What is shadowing?
Sometimes also called job shadowing, shadowing is a type of on-the-job training where an individual shadows or follows around a more experienced colleague to learn the skills required to perform a particular job at a workplace.
Typically, shadowing is done within internships and is seen as a cost-effective way of job training. However, it may also apply to employees looking to make a lateral move within their company and hoping to understand that particular field of study better.
Some organizations also utilize mentoring software, or corporate mentoring software, to provide companies and HR departments with solutions that manage and streamline business mentoring programs and connecting mentors to mentees.
Types of shadowing
Shadowing can be broken down into three different types, with each type serving a specific purpose. These include:
- Observation: This type is best for individuals looking to gain in-depth knowledge of what the job seems like daily. It typically involves walking through daily activities with another individual, including interacting with coworkers and clients, attending meetings, and anything else the position requires.
- Regular briefings: This type focuses only on specific activities that the host feels will aid in better understanding their role. In this type, an individual works near the host and is only advised on vital details to understand the host’s role. Also, the individual is given debriefs both before and after the experience.
- Hands-on: Now that the individual has observed the host performing critical job roles, it’s time to apply what they have learned and practice some of the required tasks. Since they are being supervised and guided through the task by the host, this is a quick and efficient way for a guest to learn new tasks.
Not every observation type may be possible depending on the type of arrangement or industry. That is why it is best to discuss what will work for the host before the experience begins.
Benefits of shadowing
When done correctly, shadowing can help an individual get a bird's eye view of everything a role entails and help them figure out if they are a good fit for the job. Other key benefits include:
- Provides valuable work experience. Shadowing is a great way for an individual to understand the industry and position. During this experience, they may even get to move from observation to applying the skills they’ve learned.
- Gives a snapshot of daily responsibilities. By seeing all the tasks and responsibilities a role requires, an individual is given a sneak peek into what a “day in the life” would look like if they were to choose this industry or specific job.
- Encourages networking. This type of experience is a great way to meet and engage with professionals in any field of interest, especially those with little to no professional experience. Along the way, an individual may also obtain professional references or even discover an experienced mentor.
- Helps to identify any areas of improvement. While shadowing, an individual can gain insight into the expectations for a given role. Afterward, they can review their notes from the experience and figure out both the hard and soft skills needed for the position, and if there are gaps they need to fill.
Shadowing best practices
To ensure that an individual has a successful shadowing experience, there are best practices to follow before, during, and after the shadowing experience. These recommendations will help both an individual and host get the most out of their experience.
- Research and prepare before arriving. Before an individual begins, it’s beneficial for them to learn as much as possible about the company, their clients, the person they are shadowing, and the job position itself. A great place to begin researching is by looking at the company website or LinkedIn page. Before arriving, it is recommended to list what they hope to get out of the shadowing experience to help set themselves up for success.
- Ask questions and take notes. Bringing a notepad or smart device will allow an individual to jot down any questions or observations during the shadowing experience. There may not always be the chance to ask questions in the moment, so having a notepad will help to the jog memory later. Or, observations can be recorded as voice notes.
- Communicate important details. As mentioned above, it is recommended that an individual prepares so their shadowing experience runs smoothly. To ensure a good first impression and overall experience, the host should be contacted in advance to learn more about the office dress code, expected start times, and their overall expectations for the shadowing experience.
- Follow up on the shadowing experience. An individual should follow up on an excellent shadowing experience by writing a handwritten thank you note or email expressing their gratitude for the experience. This is also a great opportunity for an individual to ask for feedback from the host. This valuable advice will help individuals progress as professionals in their chosen field.
Amanda Hahn-Peters
Amanda Hahn-Peters is a freelance copywriter for G2. Born and raised in Florida, she graduated from Florida State University with a concentration in Mass Media Studies. When she’s not writing, you’ll find Amanda coaching triathletes, cuddling up with a good book, or at the theater catching the latest musical.
