work experience at eastside

our top ten tips for work experience students

Whilst working for Eastside, you are an official representative of the company, both on and off-site. A professional attitude in the office is essential and your behaviour reflects on the company's public reputation so please observe the following...

1. Be punctual! If it looks like you're going to be late, ring the office as soon as possible. Make sure any appointments or other commitments you have are flagged up well ahead of time.

2. Always have a polite and positive working attitude (smile!)

3. Hours are flexible and you have a full hour's lunch break, so there's no need to natter away on your mobile phone during office hours.

4. Keep personal music listening devices personal and out of the office.

5. Respect the people around you and the space you are working in.

6. Wear appropriate clothing. At Eastside we have a fairly relaxed policy when it comes to clothes. If you are interning in the office, smart casual is fine. There's no need to turn up suited and booted. However, it is not a good idea to turn up in tracksuit bottoms, skyscraper heels or a low-cut top (and most certainly not a combination of any of the above!) Note: If you are volunteering on a project or workshop, talk to the facilitator and make sure you are wearing gear appropriate to the activity.

7. Don't suffer in silence. If there's a problem, ask! We're a friendly team and happy to help with any queries, whether it's the internal phone system that's left you bamboozled, a task you're not quite sure how to handle or a question about the company, (Remember, we have a chain of responsibility in place to ensure that all queries or complaints are dealt with professionally and with discretion.)

8. Take initiative! If you have an idea, voice it. We're happy to listen to ideas from our volunteers and interns. You are an important part of the work we do and you might find that you have observed or found something we've missed. At Eastside we encourage the development of young people's skills, and this includes stepping up to the plate. Be confident and speak up.

9. Enjoy. We at Eastside are passionate about what we do, and are interested in working with people who share the love for the arts and the drive that make this company what it is today.

10. Remember, we are happy to provide references for our work experience students, as your help is invaluable to the running of Eastside. Future employers will be able to assess from your reference, whether they want to give you a job with their companies - Help us to help you!