The aim of job shadowing is to enable a better understanding of the role of the staff member being shadowed and the work that they do.
We have found our job shadowing programme to have many potential benefits for both the parties involved and Aspire. It has helped to improve communication across departments and sites, is an excellent networking tool and facilitates the breaking down of barriers across the Company. Furthermore it is ideal for self-development and succession planning.
Most of all, colleagues that have been on the programme have found the experience to be enjoyable and rewarding.
Case Study
Liz Parry, Repairs Co-ordinator to Revenues Officer
Encouraged by her manager, Liz arranged to take part in job shadowing with an experienced Neighbourhood Officer. This took place one day per fortnight and continued for four occasions.
The job shadowing included home visits, visits to the courts, evictions, day to day duties and inspecting void properties.
In evaluation of the job shadowing process, Liz explained that this had provided her with a wealth of knowledge and experience and that she thoroughly enjoyed the whole process and felt a lot more equipped for future interviews.
Liz also requested to attend a Recruitment Workshop which was provided by the HR team to enable her to apply for vacancies.
This covered the initial process of how to complete an application form, shortlist scoring, what types of answers/ explanations are expected in interview and also presentation skills.
In February 2007, two vacancies became available for Revenues Officer posts. Liz applied for a post using the techniques gained from the Recruitment Workshop, and was successfully short listed. After a successful interview and presentation using her job shadowing experiences and knowledge Liz accepted one of the positions of Revenues Officer and started in her new role in April 2007
