Auckland trades trainees get more than just free fees

Tuesday, 20 November 2018, 10:05 am
Press Release: Maori and Pasifika Trades Training

Together we’ve helped more than 2300 Māori and Pasifika Aucklanders start their trades careers – but we can’t stop now. As you know there’s an urgent need for more qualified tradespeople, with a shortage of 30,000 skilled employees in New Zealand’s building and construction industry alone.

To help get the message out about our scholarships, we have created a press release supported by a social media campaign and video. We encourage you to share these with your audience and networks.

You can find our press release here.

Working through hard times

When you see someone succeeding in their career, it’s easy to assume their life has always been great. But 28-year-old engineering apprentice Sherya Hetaraka knows from personal experience that isn’t necessarily true. After losing her dad in 2015, she battled depression and had to learn how to ask for help. Find out how Sherya got through the most difficult time in her life – and worked her way into the trades.

A few years ago, Sherya Hetarata’s life looked good from the outside. She had a great job at Griffins Foods, having worked her way up from packer to second-in-command. She was managing a crew of more than 20 people – despite being one of the youngest on the team.

In reality, she was going through the hardest time of her life. Her father had passed away, meaning Sherya lost her best friend and her strongest source of support at the same time.

Although it was difficult, she eventually sought help by talking to her bosses at Griffins.

“It took me a while, but I opened up with my bosses and they were the ones who helped me into seeing a counsellor. Because I got that help and support, I didn’t need to take time off work.”

Opening up

After seeking help, Sherya was diagnosed with depression and started taking antidepressants. She also had fortnightly visits with her doctor and a counsellor for nearly a year.

“I got peace of mind from the counselling,” she says.

“I’m the kind of person who doesn’t like putting my struggles onto family or friends, because I’m the one who they all come to with their problems. My dad was the only person I went to about everything. So once he had passed it got real difficult.

“But talking about it with a counsellor was a lot easier. I knew they didn’t know me at all, so I felt like they couldn’t judge me.”

Mental health challenges are common in New Zealand, with nearly half of Kiwis experiencing a mental health problem in their lifetime.

If you’re having a difficult time like Sherya was, the most important step is to ask for help.

“Talk about it. It gets easier. Focus on yourself instead of trying to make other people happy. That’s where I think I was depressed quite a bit, because I was too worried about how to fix everyone else’s problems and not my own. Talking about it helps heaps, plus doing something you enjoy.”

If you’re going through a hard time, it’s important to seek help and remember you’re not alone.

“At times it might seem hard and you might think you can’t do it,” says Sherya. “But don’t be shy to ask for help because everyone needs help sometimes.”

Top Trainee, Sherya Hetaraka
Sherya was awarded top trainee for Mechanical Engineering at the MPTT Exit Event held in July 2018.
Choosing the trades

While Sherya was working on her mental health, she was also thinking about a career change.

“I had a good job but it wasn’t something I could see myself doing for another 10 years. I started thinking about what I wanted to accomplish in my life and how I could make my dad proud.”

Sherya, whose iwi is Te Arawa and Ngāti Kahu, took time to think the decision through and spoke to her boss about the potential career change.

“I was stuck between engineering and social work. I’ve always wanted to help others, especially kids – mainly troubled youth with very tough backgrounds. I wanted them to know that someone cares and that things aren’t always gonna be hard.

“So I sat down with my boss. His wife was a social worker so they had done a lot of youth activities, youth camps and helping out the homeless. He explained that it’s one of the hardest jobs you can have. You need a strong heart that cannot be broken so easily due to the fact you can’t get emotionally involved.

“Hearing everything he said, I knew mentally it would take a toll on me because seeing struggling kids breaks my heart.”

Sherya had dabbled in engineering at Griffins, and the support she received from engineers in her team convinced her the trades was the right path.

“A lot of the engineers helped me out and I learned how to fix my own problems on the machines. Engineering was something I thought I might enjoy doing as a job.”

“I like taking things apart and putting them back together. I’ve always been like that. The job is exactly what I used to do when I was a kid – take things apart, put them back together. Only now it’s more extreme.”

In 2017, she handed in her resignation and began studying Mechanical Engineering Level 3 at Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT).

Giving back

While studying engineering, Sherya discovered that trades skills are a great way to give back to the community. She joined a volunteer project organised by MPTT, where she and other trainees did some mahi for RāWiri Community House in Manurewa.

“Our project was to restore their community vege garden that was destroyed from a car driving through their fence and straight over their vege garden boxes. We weeded all the planter boxes, trimmed back all the harakeke around the community house, fixed all the planter boxes, painted the fence and replanted all the veggies.”

For Sherya, the best part was meeting the workers at the community house.

“They are amazing at what they do. These ladies do a lot of mahi for our homeless. They bathe them, feed them and care for them every week. Being a part of the project was one of the best experiences I’ve had since I started studying.”

Having finished her pre-trades course, Sherya has now been awarded a valuable three-year engineering apprenticeship at Griffins and is on her way to getting qualified.

 

Where to get help
Your doctor

If you think you need help, a good place to start is with your GP. They can assess you, help you make a plan for your treatment, and connect you with mental health professionals like a counsellor or psychologist.

 

Helplines

Helplines mean you can kōrero with a trained person over the phone for free. You can talk about how you’re feeling, or what to do if you know someone who may need help.
Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor

  • Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP)
  • Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
  • Healthline – 0800 611 116
  • Samaritans – 0800 726 666
  • Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757 or free text 4202
  • Youthline: 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz

 

Websites that can help
  • SPARX.org.nz – an online e-therapy tool provided by the University of Auckland that helps young people learn skills to deal with feeling down, depressed or stressed
  • www.depression.org.nz – includes The Journal online help service
  • The Lowdown is a website to help young New Zealanders understand depression and anxiety from their own perspective.

 

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

How to negotiate with your boss

Want a pay rise or more flexible work hours? It could be as simple as asking your boss. But it’s not as easy as flicking them a text message – if you want your boss to take your request seriously, you need to show that you take it seriously too. These tips will help you talk to your boss and ask for what you want – even if you’re nervous.

So you like your job and the team you work with, but you wish you were earning more. Or maybe work would be perfect, if only you could adjust your hours. The best way to go from a good job to a great job isn’t always to apply for a new role – try asking your boss for what you want first.

But what should you say, and what happens if they don’t say yes? Here’s how to negotiate with your boss and get the job you want.

Meet in person

Whether you’re asking for more money or shorter hours, always meet with your boss in person. Don’t try to negotiate by email, and definitely don’t do it by text.

By meeting in person, you’re showing your boss you take the conversation seriously. This helps ensure they give proper thought to your request.

Get your facts straight

Before approaching your boss, do some research. For example, if you’re hoping for a pay rise, find out whether your current pay is higher or lower than average. Check out websites like CareersNZ or ask other people working in your trade. This will help you work out what to ask for.

