Top Tips for Crushing Your Work Placement

Work placement is a huge opportunity—it’s your chance to gain real-world experience, build confidence, and take the first step toward your dream job.

We know that starting placement might be daunting, but don’t worry. Thousands of our students have completed placement and gained full-time work in their chosen careers.

And we’re confident that you’re next! Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Work Placement:

Take a breath: learning takes time

Don’t expect to learn everything at once. Remember, placement can last anywhere from 120 to 480 hours, which means there’s plenty of time to get the hang of things. Your supervisor knows you’re new, so they’ll ease you in with smaller tasks to help build your confidence.

In the first few days of your placement, it’s completely normal to feel a little anxious or even doubt yourself. Almost every student experiences this at some point—but here’s the good news: it’s just part of the learning process. Take it one step at a time, trust yourself, and don’t forget to breathe. You’re more capable than you think, and you’ve got this!

The more you ask, the more you learn

Never hesitate to ask questions—it's how you learn and grow! Your supervisor understands that you’re still learning, and speaking up shows you’re engaged and serious about your placement. The more you ask, the clearer your role will become. Plus, asking questions not only boosts your confidence but also helps you get valuable feedback to improve and thrive in a real work setting. 

Bring a notebook: capture everything you learn

Starting placement can feel overwhelming, but that’s where your notebook comes in. Keep it on hand to jot down your co-workers’ names, their titles, new terminology, and anything you think you might forget. And whenever you pick up a new skill—write it down! It’ll be valuable for your CV and will help you track your progress as you go.

Stay engaged: always look for ways to contribute

During your placement, there may be moments when things slow down, and you might not have a task at hand. Instead of reaching for your phone, resist the temptation to scroll through social media. It’s not worth the impression it gives to your co-workers or supervisor.

Take the opportunity to show initiative! Tidy up workspaces ("if there's time to lean, there's time to clean") or look for tasks you can pitch in with. Your workplace will appreciate someone who shows drive, initiative, and resourcefulness. 

Your attitude shapes your success

It’s completely normal to feel nervous, but remember—your attitude makes all the difference. Avoid falling into negative self-talk like, “I’m no good at this” or “I keep making mistakes.”

Instead, try thinking, “I’m doing my best, I’m learning from my mistakes, and I’ve got this!”

Being overly critical can affect your confidence and mindset. A positive attitude, however, is contagious. When you stay friendly and upbeat, you’ll not only boost your own confidence but also leave a lasting, positive impression on others. People will want to work with you, and that’s a huge asset in any workplace!

Finish strong: express your gratitude

Once your placement is complete, take a moment to send a thoughtful thank-you email or even a card! Show appreciation for the valuable experience you’ve gained. A simple gesture of gratitude can leave a lasting impression.

If you’re lucky, this could lead to a reference for your CV or even future opportunities. It’s a small act that can go a long way in building relationships and keeping you in mind for future roles.