Job Shadowing, the art of learning by observing other professionals

What is Job Shadowing and what is it for?

Job shadowing is a method or technique employed by companies, allowing workers to learn through the observation of the daily activities of other professionals.

During a job shadowing experience, the participant, known as the “shadow,” spends time with a host professional, closely observing their work, interactions, and decision-making processes. This hands-on approach allows the individual to gain practical insights into the industry, the workplace culture, and the skills required for the job. In general, a job shadowing experience offers a very realistic preview of a profession and a particular job position and helps individuals make informed decisions about their career choices.

However, job shadowing is a broad concept. Here, we will explain what it consists of and delve into the advantages of the type of experience that Mundus offers: international job shadowing.

Job Shadowing with the Erasmus+ program

In an ever-connected world, the pursuit of professional growth knows no boundaries. International job shadowing has emerged as a powerful tool, transcending geographical limitations to provide individuals with unique opportunities to gain invaluable insights into diverse work cultures. The European Union has been able to recognize this need and include job shadowing in its Erasmus+ program.

Erasmus+ is an EU-funded program that supports education, training, youth, and sport in Europe. Job shadowing within the Erasmus+ framework is particularly relevant for professionals, educators, or individuals working in the fields of education, training, and youth. Job shadowing in the Erasmus+ program aligns with the program’s objectives of promoting mobility, cooperation, and the exchange of knowledge and good practices among European countries.

Through the program, professionals in the educational and youth work sectors have the opportunity to travel to other countries for a training stay in companies or organizations within the same sector in the destination country.

Advantages of doing an Erasmus+ Job Shadowing

The advantages of job shadowing are limitless, emphasizing hands-on learning and career exploration. However, when we specifically consider international job shadowing facilitated by the Erasmus program, here are some of its significant benefits:

• Cultural exchange:

Participants gain insights into different cultural contexts, both in the workplace and in the broader community. This intercultural experience fosters tolerance, adaptability, and cultural awareness.

• Knowledge exchange:

Job shadowing in the Erasmus+ program contributes to the professional development of individuals by providing a practical learning experience. Participants can apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their job shadowing period to enhance their work upon returning to their home country. Additionally, they can share insights and practices from their home country with the destination country.

• Language learning:

Beyond the chance to learn the language in the daily life of the destination country and personally engage in a new or less familiar language, participants also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the technical aspects of their professional field and acquire language skills at a professional level.

• Logistical considerations:

Participants will be able to discover first-hand the logistical challenges that Erasmus mobility can pose. Many of the professionals who participate in these programs work in centers that also organize Erasmus experiences for their students, so it a fantastic first step to start preparing the student mobility.

• International networking:

Job shadowing is always a magnificent networking method, and, above all, at an international level, it also contributes to the internationalization of the participants’ center or any international project.