Caroline Harris from ServiceIQ says you should make sure you know what result you want before you meet with your employer.

“Be clear about what you’re trying to achieve when talking with your boss.”

If you know what your goal is, you can then clearly communicate that to your boss.

It’s okay to be nervous

Mahalia O’Conner, 25, was enjoying her job at Autoterminal in Manukau. But with a six-year-old daughter, it was difficult for her to work 7am-5pm like the rest of the team.

“My working hours were a bit long for my daughter. She was going to before-school care at 6am and I was picking her up from after-school care.”

Mahalia didn’t find it easy to ask for shorter hours, but she didn’t let nerves hold her back.

“It was pretty nerve-wracking approaching my boss – but I just had to do it. You can only ask.”

Whether you’re asking for a pay rise or more flexibility, Mahalia says it helps to remember your boss wants you to be happy in your job so you’ll work hard and stay with the company for longer.

“You need a life outside of work. And it goes both ways – you need your job, but you’re an asset to your employer as well.”

Practise

One way to deal with nerves and help you feel prepared is to practise what you’ll say when you meet with your boss, says Caroline.

“Practise before your meeting with a friend or family member. Prepare for the answer to be ‘yes’, ‘no’ or ‘maybe later’.”

That way, you’ll feel more ready to talk to your boss. There’s no need to memorise a script – just be clear on what your goal is and the points you want to make.

Give a reason

Let your boss know why you want what you’re asking for, like Mahalia.

“I asked my boss whether I could do shorter hours. I just explained the situation and told him it was because of my daughter’s school hours, and he was okay with it.”

If you’re asking for a pay rise, it’s better to talk about what you bring to the job than to point out how expensive your rent is.

For example, if you’ve learned new skills or taken on new responsibilities since you started the job, those are good reasons for your boss to pay you more.

What if they don’t say yes?

As Mahalia found, even if your boss can’t give you everything you ask for, they might meet you in the middle.

“At first I asked if I could work 9am-3pm, and my boss asked if it would be okay for me to start later but still work until 5pm. So it was a bit of a compromise. Now I can drop my daughter off at school in the mornings, which makes a big difference.”

If your boss says ‘no’ to your request, ask if there’s anything you can do to make it possible in the future. For example, if you’re hoping for a pay rise and your boss turns you down, ask if you can take on more responsibility to earn a raise at a later date.

How to turn your employment trial into a career

90 Day Trial Period Countdown

**Updated November 2019**

Once you’re offered a job, there’s often one more challenge before you’re a permanent staff member – the trial period. Trials can seem scary, but if you know what your goals are and what employers are looking for, the trial period is a great time to show what you’re made of. Here’s how to impress your new boss and turn your trial into a pathway to getting qualified.
What are trial periods?

When you first start a job, your employer might want to have you work for them on a trial basis for a few months. As of May 2019, only an employer with 19 or fewer employees can use trial periods.

A trial period means both you and your new boss can suss each other out before committing to a long-term working relationship.

During a trial period, you’ll work and get paid as normal and you should be treated the same as any other employee. But if for some reason it doesn’t work out, you or the employer can end the relationship more easily than if you were already a permanent member of staff.

Many trial periods last 90 days. They can be shorter than that, but not longer. You can find out more about how trial periods work on the employment.govt.nz website.

Getting personal

Trial periods can sound scary. But remember, you’re not expected to know everything or be super skilled in your trade.

Mostly, your employer just wants to make sure you’re reliable and have a good attitude, says MPTT navigator Shirley Murray from the Solomon Group.

“Turn up every day, have a good attitude, be drug and alcohol free, show initiative and be prepared to listen and engage.

“What we hear all the time from employers is they’d prefer tauira to have a good attitude and time management skills and be keen to learn than to have heaps of experience.

Speak up

Good communication skills can impress your boss even more than your ability in your trade.
It can feel weird at first, but it’s important to be honest and upfront about any issues you have. Even if you think your boss might not be happy about what you have to say, they’ll appreciate that you told them about it.

Here are some things you might want to talk to your boss about:

  • Let them know what your goals are (like getting an apprenticeship or being the site manager one day), and ask them for advice on how you can get there.
  • If you have family commitments you might need to take care of, like picking your kids up from daycare if they get sick, talk to your boss about it early on. That way, they won’t be caught off-guard if it happens.
  • If you have a health issue or personal circumstances that might impact your work, telling your boss about it means they can better support you in your job.
Start early

Your trial period is also a chance for the employer to consider you as a future apprentice.

An apprenticeship is more than a job. It’s an agreement between you, your employer and an apprenticeship provider, and it’s the best path to getting qualified in your trade.

The first step to getting an apprenticeship is to let your employer know that’s your goal – and you should do that as soon as possible.

Not all employers take on apprentices. That’s because having an apprentice means committing to helping them get qualified, and not all companies have the resources to do that. So Shirley says it’s a good idea to find out early on if an apprenticeship is possible.

“I recommend establishing whether there is the possibility of an apprenticeship prior to your initial interview, just in case there is not one being considered by the employer.”

That way, your employer will know you want an apprenticeship from the start and can help you work towards achieving that goal.

Keep communicating

Even if you told your employer that you’re looking for an apprenticeship when you first met with them, you might still need to remind them about it later.

Remember, your boss has a lot to think about, so it’s helpful to them if you bring up the topic rather than waiting for them to remember to talk to you about it. This also shows your initiative and enthusiasm – both qualities employers look for in an apprentice.

But you don’t have to do it alone. Your MPTT navigator and your apprenticeship provider are both there to help, says Shirley.

“Get your employer’s contact details so you can to bring that information back to your support people – such as your MPTT navigator, apprenticeship provider, or tutor. That way, they have the opportunity to talk to the employer directly on your behalf.”

You’ll find contact details for all MPTT navigators on our contact page. To get in touch with an apprenticeship provider, visit their website or ask your navigator to put you in touch with them.


Not sure who your apprenticeship provider will be? The list below shows some of the biggest providers depending on your trade:

  • BCITO (building and construction)
  • MITO (automotive)
  • Competenz (butchery, refrigeration and air conditioning, welding and fabrication)
  • Skills (electrical, plumbing and gasfitting)
  • Connexis (infrastructure)
  • HITO (hairdressing)
  • Primary ITO (horticulture and landscaping)
  • ServiceIQ (hospitality)

Money tips to get you cashed up

Where to start?
What you do with your money makes a big difference to your future. Good money management skills can help you put a house deposit together, save you from stressing about debt, set a good example for your kids, and create a positive legacy for your whānau.

Being good with money is a skill you can learn – and you don’t need to wait until you’re earning heaps. In fact, the best time to start is right now.

