After all that hard work, you’re finally a qualified social worker – congratulations! But now the reality of starting your first role is creeping up on you, right? No need to panic, because we asked our specialist consultants for some advice for those just starting out in the industry. Here’s what they had to say…
Tidy up that CV
First thing’s first, you need to polish your CV so that it is up-to-date and reflects the best version of you. For a quick-read guide on how to structure it, check out our blog post here.
Know your local resources
Keep notes of the names and numbers of your local services to save time in the future (this will impress your supervisors too!). We recommend putting this into the computer system so you/your colleagues can add to the list as you go.
Supervision is important
Be open with your line manager and never be afraid to ask for support if you need it. When you’re first starting out it’s natural to have lots of questions and showing your curiosity for the role will only ever be a good thing.
Refresh your knowledge
Unlike algebra, you’ll actually need to apply all that knowledge you acquired about legislation and policy to the real world. Make sure you’re up to scratch with current best practice and key concepts.
Write your notes up ASAP
As soon as you have time after a visit, make sure to complete your notes so that they are as accurate as possible and while they’re still fresh in your mind. This will give them more value in the future if they are as detailed as possible – especially for the service user.
It’s OK to say no
Try not to overstretch yourself just to please people. You are only one person at the end of the day and quality is always better than quantity in this line of work. This is more a trial and error process and you will soon learn what your workload limit is.
Don’t make false promises
If you don’t know something for certain, don’t mention it to the service user. This will avoid disappointment down the line and ensure expectations are managed so that everyone is on the same page.
Prioritise self-care
Last but not least, make time for you! Whether that’s running a bath, running around the park or running a movie night – it is so important to allow yourself time to switch off and refresh ready for the next busy day ahead.
Perhaps you’re a newly qualified social worker but still haven’t found a role? We can help you find what you’re looking for and support you throughout the whole process, including the interview stage as well as during your entire employment within that role.
Simply send us your CV and job preferences to [email protected] or call us on 0203 8929 340.
carlette Isaac
After all that hard work, you’re finally a qualified social worker – congratulations! But now the reality of starting your first role is creeping up on you, right? No need to panic, because we asked our specialist consultants for some advice for those just starting out in the industry. Here’s what they had to say…
Tidy up that CV
First thing’s first, you need to polish your CV so that it is up-to-date and reflects the best version of you. For a quick-read guide on how to structure it, check out our blog post here.
Know your local resources
Keep notes of the names and numbers of your local services to save time in the future (this will impress your supervisors too!). We recommend putting this into the computer system so you/your colleagues can add to the list as you go.
Supervision is important
Be open with your line manager and never be afraid to ask for support if you need it. When you’re first starting out it’s natural to have lots of questions and showing your curiosity for the role will only ever be a good thing.
Refresh your knowledge
Unlike algebra, you’ll actually need to apply all that knowledge you acquired about legislation and policy to the real world. Make sure you’re up to scratch with current best practice and key concepts.
Write your notes up ASAP
As soon as you have time after a visit, make sure to complete your notes so that they are as accurate as possible and while they’re still fresh in your mind. This will give them more value in the future if they are as detailed as possible – especially for the service user.
It’s OK to say no
Try not to overstretch yourself just to please people. You are only one person at the end of the day and quality is always better than quantity in this line of work. This is more a trial and error process and you will soon learn what your workload limit is.
Don’t make false promises
If you don’t know something for certain, don’t mention it to the service user. This will avoid disappointment down the line and ensure expectations are managed so that everyone is on the same page.
Prioritise self-care
Last but not least, make time for you! Whether that’s running a bath, running around the park or running a movie night – it is so important to allow yourself time to switch off and refresh ready for the next busy day ahead.
Perhaps you’re a newly qualified social worker but still haven’t found a role? We can help you find what you’re looking for and support you throughout the whole process, including the interview stage as well as during your entire employment within that role.
Simply send us your CV and job preferences to [email protected] or call us on 0203 8929 340.