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Job Shadowing:
An Overview

Job-shadowing is a close cousin of informational interviewing, but you can't beat the experience of learning about a company or career by experiencing it in person in the shadow of a working professional.

Check with your own school, local or state government agencies, and companies that interest you - all of these may offer job shadow programs! Once you've located someone to shadow, write a letter or an e-mail.

Don't be afraid to ask questions, attend meetings, and get introduced to as many people as you can. While your aim is to observe a typical work day, be open to unexpected opportunities like attending a trade show.

Send a thank you note! Reflect on your experience. If you eventually decide to apply for a job at the company, mention your job shadow and what you learned. Demonstrate company knowledge.

Job Shadowing Resources

Several websites offer valuable information on locating and connecting with job shadow programs. One company even offers a virtual job shadow through video profiles of professionals.

		Emmie Bates College Polaris Ventures Finance			Steven Villanova University Polaris Ventures Finance
		Brian Pomona College digg.com Technology			Simin Macalester College Novartis Healthcare
		Travis Vanderbilt University CareerBuilder.com Northwestern Mutual Chicago Tribune Sales			Jessica Central Michigan University Reebok Sports
		Cameron Brigham Young University Reebok Sports			Nicolette Columbia College of Chicago Reebok Sports
		Ben Boise State University Digitas Arnold Worldwide Advertising			Rashan Harvard University New Zealand Snowboarding Team Technology