This advice from Linda McCallum, loans officer at Ngā Tangata Microfinance, will help you get on the right track.

Where to start

What’s the first thing you want to do when you get paid? It’s probably not to pay your rent, settle a power bill or set aside petrol money. But before you start spending on fun stuff, the number one thing you should do is make sure your financial commitments are covered.

“Get your regular commitments sorted, then form your lifestyle around that,” says Linda.

Once you know how much you need to pay for your expenses, you’ll know how much you have left to save and spend.

Don’t over-commit

Try not to take on too many financial commitments, especially when you’re just starting out. For example, instead of buying a new phone with an expensive plan, maybe you could make do with your current phone until you’ve been working for a while.

“People just get used to whatever lifestyle they’ve got,” says Linda. “When you get paid you might think, ‘I’m going to buy this because I deserve it’, and you get used to having those things.”

She advises sticking with the basics that you really need, at least while you’re getting qualified.

“If all of a sudden you’ve got money you might go, ‘Great, now I can get a new car, I can join a gym, I can buy a new phone’. But I tell you, it’s not a good idea to have too many financial commitments.”

Be careful when buying a car

The biggest money pitfall to avoid?

“Definitely don’t go and buy an expensive car with a high-interest loan,” says Linda. “It absolutely kills people financially – it’s devastating.”

So avoid anything that offers you fast access to cash – you’ll usually pay heaps of interest in the long run. Remember, buying a car is a big decision, so take your time before you commit.

“If all of a sudden you get offered a job and you think you need to get a car really quickly, that’s when people make a mistake and sign up for high interest terms,” says Linda.

If you do need a loan, Linda recommends applying to the Salvation Army for a StepUp loan. You’ll need to show you’re earning money to qualify, so if you’ve just been offered a job, see if you can temporarily get to work using Uber, public transport or even a cheap scooter until money is officially coming in.

And don’t forget – cars are an ongoing expense. So while you should look for a cheaper car when you’re starting out, you should still get it checked by a mechanic, says Linda.

“If you can get a cheaper car that’s had a mechanical check, you can run that for a couple of years and then you’re a bit more set up to by a more expensive one.

“And remember you’ll need insurance. If you get a fancy car, you’ve got to insure it, and that’s expensive if the car cost a lot, especially if you’re under 25. So that’s another reason to get a less expensive car – but still a good car that’s had a mechanical check.”

Once you have a car, make sure you set aside money each week to cover the running costs so you’re not caught out if the radiator suddenly starts leaking or you need new tyres.

“I’d recommend setting aside about $20 a week for a car,” says Linda. “You need to be realistic about that so you can keep your car running well, especially so you can get to work. Keeping your car going is keeping your job going.”

Where to start?
Before you start spending on fun stuff, the number one thing you should do is make sure your financial commitments are covered.
Start small

You might think you’ll start saving once you’re earning big bucks. But even saving small amounts can make a big difference to your lifestyle down the track, says Linda.

“Save something small and realistic so that you keep doing it and you don’t start resenting it. You still want to have some spending money.”

Over the years, you’ll find saving small amounts regularly really adds up, and you’ll be glad you didn’t put it off. For example, saving just $20 a week will add up to more than $1000 a year. If you leave it in your bank account and don’t touch it, you’ll find the interest the bank pays you will grow significantly too.

And if you’re not already signed up for KiwiSaver, it’s well worth doing. Even if you just put in the minimum amount, you’ll get extra money from your employer and the government as a reward – adding up to much more than you’d be able to save on your own.

Just remember, KiwiSaver can usually only be used for retirement or buying your first home. So having some savings in your bank account is still a good idea because you can access it when you need it.

Get help if you need it

As an MPTT trainee, you can always ask your navigator for advice. If you need help with your finances, don’t be afraid to ask.

If you already have debt or need help making a budget, consider signing up with a budgeting service, says Linda.

“Wherever you’re living, go along to your local budgeting service and say, ‘I need to get a budget done so I know what to do with my pay’. Then once you’ve gone along, at least you’re registered there. It’s somewhere you can always go back to if you’re in trouble.”

Once you’re registered with a budgeting service – which is usually free – you might qualify for a no-interest loan from Ngā Tangata Microfinance if you need one down the track, such as for car repairs.

To help you manage your money, check out the links below.

Trainees prove their mettle

Three newly-qualified welding and fabrication students have found full-time employment at D&H Steel thanks to their hard work – and help from their MPTT navigator.

Robert Rudolph, Valusaga Iopu and Atanasia Galiga were offered jobs at D&H Steel after demonstrating their work readiness skills through unpaid work experience during the last few months of their course.

Work experience is a great way to get to know potential employers and show you’re ready to be hired. Although it’s usually unpaid, you’ll get valuable experience to add to your CV – or even better, a job offer at the end of it.

Well connected

It’s tough finding work when you’re just starting out and have no contacts in the industry. That’s why the MPTT programme ensures trainees aren’t doing it alone.

Each trainee has a navigator who’s there to offer advice, mentoring, and help finding employment.

MPTT navigator Tu Nu’uali’itia, from Oceania Career Academy, took a small group of trainees along to West Auckland company D&H Steel so they could see what life on the job would be like.

“We all met and travelled out together,” says Tu. “I prepared them beforehand, such as making sure they were ready to ask questions about the work and apprenticeships.”

The visit turned into an informal job interview, with D&H Steel offering the trainees valuable work experience.

“The guy showing them around got an inkling that these are quality guys, so he said yep, you can start working here. He said, ‘You won’t get paid and it’s 10-hour days, but if you want to be here you can come.’ All the trainees signed up.”

Robert, Valusaga and Atanasia made time to do one or two days of work experience each week for the last three months of their course.

Showing spark

Work experience is a great way for trainees to show an employer they’re ready to work and have a positive attitude.

“It makes it easier to get the job,” says Valusaga, aged 29. “The boss knows you’re a hard worker and can see you’re keen.”

The trainees quickly impressed their future boss with their enthusiasm and willingness to work, says Tu.

“They just wanted to get out there and work, and even took on some night shifts to check it out.

“Because of their attitude, the boss was very happy. He said, ‘These guys you gave us are amazing – they’ve showed their colours and commitment and I’m happy to offer them jobs’. He could see they were work-ready so he picked them up.”

Work experience is one way to show your value as an employee and get started in a trade, and the hard work can lead to much bigger things, says Tu.

“These trainees have families and they’re working really hard to do something big. So they bought into the idea of personal sacrifice. They’re driving their own futures and will one day be able to get qualified and start their own businesses.”

Amped to work

Valusaga, who is now working full-time at D&H Steel, had been working at a general engineering company as a labour hand. When he heard about the MPTT scholarship, he decided to gain his New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering.

