Feeling unsure about your future career? You’re not alone—and that’s exactly why job shadowing is such a smart move. It gives you a real-world glimpse into what different careers actually look like, beyond what you see on TV or in a classroom. Whether it confirms a dream or helps you dodge a mismatch, a job shadow can be the aha moment that sets you on the right path.
What is a job shadow?
Just like your shadow follows you around on a sunny day, you will “follow” someone around at work to really see what it’s like to do this job.
Why job shadow?
A Lincoln teacher shared with her students that when she was in 8th grade, she wanted to be a veterinarian. She spent the day at a vet clinic and was really enjoying interacting with the pet patients and their owners. But when she joined for a patient surgery, the sight of blood made her queasy, and she decided to pivot from pursuing the medical field.
What if she hadn’t had that experience earlier? Imagine the time (and money) spent in college biology classes, only to have a clinical experience at 20 years old and have your career dreams completely shattered. It’s better to explore and “try out” different options early on.
I’m not even sure what jobs I might be interested in…
Then it’s time to take a career interest inventory. Check out the free one at mynextmove.org to get some recommendations.
Before selecting a job to shadow, be sure you’ve considered if this job shadow is a good fit. Ask yourself the following questions:
- What makes you think you want to pursue the job you will shadow?
- What skills do you have that might make you excel in this job?
What if I don’t know anyone who has a job I’d like to shadow?
A McCook student had this exact issue. He wanted to work in the music industry. But there was no way anyone in his rural town of 7,000 people worked with the music industry out of Los Angeles or New York City, right? His Language Arts teacher heard and shared she did know someone in their own town who worked remotely with several record labels. He couldn’t believe it! What a connection!
You know a lot of adults: at school, a part-time job, church, and other places you go. Be courageous – and ask! Ask people if they know anyone working in a career field you’re interested in exploring. I’ve yet to meet someone who wouldn’t be happy to make a connection – especially with a teen trying to find the right career fit.
What should I do on a job shadow?
Always start with a good first impression. Even when you set up the job shadow, use your best professional skills to make the ask via email or phone call. Clarify the date, time, where to meet, and ask about appropriate dress.
Write down and take some questions you want to ask the person you will shadow. If you’re not sure what to ask, here are some to get you started:
- What skills does someone need to be successful in this type of work?
- What are some of the toughest problems you face?
- What college majors would set me up for this type of job?
- How does this job support and conflict with your personal life? How does it impact your lifestyle?
Then, show up on time and dressed as you were told. If you forgot to ask how to dress or you didn’t understand what they were describing, step it up: dress pants, a collared shirt, and dressy closed-toe shoes always make a good impression. Put your cell phone on silent mode, and keep it put away during the entire job shadow.
Shake their hand, introduce yourself by saying your name loud and clear, and make eye contact. Then, be a good listener and respond to any of their questions in your most clear and appropriate volume so they can hear your responses. Be sure to thank them at the end of the day. And mail or email a thank you when you get back home.
How can I evaluate the job shadow?
Afterward, reflect on your experience. Share your answers to the following questions with a parent or other trusted adult, and see what new insights you gain (and listen to the insights they have to share):
- Tell about your job shadow experience! What did you do?
- What surprised you most while on the job shadow?
- Was there anything that turned you off from this job? What did you learn are “deal breakers” in a job fit for you?
- What was most impressive about the person you shadowed?
- What advice did you receive from the person you shadowed?
- What action steps will you take because of this experience?
Preparing for and going on a job shadow can feel intimidating. But most students find they CAN handle it, and it provides incredible affirmation, or a redirection, of the job they’re interested in. Good luck!
By Kristin Ageton