5 Top traits of a successful apprentice

Embrace these top traits to make the most of your apprenticeship

If you're on the hunt for a surefire pathway to a successful career, look no further than apprenticeships at AtkinsRéalis. Join our Talent Community to be the first to hear when our opportunities open.

But why choose an apprenticeship? Apprenticeships combine the best of both worlds – practical experience and formal education, plus research shows 90% of apprentices are offered permanent employment. It's a chance to learn from the experts in your chosen field while earning a wage. No student loans, just real-world learning and a steady income – sounds like a winning formula, right?

If you're looking to learn more broadly about apprenticeships before finding out the 5 top traits of a successful apprentice, we recommend the following pieces:

1. How to make your apprenticeship application stand out
2. What to expect on a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
3. Are apprenticeships a viable path to becoming an engineer?
4. How apprenticeships foster social connections
5. What are the pros and cons of an apprenticeship?

As a leading global consultancy in design, engineering and project management, with over 80 years of expertise at our disposal, our engineering apprenticeships are second to none. 

Whether you're looking at apprenticeships in engineering or a non-engineering role, you'll get to work with people committed to engineering a better future. By diving into an apprenticeship, you'll acquire practical skills and invaluable industry knowledge. 

Now, what traits should a successful apprentice-to-be possess? Here are five top traits to embrace and develop:

1. Adaptability

Embrace change and be open to learning new things. 

Flexibility will help you thrive in any situation. At AtkinsRéalis, you'll tackle real challenges and make meaningful contributions to projects from day one. 

Getting used to a working environment can present new challenges and routines. You'll find a flexible and supportive culture at AtkinsRéalis to help you ease in. We want you to look after your wellbeing and get the most out of your life inside and outside work.

2. Initiative 

There are plenty of opportunities for growth at AtkinsRéalis. Showing proactivity and taking initiative will get you far. Be eager to contribute and make a difference. And remember, it's not all about work – we foster an environment where you can be your authentic self, and reach your full potential. We're committed to creating inclusive work environments where everyone can thrive, and build a future to be proud of. 

You'll have exciting opportunities to make an impact through social value activities, like Lucy, a founding member of our Auditory Impairments Employee Community Group, which supports staff with hearing and auditory impairments.

3. Responsibility 

Take ownership of your work and commitments. Being accountable and reliable will earn you the trust of your mentors and supervisors. At AtkinsRéalis you'll be trusted to own your projects and drive your own development with the support of management and leadership. 

You're in charge of your future but you don't have to do it alone. You'll have a supportive early careers community, with professional and social networking groups. 

Don't just take our word for it. As Rowena shares:

One of the main benefits of joining an apprenticeship scheme is that I could work with other young people in the same situation as me. [...] It's great to have a strong support network of friends and colleagues working on the same path in life that I am.

4. Curiosity 

Ask questions, seek understanding, and be curious about the intricacies of your chosen business area or team. A hunger for knowledge will drive your development and lead to new opportunities. Why not start by connecting with our apprentices to learn first-hand about life at AtkinsRéalis, or explore some of our early careers projects. 

5. Communication 

Strong communication skills are vital for building relationships with colleagues, mentors and clients. A key part of this skill is having the tools to make meaningful connections in your work and with people.

When you join AtkinsRéalis on an apprenticeship, you'll get to learn from experts in their field, and use cutting-edge technology. We don't just talk the talk – digital is fundamental to our way of working. From our information hub about everything you need to know packed with insights from our young professionals to every element of the engineering process, digital transforms outcomes for our people, our data insights and our technology. 

FAQs

How do you succeed in an apprenticeship?

Succeeding in your apprenticeship is down to the traits we've discussed, the right support and mentorship, and the passion, drive, and desire to complete your training to move on to the next step in your early career.

If you keep refining the above traits and always seek help when you're unsure, you'll be able to identify what you need to iron out and work on. It also helps to look to build a solid support network, and that's exactly what we can offer you at AtkinsRéalis.

How do you smash an apprenticeship interview? 

When it comes to preparing for any early-career interview, you'll want to focus on the following things:

• Preparing for different styles of interview questions
• Researching the company 
• Highlighting why you're a good fit for the apprenticeship
• Show a genuine interest
• Practice your answers

Find apprenticeships at AtkinsRéalis

If you're ready to fast-track your career, embrace the journey of an apprenticeship. Master these top traits, and you'll be well on your way to a successful and fulfilling apprenticeship journey. Your success story begins here! Learn more about apprenticeships at AtkinsRéalis today.

Join our Talent Community to stay connected with our latest news, early careers information and to be the first to hear when our opportunities open.