He stopped working while he was studying, which became more difficult when he and his wife had a baby on the way – a daughter now age 5. But Valusaga saw the value in doing work experience to build his skills, get to know a potential employer, and get his foot in the door.

“I saw the environment at D&H Steel was really good. They’re really friendly and the manager, Cameron, was real good to us.”

Valusaga – whose mother is from Saleimoa on the Samoan island of Upolu and his father from Sale’aula on the island of Savai’i – now has his sights set on an apprenticeship, which he is due to discuss with his new boss after three to six months of full-time work.

Valusaga Iopu
Valusaga Iopu with his wife and daughter

“It worked out well,” says Tu. “They’re starting jobs and will eventually move into apprenticeships.”

Ongoing support

Even now that they’ve earned full-time jobs, these hard-working trainees will continue to be coached by Tu. This will help them to continue to advance in their careers.

“That’s the beauty of navigation,” says Tu. “Because we build trusting relationships with the trainees, we can actually see their shortcomings. So we can always be telling them the areas they need to improve and we can speak that into them.

“We look at the person, not necessarily the skills. Hopefully if they’ve got a dream and a goal, we just encourage them to keep aspiring to that.”

He says the trainees have put in the hard yards and are now reaping the benefits – and as a navigator, he’ll continue to offer his support.

“I just want to encourage them that they can do it and I think that’s where the navigation comes in. Our role is to keep telling them they can do this. Then they know they’re supported so if they fall over, they know there’s someone there to help them back up.”

D&H Steel workers
Cameron Rogers (D&H Steel) second left, with MPTT trainees from left, Robert Rudolph, Valusaga Iopu and Atanasia Galiga – at D&H Steel’s facility in Henderson

 

5 steps to smash your goals

Smashing your goals
Do you dream of owning a house, running your own business, or making enough money to help out your whanau?

Whatever your biggest dreams are, you probably won’t get there by going through the same old routines. You need to stop and make sure you’re working towards the future you want – rather than just working.

According to MPTT navigator John Kotoisuva, the key to being unstoppable is to get fired up about where you’re heading in life.

“Life should be exciting. Trapped inside everyone is a leader. A leader knows what they want and where they are going; a leader has vision of a preferable future.

“But not everyone becomes the leader they could be, because they’ve been programmed not to dream big.”

So how do you get to where you want to be in life? Follow these steps to achieve your goals and make your dreams a reality.

1. Visualise your dream

Goals should take you closer to the life you want. So before you decide what your specific goals are, take some time to picture where you’d like to be five years from now, says John.

“You’ve got to set your own goals for the way you see yourself living in the next five years, especially after you become qualified in the trades.”

Knowing where you want to end up is the key to motivating yourself to set and achieve your goals.

“When you start something in life, it’s your faith and determination in your dream that will get you to finish it,” says John.

“When you visualise what you want your future to look like, you get turbo-charged emotionally because you’re excited about where you want to be.”

So think about what you want your life to look like – not just your career. That includes where you want to live, the lifestyle you’d like, and how you want to spend your time. Also think about the legacy you’ll leave behind. Ask yourself, what would you like your grandchildren to say about you?

“If you set your mind to that, you’ll become unstoppable,” says John. “I’ve seen young people put that vision in place, and nothing can stop them. They just keep going because they want to get there.“

2. See your trade as a vehicle

If you want a career in the trades industry, you’ll obviously need to choose a trade to learn. But the trade itself doesn’t have to be your dream or your passion – it’s a way of achieving the future you want, says John.

“You’ve got to see your trade as a vehicle that will take you into your future and influence the quality of your life”.

“The trade is not the beginning and end of everything. It’s your journey in life that must be important to you and will be the biggest motivating factor for you.”

Remember, a trade involves practical skills you can learn – so it’s not about being a naturally talented tradesperson.

“The trade needs to be put into its proper perspective, because no-one was born to be a welder,” says John. “Welders are made, carpenters are made. And people’s careers do change along the way.”

3. Make a plan

Now it’s time to get practical. Think about where you are now compared to where you want to be in the future. What steps can you take to achieve your dream, and when would you like to do this by?

“It’s very powerful when you have that vision and you smack a date on that dream,” says John.

“You need to have a plan. The gap between where you are now and what you want in the future is called the plan.”

You don’t need to know all the steps right now – you just need to know what to do next to move closer to your dream. For example, if in five years you want to be your own boss, your next step might be choosing the trade you want to learn, and then completing a pre-trades course. As you go along, the next steps will become more clear to you.

The key is to focus on growing your skills and the value you have to offer. Even if your goals require you to earn plenty of money, the best way to achieve that is to focus on personal growth and building your skills, says John.
“Money is just a by-product – it will follow if you’re good at what you do”.
“You increase your pay as you increase your value as an individual. To increase your value, you need to grow as an individual.”

4. See challenges as a learning experience

No matter what you’re working towards, there will always be difficult times.

When we journey towards something new, it’s never easy,” says John. “It’s always an uphill battle because we’re going into new territory that we’ve never been before.”

So when you face challenges, it’s important to keep your dream in mind. Picturing the future you’re working towards will remind you why it’s worth the challenge.

“What can get someone to quit is when they start focusing on the difficulties and lose sight of their vision and where they want to go,” says John.

And remember, challenges are also a sign that you’re growing as a person and working towards something worthwhile.

“You will never escape hurdles and challenges. Like they say, no pain no gain. Challenges are a sign that you’re gaining. You never grow in your comfort zone.”

5. Stay flexible

No matter how great your plan is, you’ll probably need to adjust it along the way. That’s because as you grow, your goals will likely change too.

“When we journey along in life we use a certain vehicle, such as a trade, to move into the future,” says John. “The most exciting thing is when you move from one vehicle to the next, you discover more about who you are and what you’re capable of doing.”

So when you’re no longer feeling challenged, it’s time to make a change. For example, after getting qualified as a carpenter and working for someone else for a while, it might then be time to take on the challenge of being a self-employed contractor.

“When you start to plateau – when it’s become just a job and no longer challenges you – that’s when it’s time to move on,” says John. “That takes you to another level and it’s exciting, because there are new challenges.”

So if you start to get bored with your work, be open to making changes to your plan.


“Who knows what the future has in store for you? It’s such an exciting thing to take on new challenges and grow as a person.”

 

Trainees rebuild garden after car crash

community project in south auckland
A much-loved community garden that was destroyed by a rogue vehicle has been restored, thanks to a group of MPTT trainees.

RāWiri Community House provides services to the Manurewa community including free drivers licence theory courses, helping people search for jobs and working with homeless people in the area.

Earlier this year, the gardens at the centre were damaged when a car went through the front fence.

Eight MPTT trainees from Manukau Institute of Technology got stuck in to help and made the project their own – with some even making artwork for the fence around the garden.

