, their job description and where they can turn for any help or assistance (e.g. Assigned mentor within the company, ABL Apprenticeships Centre).

2. Have all their equipment/materials ready: Make sure you have the tools for them to do their job when they arrive

3. Assign a mentor/buddy: Line someone up who can support them and they can talk to if you’re unavailable. It’s important they feel supported.

4. Get their communication tools ready: Are phones, email addresses or other communication devices set up ready to go?

5. Time to meet: Are meetings arranged with the relevant people to discuss hygiene factors like sick leave, holiday, dress code, time sheets.

6. Is there a structured induction program ready to go? What tasks will they need to complete over time and is their opportunity for them to learn this?

7. Build your relationship with them. How will you get to know your new apprentice and get them to the level of competence you will require? Set time aside to help them feel supported and communicate what you expect.