This strategy can introduce workers to a particular position, and assist them with career decisions by identifying daily tasks, and the education and training required for a position and related positions. Workers will have a broader understanding of roles within the organization. Job shadowing serves as a coaching opportunity rather than a thorough training program.
JOB SHADOWING
WHAT
- A less experienced staff member follows a veteran staff member to learn the day-to-day procedures of a job, or aspects of a particular task, project or process.
WHY
- Provides learner with information about the organization and exposure to a particular position, possibly assisting individual(s) with career decisions. May be useful in workforce planning.
WHEN
- An individual seeks to know about a position in the organization.
HOW
- Identify experienced staff member and individual(s) who will shadow. Determine knowledge transfer goals and timeline.
PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Ensure that the experienced staff member is substantially more experienced and can provide, not only information on the job processes, but also job coaching. This is not a substitute for thorough on-the-job training; clarify up front the roles and goals.
LINKS & RESOURCES
TBD