At MPTT, we encourage all our trainees to get involved with community projects. Not only is it a chance to use their skills – and learn new ones – it adds meaning to their mahi by giving back to the community.

Read more about the RāWiri project on the Stuff website.

Iani Nemani of Competenz
Iani Nemani from Competenz who helped setup this community project

Louisa Wall at Rāwiri Community House
Louisa Wall with Kirk Sargent at Rāwiri Community House

Linked posts:
Sherya, living our values
Working together as one to achieve

Four types of jobs – which one leads to a career?

Job vs Apprenticeship
You know you need to get a job in the trades industry, but did you know there are different types of job contracts? The type of job you take on can be the difference between getting paid to build a career in your trade, and just making some cash.

The difference between job contracts is confusing for many trainees.

“At first I didn’t really understand the differences,” says MPTT trainee Toni Rhind. “I thought if I was working in my trade, it must count towards my apprenticeship.”

But it’s not as complicated as it sounds. There are basically four types of job contracts when you’re starting out in the trades:

1. An apprenticeship
2. A job that leads to an apprenticeship
3. A job that just pays the bills (e.g. being a labourer)
4. Working as a contractor

Read on to learn about the different types of contracts, and work out which one is right for you. And if you have questions about a job offer or contract, have a chat with your MPTT navigator.

YOUR BEST OPTION: An apprenticeship

If you want a long-lasting career in your trade, an apprenticeship is what you’re aiming for.

An apprenticeship is more than a job – you’ll be working towards your qualification. According to apprenticeship provider MITO, that means completing practical assessments at work to prove you can do certain tasks, as well as doing some off-job training in a classroom. When you’ve finished your apprenticeship, you’ll be qualified in your trade.

How do you know if you’re in an apprenticeship rather than just a job? Hayden Toomer from BCITO, which provides apprenticeships in building and construction, says an apprenticeship is a contract between three parties:

1. You, the trainee
2. Your employer
3. An apprenticeship provider, such as:

BCITO (building and construction)
MITO (automotive)
Competenz (butchery, refrigeration and air conditioning, welding and fabrication)
Skills (electrical, plumbing and gasfitting)
Connexis (infrastructure)
HITO (hairdressing)
Primary ITO (horticulture and landscaping)
ServiceIQ (hospitality)

“All three parties need to agree to it,” says Hayden. “If you’re starting an apprenticeship with us, BCITO will come out and visit you. We’ll run through the full process with the trainee, show them what’s involved, get all the contracts signed and arrange the payment of annual fees. If that hasn’t happened, there’s no apprenticeship.”

According to Hayden, you’ll have the best chance of scoring an apprenticeship if:

You’re up-front about what you want. “I believe when a young person meets a prospective employer, they need to tell them, ‘Look, I just finished a pre-trades course, I’m really keen to be involved in the construction industry and I want to complete my apprenticeship to become a qualified carpenter.’ It’s about the trainee being involved in their own future and being proactive.”

You work hard. “It’s about doing yourself a favour by turning up, working hard, having a good attitude and being a team player,” says Hayden.

You know you’re an apprentice when:
  • You have an agreement with both your employer and an apprenticeship provider.
  • You’ve paid a fee, or your employer has paid a fee, to the apprenticeship provider.
  • You’re working towards getting qualified. As you learn and practise new skills, you’ll record what you’ve done and your employer will sign off on it.
  • As well as working, you might attend classes at a polytechnic, such as Unitec or Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT).
Advantages:
  • You’ll be getting paid to learn.
  • You’ll be working towards your qualification.
  • Your employer will be actively helping you build your skills.
  • Once you’re qualified, you’ll be in high demand and can earn a lot more money.
Keep in mind:
  • Apprentices may get paid a bit less than labourers and hammerhands – but remember you’ll soon be earning a lot more when you’re qualified, says Hayden. “If you’re not in an apprenticeship, your pay rate may not increase over time, whereas with an apprenticeship you’ll increase the rate you’re paid as you learn more. Give up the slightly higher money now to get your apprenticeship, and once you’ve got your trade, you’ll get good money consistently.”
  • If you start an apprenticeship and then get offered another apprenticeship for a bit more pay, think twice before you change employers, says Hayden. “An apprenticeship is a contract, and by changing employers you’ll break that contract. Then you’ll probably need to go through another trial period with your new employer before continuing your apprenticeship.”
Case Study: Waru Pairama
With his solid work readiness skills, Waru managed to land an apprenticeship after just a month of working for KB Construction. “I think it was just, you know, being organised,” says Waru. “I had my drivers licence, I had a car, I had good references – my manager and rugby league coach backed me and said I had a good attitude. It was about ticking all the boxes.”

Scholarship award ceremony

A GOOD OPTION: A job that leads to an apprenticeship

When an employer takes you on as an apprentice, they’re investing time and money in training you. So before they commit to your apprenticeship, they’ll often want you to complete a trial period.

During your trial, you’ll be employed and paid by the company, but you won’t be working towards your qualification yet. After a set amount of time that you agree on with your employer (such as 90 days), you’ll start the apprenticeship.

Hayden says this is a good way to get started.

“I think the hardest thing is to get a job in the industry. Once you’ve got a job, whether or not you start your apprenticeship immediately or six months or 12 months down the track, it’s all valuable learning.”

However, make sure your employer knows you want to become an apprentice, and ask them how you can get there.

“You need to set the stage right at the start, so the employer knows they’re not just hiring a hammerhand or a labourer,” says Hayden.

You know your job is leading to an apprenticeship when:
  • You’ve talked to your employer and agreed on a trial period before your apprenticeship starts. It’s a good idea to ask to get it in writing, to make sure you’re on the same page.
  • The company has had apprentices before (unless it’s a small company and you’ll be their first apprentice). This shows they have a process in place for getting their workers qualified.
Advantages:
  • You can make sure you like your boss and your team before you commit to an apprenticeship.
  • You can start gaining on-the-job experience and getting paid immediately.
  • You know what you need to do to move into an apprenticeship.
Keep in mind:
  • It’s up to you to let your employer know you’d like an apprenticeship.
  • There’s no perfect time to start an apprenticeship so just begin as soon as you can, says Hayden. “A lot of people procrastinate and say ‘I’ll get onto my apprenticeship later; I’m not ready to do it yet; I’m not sure if I really want to do this’. A year or two later I see them and they’re still doing the same job, and they could have been halfway through their apprenticeship.”
Case Study: Toni Rhind
When Toni started working for Ray Smith Engineering, she made sure her boss knew she wanted to eventually get qualified. “An apprenticeship was something I brought up with my employer, because I thought it would be beneficial to work towards getting qualified. He said, ‘We’ll see how you go and if you’re good enough, we’ll look at an apprenticeship when you finish your course’.” Toni is due to finish her mechanical engineering course in June next year, and in the meantime is working hard to earn her apprenticeship.
TRY TO AVOID: A job that just pays the bills

This is where you’re employed by a company, but there’s no plan to get you into an apprenticeship – such as being hired as a labourer or hammerhand.

