Work placements are a big part of training at Kangan Institute. They let students practice what they’ve learned in real settings and get a feel for their future careers. Knowing what to expect can help students make the most of this experience and build confidence. Many students also find that a work placement can open doors to future employment, making it even more valuable. Here’s a guide to what’s expected during a Kangan Institute work placement.

1. Professionalism and Workplace Conduct

One of the main expectations is professionalism. Students step into real workplaces with supervisors, colleagues, and clients, so it’s important to act professionally. This includes dressing appropriately, being polite, and following workplace rules.

Professional standards vary by workplace, so ask about dress codes and workplace policies early on. Showing respect and professionalism makes a positive impression and helps students fit into their roles quickly. Plus, it could even increase the chances of being considered for future roles at the organization.

2. Punctuality and Time Management

Being on time and reliable is crucial during a placement. It shows respect and dedication to the role. Arriving on time, meeting deadlines, and managing time well are habits that every employer values.  

Balancing study with work placement can be new for many students, so creating a schedule, setting priorities, and using reminders can help keep everything on track.

Read Kangan Institute’s Student Ambassador, Elias Hamwi’s article on My Day as a Student for some good tips.

3. Openness to Learning and Feedback

A work placement is a chance to learn in a new way. Students get to experience the work firsthand, so having an open mind and being willing to learn is essential. Supervisors often give feedback to help students improve, so seeing feedback as a tool for growth can make a big difference.

4. Active Participation and Initiative

Students are encouraged to be active participants. Asking questions, seeking clarification, and offering to help shows that you’re interested and engaged. Taking initiative also shows supervisors that you are serious about developing your skills.

Kangan Institute students may be assigned tasks that require problem-solving or independent thinking. Taking these tasks seriously and trying to do them well can help students stand out and prepare for future jobs.

5. Adapting to Different Work Cultures

Each workplace has its own way of doing things. Adjusting to a new environment can sometimes be challenging, but being flexible and observing how others work can help. Adapting to different work cultures, handling high-paced settings, and learning how experienced colleagues respond to challenges can be very valuable.

Whether students are working in healthcare, automotive, or animal studies, they may have to make quick decisions, work as a team, or pay close attention to details. Observing colleagues’ ways of working can provide guidance on handling similar situations.

6. Setting Goals and Tracking Progress

Setting goals for the placement experience can help students stay focused and track their growth. These goals can be simple, like learning a new skill or improving teamwork. By reflecting on what they’ve learned and what was challenging, students can get a better sense of their strengths and areas to work on.

7. Building Industry Contacts

A work placement is also a great way to start building a professional network. Meeting colleagues, supervisors, and others in the field can lead to future job opportunities or even mentorship. Being friendly, respectful, and approachable can help build strong connections that last beyond the placement. And, in some cases, a successful placement can lead to an ongoing role with the company.

Platforms like LinkedIn are great to build industry contacts and networking!

Making the Most of Your Kangan Institute Work Placement

A work placement through Kangan Institute is not just a class assignment; it’s a chance to build a strong foundation for your career. With a positive attitude and clear expectations, students can gain skills, insights, and contacts to set them up for success. And since some students even secure long-term employment through their placements, it’s an opportunity that can be the start of an exciting career.

Learn more about Kangan Institute’s courses with work placements and start your hands-on learning journey today!