5 best practices to prepare for your next OJT

1. Do the research

Do your research on the industry you plan to enter. What’s the nature of the work like? What kind of trends should you stay on top of?

Read up on the companies you want to apply to for your OJT. Which company aligns the most with your intended career path?

Answering these questions beforehand will help you find an OJT that matches the kind of work experience you’re looking for.

2. Prepare your CV

It doesn’t hurt to prepare your CV beforehand (even if you’re not applying for an OJT at the moment); it’s better than cramming it one week before application deadlines. 

For the sake of your career path, this is one of the many examples where the ‘due date’ is NOT the ‘do date’.

3. Prepare your cover letter

Think of your cover letter as a marketing pitch. It has to create a great first impression, enough to convince any reader that you are a worthy OJT candidate. 

You’ll need all the time you need to write a winning cover letter!

4. Eyeing out a good reference

Keep an eye out for professors and supervisors from school who can be your references.

References are great ways to establish credibility and professionalism when applying for OJTs. So it doesn’t hurt to have some references in mind for future career opportunities.

5. Planning your classes around it

While some students opt to take OJTs during their summer vacation, others prefer to take them alongside school.

A great way to manage your time for your OJT is by planning your school courses ahead. 

You can segment which classes to take in a certain semester, and block certain times of the day. Plan your schedule in the way that works best for you!

Conclusion

Overall, the best way to begin your OJT journey is to just start applying. OJTs are great ways to put yourself out there and to figure out what you want to do career-wise.

Start searching for OJT opportunities as early as now!