While you might take one of these jobs temporarily, remember you need to work towards getting qualified if you want a career in your trade rather than just a job.

It can be tempting to get a job as a labourer or hammerhand when you’ve got bills to pay. With the current demand for workers, it’s relatively easy to find a job, and you might even get a good hourly rate.

But even though the pay seems good now, you’re unlikely to get much of a pay rise without getting qualified – and that means getting an apprenticeship.

You know your job won’t lead to an apprenticeship if:

  • There’s no plan for you to have a conversation about an apprenticeship with your boss, such as after a trial period.
  • You’ve talked to your employer and they said they can’t offer you an apprenticeship.

Advantages:

  • You get paid for the work you do.
  • You can put the job on your CV to help show your work readiness and practical skills.

Keep in mind:

  • Even though you might get a higher hourly rate as a labourer than you would in an apprenticeship, getting qualified will mean you can earn much more in the future.
  • To build a lasting and rewarding career in the trades you need to get qualified, which means getting an apprenticeship.
  • Right now, the construction boom makes it easier for less skilled workers to get a job and a good hourly rate. But if the demand for labour drops, those who aren’t qualified yet will find it much harder to get well-paid work.
Case Study: Jaxon Kuvarji
Jaxon worked in the automotive industry for 10 years before he decided to get qualified, and wishes he’d made the move sooner. “Don’t leave it too late like I did. I’ve got friends who are at the same stage as me now in their career, but they’re six or seven years younger than me. If I’d done my qualification when I was their age, I’d be so much more set, says Jaxon, who has now completed his apprenticeship.

GET ADVICE IF YOU ARE: Working as a contractor

If you’re just starting out, you should get advice before taking on this option. As a contractor, you’re actually self-employed. So, even though you’re getting paid to work for a company and might even be able to get an apprenticeship (where you have a contract with both the company you work for and an apprenticeship provider), you’ll need to pay your own taxes and cover your own costs.

Running your own business is a whole other skill set, so while you’re getting qualified in your trade, having an employment contract is better than being a contractor. That way, you can focus on building your trades skills while your employer takes care of the business side of things.

As a contractor, you also won’t necessarily get the sick pay and annual leave that employees are entitled to.

Having said that, many apprentices do start out as contractors. If you’re offered an apprenticeship as a contractor, you’ll still be working towards your qualification – but you should get advice on how to manage your work and pay your taxes. As a start, talk to your MPTT navigator – they’ll be able to help you find the information you need and answer your questions.

Legally, a contractor can usually decide when they work and how they complete a job. So, if you’re a contractor but the company you work for decides the hours you work and supervises you, and you’re doing ongoing work for them (rather than a one-off project), talk to your MPTT navigator. They can give you advice on what you’re entitled to, and help you form a plan to speak with your boss about upgrading to an employment contract.

You know you’re working as a contractor if:

  • The company isn’t paying tax for you. Check your pay slip – if the company is paying tax on your behalf (called PAYE or withholding tax), that information should be on your pay slip.
  • If you’re sick or need a day off, you don’t get paid.
  • There’s no guarantee that you’ll be doing ongoing work for the company.

Find out more about the differences between an employee and a contractor.

Advantages:

  • Once you have your qualification, you might be able to charge a higher rate as a contractor and earn more than as an employee.

Keep in mind:

  • Being self-employed is a big learning curve, so it’s best to get advice when you’re starting out – such as talking to your MPTT navigator.
  • Being a contractor is a lot of responsibility. For example, you’ll need to work out how much tax to pay the government and make sure you pay it on time, or hire an accountant to do this for you.
  • Because you’re not employed by the company, you might not get sick leave or holiday pay.

Need advice about a job contract? Get in touch with your MPTT navigator.

How to nail your job interview
in the trades

Nail your job interview in the trades
Interviews are one of the more nerve-wracking parts of getting a job.
When you’re meeting an employer face to face, you might feel like you have to know everything about your trade, or worry they’ll ask you tricky questions.

But remember, interviews are often more like a chat with the employer. If they’ve read your CV and asked to interview you, they’re already pretty sure you have the skills to do the job. So mostly, your employer wants to have a chat to get to know you and see how you’ll fit in at the company.

Having said that, there’s a lot you can do to help your interview go well. This guide will show you how to prepare for a job interview and make a good impression on your future boss.

1. Find out about the company

Do your research on the company before you arrive at the interview, says Megan Fowlie from Skills.

“Knowing something about the company shows the interviewer you have done some homework and you’re genuinely interested in who they are and what they do.”

She suggests taking these steps to get yourself up to speed:
  • Ask your friends and whānau if they know anyone who works for the company.
    “If so, ask them what they like about it and what they find challenging,” says Megan.
  • Check out the company website. “What does it say about its values, the people who work for it, the type of work it does, how big it is and where it operates? Who is the boss? What photos are on the website and what do they show?”
  • Do a Google search on the company. “Check out the history of the company and find out what other people say about it,” says Megan.
  • Do a Google search on your interviewer. Knowing a bit about them and seeing what they look like can help put you at ease – and might give you a few things to ask them about at the interview.
2. Be ready to ask questions
Tony Laulu from Skills
Tony Laulu from Skills

Asking an interviewer questions doesn’t come naturally to some Māori and Pasifika, says Tony Laulu from Skills. “In some Māori or Pasifika settings, being too outspoken and asking too many questions can be seen as being fie poko/fia poto – a know-it-all who is disrespectful, especially to someone in authority such as an employer.”

But Tony says asking questions is an important part of the interview process and comes across as mature and enthusiastic.

“Asking critical questions in an interview shows you’ve got initiative, you’re well prepared and you’re motivated to get the job.”

So it’s important to have a think about what questions you want to ask, says Megan.

“Asking questions shows the employer you have thought about how you will fit into the company.”

Plus, it can help you feel more comfortable and takes the focus off you for a while.

But what should you ask about? Here are some good questions to keep in mind.
  • Ask about where and when work happens, says Megan. “Sometimes workplaces might send you to worksites in different locations, so ask where you would most likely be working, and whether the company arranges travel to worksites. You can also ask about usual start times and finish times, and whether you would be working on a wide variety of jobs.”
  • Ask about the team – who you’ll be working with and who you’ll report to.
  • If you’re looking to be hired as an apprentice, you can ask the employer how they manage workplace training. You can also ask how many other apprentices are working for them.
  • Ask about the interviewer’s professional background and how they got started with the company. This helps show you’re interested in others, and makes your interview more of a relaxed, two-way conversation.
3. Be prepared to answer questions about yourself.

