Career Advice
Your First 90 Days: The Apprentice's Survival Guide
Author: The Dirigo Pathways Team | Category: Career Advice
Your first 90 days on a job site aren't just a trial period—they are the foundation of your entire career. This is where you move from theory to practice and establish your reputation as a reliable, high-potential professional. Master these four habits, and you'll not only survive, but thrive.
### 1. Master the Unspoken Rules
Before you can master the craft, you must master the habits of a professional. This is the simplest yet most critical step.
* **Be Early:** "On time" is late. Arrive 15 minutes early, ready to work. * **Stay Ready:** Have your tools clean, organized, and on your person. Anticipate the next step and have the right tool ready before you're asked for it. * **Clean Relentlessly:** The most respected apprentices are the ones who are always sweeping, organizing materials, and cleaning up their workspace without being told. This demonstrates respect for the craft and the team.
### 2. Listen More Than You Speak
Your journeyman and site supervisors are your most valuable textbooks. Your primary job is to be a sponge. Absorb every conversation, every instruction, and every casual tip you overhear. Resist the urge to talk about what you know; focus on learning what you don't. The quiet, observant apprentice who truly listens learns infinitely faster than the one who is always talking.
### 3. Ask Strategic Questions
There are no dumb questions, but there are poorly timed ones. Never interrupt someone in the middle of a critical task. Instead, keep a small notebook, jot down your questions as they arise, and wait for a dedicated break or a quiet moment. A well-thought-out question asked at the right time shows you are engaged and thinking critically about the work.
### 4. Document Your Growth with a "Living Resume"
A paper resume can't capture the complexity of a finished project. From day one, document your journey. Take clear photos of your work (with permission). Make notes on the specific skills you learned, the materials you used, and the challenges you overcame. This is the core of the Dirigo Pathways "Living Resume"—a dynamic, verified portfolio that proves your capability to future employers. By tracking your progress, you aren't just building a project; you're building the evidence of your value.
These first three months will define you. Embrace the challenge, stay disciplined, and you'll build a reputation that opens doors for years to come.
