IDS HR Study 774, May 2004

Work placements

• Examines the attractions of work placements for individuals and employers and what they are trying to achieve
• Considers how placements are organised, including the selection and supervision arrangements
• Six detailed company case studies illustrating different types of work placements in a variety of contexts

The tendency to include a work experience element in further and higher education courses is increasing the demand for access to work placement schemes - so much so that demand for work placements usually exceeds supply. They are also growing in popularity because more employers are looking for practical work experience alongside academic qualifications when recruiting school-leavers and graduates.

Well-run schemes provide benefits for participants and employees alike. Regardless of their background, participants have the opportunity to build their skills and knowledge to make them a better prospect for permanent employment. For employers, gains come from: securing a competitive advantage in recruitment by establishing strong links with future job applicants; the completion of useful work that might not otherwise get done; providing development opportunities for existing staff; and their role as a valuable contribution to corporate social responsibility strategies.

Placements can last anything from a week to a year but typically involve work during a summer vacation. Drawing on a series of company case studies, the Study discusses how programmes are managed, how participants are chosen, the different types of placements, supervision arrangements and how programmes are evaluated. Ten tips on how to achieve successful placements are also offered.