Answering questions about yourself lets future employers know more about your experience and how you communicate with other people. It also helps them find out how you will fit into the company.

“Even if you have sent through a CV, the interviewer might ask you about what experiences you have had or what you have achieved,” says Megan.

Before the interview think about how you might answer the employer’s questions. For each answer, think of examples where you’ve shown qualities the employer is looking for. Even if you haven’t had a formal job before, there are other ways to show skills that are relevant. For example, turning up to your polytech classes on time shows you’re punctual; being part of a sports team shows you can work well with others; pitching in with family commitments shows you’re responsible.


Common interview questions that you should be prepared to answer include:

Why do you want the job?

Talk about why you’re a good fit for the role, and give examples. Make sure you talk about why you want to work for this specific company, to avoid seeming like you just want any job that comes along.

What are your strengths?

Choose the things you’re good at that are most relevant to the job. Make sure you give examples of where you’ve shown these strengths.

What is your biggest weakness?

This is one of the hardest questions to answer. The key is to answer honestly, but say how you’re working to improve in that area.

Why should we hire you?

This question is a chance to talk about any strengths you haven’t mentioned yet, and to show you’re enthusiastic about this job.

Where do you see yourself in the future?

Employers ask this question to get an idea of your career goals and your passion for the job. Now is not the time to mention you might want to be an actor or accountant one day – talk about how the job you’re applying for will help you work towards a long-term career in your trade.

Why did you leave your last job?

If you’ve been employed before, think about how you’ll answer this question. Avoid criticising your previous boss or company. Instead, talk about the positive reasons you wanted to make a change.

It’s important to practice saying your answers out loud.

Practice answering questions about yourself with a family member or friend, or in front of a mirror, says Megan. “This helps you get used to talking about yourself and being proud of what you have achieved so far and what you want to do in the future.”

4. Show up early

Turn up to the place where the interview is being held 15 minutes before you’re due to arrive, says Megan.

“This will show the future employer that you’re punctual. It will also give you some time to become familiar with where you are and reflect on what you want to say during your interview.”

Remember, your interview starts the moment you arrive, so be polite to everyone rather than just the person who interviews you.

“Always greet the receptionist,” says Megan. “Let them know you have arrived for the interview and the name of the person you have come to see.”

Some Māori and Pasifika trainees might prefer to bring a member of their whānau along to their job interview. Some employers may be open to this, but because it’s not standard practice, talk to your navigator about whether it could be an option. They might know the employer, and can give you advice on how to proceed.

5. Think about your appearance

Remember, your interviewer’s first impression of you doesn’t start when you begin talking; it starts when they first see you. These tips will help you look the part.

  • Dressing in smart, tidy clothes for the interview helps show you’re professional and that you take the opportunity seriously, says Megan. “Even though you might be applying for a job on a worksite you need to wear clean, smart clothes to meet the person who will be interviewing you. Also check you have clean shoes and tidy hair.”
  • When you’re waiting for the interviewer, don’t sit in the corner, pull out your phone and hunch over it as you check Facebook. Instead, keep your phone out of sight (and on silent) and look around the waiting area or talk to the receptionist. That way, when the interviewer first sees you you’ll have a more confident-looking, upright posture.
  • Greet your employer with a firm handshake, and shake their hand again when you say goodbye.
  • Don’t be afraid to look the employer directly in the eye, says Tony. “In some Māori and Pasifika settings, it can be considered rude or disrespectful when you look someone directly in the eye, and looking down or away shows you are lowering yourself and showing humility. But in other cultures, looking people in the eye means that you are ‘true to your word’ and looking away or down means you have something to hide or that you’re showing weakness.”
  • Try to keep your hands where the interviewer can see them, rather than in your pockets or under the table. This helps show you’re trustworthy and looks more confident than if you hide your hands.

Find out more about preparing for an interview on the Careers NZ website.

Don’t have any interviews lined up yet? Why not check out our blog about how to write a great cv and cover letter to help you get your foot in the door.

NZMA – Constructing a better future with a nod to the past

NZMA students

NZMA Media Release – 2 October 2017

Approximately 20 NZMA Construction students were warmly welcomed onto the Marae at Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, with a traditional pōwhiri to signal the beginning of a vocational and spiritual journey. Fifteen of the participating students are recipients of the Māori and Pasifika Trades Training: Auckland (MPTT Auckland) scholarships offered by NZMA, who has recently become a member of the MPTT Auckland consortia*.

The students will be working at the marae one day a week, to put into practice the skills they are learning during their Certificate in Building Level 4 programme at NZMA. Students started the 20 week programme on 28 August, which sets them up to enter the construction industry as an apprentice or entry-level employee.

Wyllis Maihi, Chairperson of Komiti Marae Ōrākei Trust says that the building projects that students will be embarking on at the Ōrākei Marae site will provide them with valuable hands-on practical experience, where they will have the opportunity to transform an old villa into a fully functioning multiple learning space, as well as perform reinforcement work on the Wharenui.

NZMA Senior Tutor, Aaron Reid will supervise and keep a watchful eye on the young men and women, alongside Ōrākei marae tradespeople, who will act as mentors to the young tradies for the duration of the joint venture.

It was the first time on a marae for NZMA student Nita Tuiaki, 24. He said, “This is really special, it’s cool and a good experience. I’m looking forward to understanding the Māori culture, and this will be a highlight of my course.”

NZMA staff and students were warmly embraced by the Ngāti Whātua whanau at the marae. Matt Maihi, Ōrākei Marae Manager, explained the significance of the 700 year old site, and how the city grew around it.  He also reinforced the respect for the land, water and air, and reminded students to be respectful when handling the materials they would be using.

NZMA Regional Manager, Monique Le Marque said, “We are thrilled to be working with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei iwi. Gaining the hands-on experience in building, which the project offers, is integral to our students educational experience.  However, equally important is the spiritual understanding of their connection to the past whether Māori, Pasifika or any other ethnicity! The historical and cultural knowledge which Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei will impart to students will serve to enrich their knowledge, and will be a significant factor in these students becoming highly contributing citizens of New Zealand’s future workforce.”

NZMA will be monitoring the progress of the villa, and our next update will be when students are on the Ōrākai marae site, beginning the transformation.

NZMA

We teach real skills for today’s professions. Across seven campuses nationwide we deliver employment-focused vocational training to 3500 students each year in the fields of hospitality, cookery, business, retail, contact centre, trades, sports, early childhood education and health.

For more information www.nzma.ac.nz or 0800 222 116

For further information please contact:

Evonne Geluk, Communications Advisor
Email: evonne.geluk@acgedu.com
Mobile: 021 538 984

How to write your CV and cover letter

Make your CV work
Your employer’s first impression of you isn’t usually face-to-face – they’ll read your job application first. So if your CV isn’t up to scratch, you’re much less likely to score an interview.

