Guide
Taster placement: how to get the most out of it
Ask, prepare, take part, follow up. So that three days of trying out an occupation become a real chance.
A taster placement (Schnupperlehre) usually lasts two to five days. During this time you get to know an occupation, and the company gets to know you. Many apprenticeships go to people who did a taster placement there before.
Finding a place
- Many companies advertise taster placements, on Stifti too.
- If nothing is advertised, ask anyway. Many companies are happy to take people for taster placements, they just do not post it everywhere.
- Ask the people around you. Parents, relatives and neighbours often know someone.
Asking the right way
It is best to call. That comes across as brave and is often faster than an email. Prepare a few sentences beforehand:
- Say hello and your name.
- Say which grade you are in and which occupation you are interested in.
- Ask whether you may do a taster placement with them and when it would suit them.
- Ask what you should bring and who to go to on the first day.
How to make a call like this go well is explained in Calling a company.
If you prefer to write an email, keep it short: who you are, which occupation, which dates suit you. Attach your CV.
Tip: When you call, write down the person's name. Then you can use it in your confirmation email and on the first day.
Arrange it with your school
If the taster placement falls during school time, you need permission from your school. Every canton, and often every school, has its own rules for this. Ask your class teacher early which form you need and how many days are allowed.
Arrive well prepared
- Read on the company's website what it does.
- Think of two or three questions that really interest you.
- Ask beforehand what clothes are suitable. A workshop is different from an office.
- Plan your route and be there five minutes early.
- Bring something to write with.
During the taster placement
The company pays less attention to whether you can already do everything. What matters more is how you join in.
- Ask if you do not understand something. That shows interest.
- Offer to help when you have nothing to do.
- Your phone stays in your pocket, unless someone says otherwise.
- Be friendly to everyone, the apprentices too. They are often asked for their opinion.
Tip: Every evening, write down what you did and what you liked. These notes will help you later with your cover letter.
Afterwards
- Say thank you in person on the last day, and a few days later with a short email.
- Ask for a written assessment. Many companies fill in a taster report. It goes into your dossier.
- Ask whether and when they advertise apprenticeships and how you should apply.
And if the occupation turns out not to be for you: that is a result too. You now know more than before.