How to get a job with a quality electrical contractor as a journeyman electrician, electrical trainee or electrician apprentice in Southern California
The first thing you need to do is contact Labor Resource Solutions and take advantage of the services we have to offer, including exposure to many Southern California Electrical Contractors looking to fill jobs with qualified dependable electricians, trainees and apprentices. Labor Resource Solutions doesn’t cost you anything and saves your time and gas not having to drive throughout Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties filling out applications and taking tests. Check out our web site to see all the advantages Labor Resource Solutions can offer the electrician.
Let’s get started with some tips on getting a job and finding long term employment.
First, be on time! It sounds obvious, but it needs to be said. Electrical Contractors are very busy and need to evaluate prospective electricians quickly. One of the simplest indicators is punctuality. No matter whether you are applying for employment as a foreman, journeyman trainee or apprentice, be on time! Being late can result in immediate elimination for consideration.
Second, don’t be a “no show” and don’t reschedule unless absolutely necessary. As a contractor I cannot tell you how many cars seem to break down the first day of work! Electrical contractors have all heard that excuse too many times. Being a “no show” almost guarantees your employment will be short lived. Be sure when you make a commitment there are no reasons that will make you a “no show”. But if an emergency truly does happen, call the electrical contractor as soon as you know. Call early, leave messages, and remember to call Labor Resource Solutions so we can document your call.
Labor Resource Solutions rates your employment performance; this includes the initial hiring process. “No shows” are a sure way to lower your dispatch rating for future jobs.
Third, dress appropriately and be prepared. While showing a lot of initiative, dressing in a business suit is not necessary for an electrical construction interview, but dressing “work ready” is. Clean pants, work boots and a collared shirt is what most Southern California Electrical Contractors expect to see when filling a job. T shirts and shirts with derogatory remarks should be avoided. Hats, shorts and flip-flops are not going to give the first impression an electrician wants to give when answering a help wanted ad. In addition bring what you need: a pen, social security card, drivers license, certifications, as well as resume information and job history information. Have the address and contact person information as well. Remember the electrical contractor is looking for clues as to what type of electrician the applicant will be. Not having these items conveys that you do not know how to plan in advance. Labor Resource Solutions can help you by providing the information you need.
Fourth, communicate effectively. Don’t dominate the conversation; don’t badmouth previous contractors or employers. Answer questions honestly and don’t be too general. If asked what kind of electrical work have you preformed? Do not answer “I’ve done it all!” A more appropriate answer might be “I have five years of tenant improvement, and two years of industrial electrical maintenance work”.
Ask about some of the specifics of the job and the company. You will want to confirm things like how far you will be driving and what type of work the job will entail. In this way, you will have the information you need to agree on a wage, and not have to renegotiate because you did not understand the requirements. It is ok to ask the electrical contractor when he will be making a decision.
Fifth, thank the contractor at the end of the interview. Sending an email thanking the electrical contractor for the opportunity is recommended, but not required. Keep Labor Resource Solutions informed, so that we can help position you as well.
Sixth, be sure when you make a commitment. Backing out of a job that meets all the parameters you agreed to before being dispatched will affect your dispatch rating as well as burning a bridge with a contractor. It is your right to determine how far you are willing to drive and what type of work you will be required to perform for a certain wage, but do this before you commit to a job.
Lastly, be wary of electrical contractors promising you higher wages to hire you away or keep you from leaving. If a contractor is desperate to finish a project he may overpay electricians and promise long term employment just until completion, and then lay off the electricians two weeks later when the job is finished. Also, consider your future with an electrical contractor who only gives you a raise once you give notice. Look for contractors who are willing to grant reviews and raises without the electrician having to threaten to leave.
Be positive and good luck. Don’t forget Labor Resource Solutions is here to help. Our goal is to help you build a successful career as an electrician in Southern California.