What is Job Shadowing?

Job shadowing is a learning experience where individuals observe professionals performing their daily tasks to gain insights into a role or industry.

Why Does Job Shadowing Matter?

It provides practical exposure without full job responsibility, helping candidates explore careers before committing.

Key Elements of Job Shadowing

• Observation – Watching real work processes.
• Learning Opportunity – Asking questions and gaining insights.
• Short-Term Experience – Typically lasts hours to weeks.

The Role of Job Shadowing in Career Development

Shadowing helps career exploration and informs education or training decisions.

Common Challenges with Job Shadowing

• Limited opportunities in some fields.
• Passive role may restrict learning.
• Requires willing mentors.

Best Practices for Job Shadowing

• Prepare questions in advance.
• Show professionalism and gratitude.
• Reflect on the experience afterward.

Future of Job Shadowing

Virtual job shadowing is growing, allowing students to observe roles remotely.

Summary

Job shadowing helps individuals explore careers through observation.

Key Takeaways

• Provides firsthand exposure.
• Short-term and exploratory.
• Supports career decision-making.

Take Action Today

Exploring career options?
👉 Use Resumly’s Career Personality Test to identify roles to shadow.