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Time and time again, students hear from professors and advisors to take initiative to learn more about the industries and professions they want to work in. Many students take industries, but job shadows are often over looked. After taking the time to go on a job shadow, I think they are a great way to learn a lot in a short period of time.

Time and time again, students hear from professors and advisors to take initiative to learn more about the industries and professions they want to work in. Many students take industries, but job shadows are often over looked. After taking the time to go on a job shadow, I think they are a great way to learn a lot in a short period of time.

The first step is picking a place, somewhere you want to learn more about. Most places allow job shadows. All it takes is a phone call or e-mail and a little schedule coordinating. Try to be as flexible as possible; remember they are trying to help you out.

My job shadow was at the Weidert Group, a public relations and marketing firm in Appleton, Wis. Although I had some idea of the industry, I didn’t know exactly what to expect on the day of my shadow. Be prepared to be thrown into the action. Think of it like an all day interview—be on your toes.

My day consisted of conference calls, meetings, and other observing of daily activities.

Take everything in; note the atmosphere, interactions, process of the day to day work. Remember that if you get a job in the industry your job could be similar and even the little details matter.

Lisa Cruz, vice president and director of public relations at the Weidert Group, was a very helpful person to follow. She made it very easy for me to ask questions. Don’t be shy. These professionals are open books often with a wealth of experience. They have allowed you to come into their world; make the most of it and ask as many questions as you can.

Also, be prepared to get in on the action. If asked for your input and you have an idea, don’t be shy. Sharing your thoughts shows you are paying attention, are interested in what’s happening, and can think actively. When you are not participating or asking questions, take notes so you can remember everything that you are learning. A lot is going to happen fast, and it can leave your head spinning. Cruz advised to talk about it with friends afterwards just to recap what you learned and remind yourself what you found interesting.

Job shadows are also a great time for the infamous ‘n’ word: networking. Let the people you meet with know what you are looking for so they can keep their eyes open for job or internship opportunities. Leave your contact information with them so they can pass it along. Keep in touch after the job shadow. Most places are open to answer any questions you have about the industry, interviewing, resumes, etc.

Cruz and Karen Buckoski, public relations specialist, gave me with a lot of great pointers throughout the day. I asked them to tell me everything they knew and here is some of the advice they left me with:

• When you go to interview, stand out by dressing the part. That means suits for men and women. Try to make your outfit ‘pop’ so they remember you by adding a bright tie or scarf.

• Tap into your network—we hear this all the time, from everyone. But take it from those who’ve been out in the job field: it’s not all what you know, it’s who you know. Ask friends, co-workers, classmates, etc.

• Never stop networking. Send out your resume, make phone calls, stop by potential places of employment. Be persistent. People are busy and often need reminders to keep them on track, so check in frequently. Joining professional organizations after school is also a great way to network.

• Keep your portfolio updated and organize it before an interview. Put the stuff that is most relevant to the job description in the front.