Start with Clear Goals
From before your placement starts, try to think about what you want to get out of it. Do you want to learn specific skills, understand how a particular job works, or simply get used to a professional environment? Writing down a few simple objectives will help you stay focused and make the best use of your time.
It doesn’t have to be complicated. Something as broad as "learn how a marketing team plans a campaign" or "find out if I enjoy working with customers" is enough to shape an experience.
Do Your Research
Try and read up on the company or organisation you intend to join. Check out their website, their recent news, and their social media. Get familiar with their values, who they serve as customers or clients, and what kind of work they do.
If you are going in with some background knowledge on the company, it reflects your initiative and gives you at least some understanding of the way in which the tasks you are assigned fit into the bigger picture.
Be Punctual and Professional
First impressions count. Turn up on time, dress appropriately, and treat everyone you meet with respect. Even if you are in a laid-back setting, showing respect and professionalism will go a long way in how you are remembered.
In many cases, being dependable and courteous weighs just as much as having the hard skills. This becomes especially important when the time comes for future references.
Take Notes
Bring a notebook or use your smart phone (if appropriate) to write things down: instructions, names of tools or systems, advice or feedback.
The act of actually writing things down aids memory and pays courtesy to those giving the information, showing that you are attentive and eager to learn.
Ask Questions
Do not be afraid to ask questions if something is unclear. Work experience is meant to be a learning opportunity, and most people will be glad to explain how it works. Try to ask intelligent questions about someone's career path, what they enjoy about their job, and how different departments operate together. Such conversations can prove incredibly helpful and provide clues for which path you might wish to pursue.
Be Proactive
Finish work early? Lend a hand to someone who needs it. No matter how trivial-it may be filing work, updating spreadsheets-your willingness to help will speak for itself.
Being proactive doesn’t mean taking on things beyond your capability. Show a willingness to step up and contribute.
Observe and Learn
Not all learning will come through the performance of assigned tasks. Observe interpersonal communications, conduct of meetings, and ways of solving problems. The level of soft skills is just as important as technical know-how.
Observing team communication, or watching someone negotiate a rough situation, can give you insights into some of the working-life hard truths.
Ask for Feedback
If your placement lasts longer than a day or two, ask for feedback midway and in the end so you can improve and show that you are willing to learn.
You don't have to go through formal evaluations just by asking "Is there anything I could be doing better?" can actually do a ton."
Reflect on the Experience
A period of reflection should be present after the placement has ended, once it is over, perhaps days, weeks, or even months later. What did you enjoy? What did you find difficult? Did the experience confirm your interest in pursuing this field, or did it make you rethink things?
Writing things down to explain what you have learned and how you felt about them is good practice that helps in the long run. You can use these examples later when closing job applications, applying for university or apprenticeships, or samples in personal interviews and statements.
Keep in Touch
After the placement, if you established a rapport with somebody, be they your mentor, supervisor, or colleague, maybe follow up with a short thank-you note or LinkedIn request. It does not have to be highly formal: just a polite message of appreciation.
These relationships can yield references, opportunities, or simply a little guidance.
Summary
At Plan Step Forward, we believe experience remains an echo of your efforts. A small measure of preparation, inquisitiveness, and a little effort can make even a short placement a worthwhile insight into the world of work. Consider this a chance to test a career path and build habits and skills into the way you work that will help you in whatever comes next.
Feeling like there's never enough time? The real problem isn't the clock—it's what you do with your minutes. Instead of wishing for more hours, try giving your full attention to one thing at a time. A little focus can get you a lot further. #TimeManagement #Productivity #Focus pic.twitter.com/ZukzyPxPkw
— Fairy Girl (@fairygirlvibe) August 7, 2025