But how do you write a CV, what is a cover letter, and what if you don’t have any work experience in your trade yet? This guide will help you nail that first impression, and show you where to get help if you need it.

Why write a CV?

Your CV, also called a resume, is your first step towards a new job, says Kevin Everett from Building Recruitment.

Kevin Everett
Kevin Everett

“This is the most important part of the whole process because it’s your chance to make a great first impression. Employers and recruiters will use these documents to determine whether or not they’ll take you further in the process or not.”

 

Reasons your CV is important:
  • It gives the employer an idea of what you’ve done so far.
  • It shows you have the initiative to write your CV and apply for the job.
  • A tidy, well-written CV shows respect for the employer and yourself.
Match your CV to the job

Don’t just write one CV and send it to all potential employers. You should tailor your CV to fit the particular job you’re applying for, says Kevin.

“If you’re applying for a position where the most important part of the role is erecting frame and truss, you should focus on highlighting your previous frame and truss experience.

“You want the employer to see your CV and think you’d be a perfect fit for the role.”

To get it right, Kevin says it’s important to read the job ad so you can focus on the skills and traits they’re looking for. You can also do research like visiting the company’s website, so you understand more about where you’ll be working.

“Find out as much information about the position and the company as you can.”

While you want to give your potential boss all the relevant information, you don’t need to include everything you’ve ever done – like the certificate for ‘best team player’ that you got in primary school.

“The idea behind a resume is not simply to record your entire life story, but to market the experience and skills you have in a way that matches you with the position you are applying for,” says Kevin.

How to write your CV
Make sure you include this information in your CV, says Kevin.
    1. Your name and contact details. Include your phone number and a work-appropriate email address (not terminator99@mail.com) – and in case you miss the employer’s call, make sure your voicemail message is professional and includes your name.

 

    1. Personal statement. This is a short paragraph to introduce yourself, your qualities and ethics and what you would bring to the company if hired. E.g. ‘An enthusiastic, hard-working construction trainee experienced in roofing, timber work and erecting frames and trusses.’

 

  1. A snapshot of your work history including the company and your job title. Always put the dates you worked in each role and include the months, not just years; writing ‘2015-2016’ could mean you worked there for a year, or you could have just been there for a few months. For each place you’ve worked, include detail about your job responsibilities and achievements.
    DON’T
    Hammerhand
    Responsibilities:
    • Helped build residential houses
    • General labouring
    • Required to meet H&S requirements

     

    DO
    ABC Contracting, Jan 2016 – Dec 2017
    Position: Hammerhand
    Responsibilities:
    • Erecting frames and trusses
    • Attending toolbox meetings
    • Measuring and cutting materials
    • Wrapping building
    • Ensuring site is clear and safe at all times
    • Setting up laser level
    • Using nail guns, compound saws, power drills and skill saws
    • Ensuring all framing bottom plates were connected to floor slab as per NZS3604
    • Reading of plans
    • Using laser levels
    Achievements:
    • Regular positive feedback from my employer regarding my work standard and ethics
    • Always turned up on time and never had to fix errors
    • Learned new skills such as NZS3604, using power tools and laser level
    • In nearly two years I have never had an injury

     

  2. What tools you own and what tools you have experience using.
  3. A list of your licences, training, education and qualifications (e.g. full drivers licence, Site Safe).
  4. Rather than listing referees on your CV, write ‘References available on request’, says Kevin. “Don’t include your referee’s details.” Then, when your future boss gets in touch to ask for your references, you can give your referees a heads-up before the employer calls them to make sure they’re not caught off-guard.
  5. Include your personal interests, and relate them to the job. For example, playing rugby helps show you’re a team player who is physically fit and enjoys being outdoors.
  6. What if I have no experience yet?
    If you’re applying for your first trades job, you probably won’t have a whole lot of experience to include.

    That’s okay – you can list projects you’ve worked on during your course as well as experience that shows you’d make a good employee.

    Unitec relationship manager Rangi Williams says experience isn’t just about your trades skills – it’s about demonstrating you’re ready for work.

    “Some employers might prefer to train you up their way and won’t require trades experience. But they do want you to have some experience with getting to work on time, being reliable, driving a vehicle, being drug-free, and showing you have a good attitude.”

    MIT relationship manager Naomi Tito adds that many people underestimate the value of the skills they do have.

    “Many trainees don’t realise the importance and relevance of ‘soft skills’. For example, working with youth shows leadership skills, while community engagement demonstrates the ability to contribute and be part of the wider community.”

    What if I don’t have any referees?
    If you haven’t had a job before or can’t ask your old boss to vouch for you, what can you do?

    First, try asking a tutor from your course if they’d be happy to be your referee. They’ll have seen you learn skills in your trade, as well as demonstrate soft skills like showing up to class on time.

    You can also ask people who know your character, even if they don’t know anything about your trade. This could be your rugby coach, the pastor at your church or a friend of your whānau.

    Remember, always ask people first before passing their details on to your future boss. If the employer gives your referee a call, it’s better if they’ve had a bit of time to think about the nice things they want to say about you.

    What is a cover letter and how do I write one?

    A cover letter is a letter from you to your potential employer. It tells them why you want the job and why you’d be the best person to hire. The cover letter is a chance to show your personality and your enthusiasm for the position you’re applying for.

      • Address the letter to your employer. It’s best to use their name if you can.

     

      • Say what job you’re writing to them about. The employer might be advertising several positions at the same time, so let them know which one you’re interested in. E.g. ‘I’m excited to apply for the position of steel fixer at Smith Construction.’

     

      • Tell the employer why you’re a good choice for the job. You can mention any relevant experience, skills or training, as well as your personal qualities. As a guide, look at the job ad to see what qualities and experience they’re after.

     

      • Be enthusiastic. Employers are looking for someone who really wants the job and will give it their all. Tell them why you want this particular job and why you want to work for this particular company. If it seems like you’d take any job, they’re not likely to contact you.

     

    • Sign off like you would usually finish a letter or formal email, e.g. Regards, Sam.
    Where to get help
    If you get stuck and don’t know what to write, don’t worry – there’s heaps of help out there.

    Here are some good places to start if you need to know more about writing your CV and cover letter.

    Building Recruitment
    From CV writing tips to career advice, Building Recruitment can help you find the right job.

    Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT)
    MIT can help you write your CV and apply for a job. Find their career resources online, or keep an eye out for their CV and cover letter workshops for personalised help with your job search.

    Unitec
    If you’re a Unitec student or graduate, get help writing your CV and cover letter with drop-in services or a one-on-one appointment.

    Te Wānanga o Aotearoa
    TWoA students can get practical help with their job application, including writing a CV and developing interview skills.

    MPTT Navigators
    Talk to your navigator to get advice on writing your CV and showing you’re ready for work.