1 Learn the concept
The start of any project is the most complex and risky part. When you begin an apprenticeship, small misunderstandings about goals, hours or communication can grow later. In this lesson you learn how to onboard well: clarify expectations, agree how you will communicate and set up your first weeks for success.
2 See it in action
- Clarify goals: what does success look like at the end of three months?
- Agree communication: channels, response times and a check-in rhythm.
- Confirm access: the tools, accounts and files you need.
- Plan the first week: tasks, questions and a first deliverable.
Worked example
The first call
Questions to ask: what does success look like in three months? How often should we check in? Where do you want updates? Who do I go to if I am stuck?
Agreements to write down: three goals, a weekly 20-minute check-in, a shared folder and response times.
First task: a small one with a clear deadline.
Result to look for: by the end of week one, both of you know what good looks like.
3 Study an example
Example scenario
An apprentice and mentor spend the first call agreeing three goals, a weekly 20-minute check-in and a shared folder. By Friday of week one the apprentice has delivered a small first task. Both know what good looks like, so later feedback is easy.
4 Apply it and download
- List the questions you will ask in your first call.
- Draft your three-month goals for the mentor to review.
- Start your personal communication tracker.
Worksheet Onboarding checklist and communication trackerOpen, print or save as PDF