National Apprenticeship Week: How to Impress an Employer
We know that job applications and interviews can be daunting, which is why for this year’s National Apprenticeship Week (Monday 9 – Sunday 15 February) we’ve worked with our career advisor to collate some advice on how you, as an apprentice or student, can stand out to employers.
What’s your next step? Are you applying for your first apprenticeship or full-time job, or perhaps preparing for a work placement? Whatever path you’re choosing, making a strong impression is about more than just qualifications. Here are our top tips to help you shine:
1. Tailor your CV – quality over quantity
One of the most common mistakes that employers see is a generic CV. While it may be tempting to send the same CV to every role, employers can usually tell, and it rarely makes a strong impression.
Instead:
• Tailor your CV to each job you apply for, using the job description as your guide
• Highlight the skills, experience and training you have that are most relevant to that specific role
• Use clear examples from your studies, practical training, work experience or volunteering
Even small changes, such as reordering bullet points or adjusting your personal statement, can show an employer that you’ve taken the time to understand their organisation and role.
2. Think about your body language during an interview
An interview isn’t just about what you say, it’s also about how you present yourself.
Before and during your interview:
• Dress appropriately and arrive on time (or log in early for online interviews)
• Make eye contact and smile, this will help build a rapport between you and the interviewer
• Sit up straight, avoid fidgeting and listen carefully before answering questions
• Make sure you’ve researched the organisation and show enthusiasm towards their mission and the role.
Confident body language doesn’t mean you have to know all the answers, but it shows that you’re engaged and ready to learn.
3. Highlight your transferable skills
You don’t need to tick every box on a job description to be a strong candidate. Many employers value transferable skills just as highly as technical knowledge, especially for apprenticeships and entry-level roles.
Think about skills such as:
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Time management
• Problem-solving
• Reliability and willingness to learn
Use examples from your course, practical sessions, part-time work or extracurricular activities to demonstrate how you already use these skills. They show employers your potential, not just your experience so far.
4. Build your network – connections matter
Networking isn’t just for experienced professionals; it’s a valuable skill to start developing early.
You can build your network by:
• Talking to tutors, assessors and guest speakers
• Engaging with employers during career events, open days and work placements
• Following organisations and professionals on LinkedIn
• Staying in touch with people you meet during your studies or work experience
You never know where a conversation might lead! Many opportunities come from being remembered and recommended.
REMEMBER, employers aren’t only looking for qualifications, they’re looking for a good attitude, and someone committed to their work, as this shows that you have potential. Here at Capel Manor College, we’re proud to support you as you develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the world of work.
