“You mean I can just ask to follow someone at their job for a day?”
That’s the reaction we get all the time in our programs. Most people have never heard of job shadowing, but once they do, a lightbulb goes off.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to work in a certain job, job shadowing might be exactly what you need.
What Is Job Shadowing?
Job shadowing means spending a day (or a few) observing someone as they do their job. You don’t take over their duties, but you do get to ask questions, see the work environment, and experience a “day in the life.”
Think of it like test-driving a career. You get to explore a job before investing time or money in training or school.
Why Job Shadowing Is So Valuable
Job shadowing can:
- Help you make smart career decisions.
You might think you want to be an electrician, welder, or CNC operator, but shadowing someone in that role helps you know for sure. - Let you see the real work environment.
Is it fast-paced? Quiet? Indoors or outdoors? Shadowing lets you find out what fits you. - Give you an edge in interviews.
When you can say, “I spent a day shadowing a machinist at XYZ Company,” it shows initiative and curiosity. Employers love that. - Build your network.
Job shadowing is a great way to meet people in the field and make a strong first impression.
How to Set Up a Job Shadow and How We Can Help
You don’t have to figure this out on your own.
Through our PartnerUp mentoring program, we help participants connect with professionals in their field of interest. Many of our mentors are happy to offer job shadowing opportunities.
When you join PartnerUp, you’ll work with a mentor to:
- Talk through your career interests
- Identify someone you might be able to shadow
- Reach out to companies or contacts together
- Reflect on what you learn afterward
Whether you’re curious about the trades, healthcare, tech, or something else entirely, we’re here to help you explore your options before taking your next step.
So ask yourself:
“Who could I shadow for a day?”
Or even better:
“Who can help me find someone to shadow?”
We’ve got some ideas.
Learn more about PartnerUp and let’s get you connected.
