Ella spent two weeks on work experience as a Private Detective
"When applying for work experience, I was expecting to be left filing documents or shadowing someone carry out administrative tasks, however, as soon as I first entered the office I was asked to start researching on a client’s case, and was made to feel as if I had been working in the company for a while. From the first day of my two week-long work experience, I was involved in everything I could be, and even though the first few days were fairly quiet in the office, looking at birth, marriage and census records for clients was very interesting!"
On the second day of my time at Answers, I was invited to attend a talk about the difference between ‘perfection’ and ‘excellence’ in businesses, at Farnham Castle. At first it was strange to be amongst many successful business professionals, as I am only 15, but the discussion was very interesting, and I was happy to give my opinion on the topic when talking to people after the presentation. I found the talk daunting at first, but Nigel helped me feel comfortable talking about my work experience decision to others, and already had made me feel a part of the team at Answers Investigation
Another great experience I encountered over the two weeks was taking part in a surveillance task. Although I did have to get up at 5 am, it was interesting to learn about the techniques used in order to gather the required information for a client. Harry and I watched a neighbourhood for quite some time, while taking photos and trying to piece bits of information together. It was great to be a part of this ‘undercover mission’ and gave me a real understanding of what this job is like when out of the office
When in the office, I was made to feel very welcomed by Nigel, Jen and Harry, and it was great that they took my ideas and thoughts about clients and events into consideration. Talking about A level courses and University options was also enlightening and widened my understanding about how I could enter this type of work. I had never learnt about what different courses – like Criminology- were like, so this not only helped my knowledge of how to get into a job like one at Answers, but also helped me take an interest in the large variety of future options available to me
The biggest event and experience I encountered during my time at Answers Investigation was the Chichester Business Exhibition, where me and Adina, a previous work experience student who has gone on to work for the company, dressed up as Sherlock Holmes to promote the company. At first, I was pushed out of my comfort zone, as asking for promotional photos was something I hadn’t done before, but as soon as I had talked to a few people, the event became very enjoyable, and it was great to be a part of something which few would have the opportunity to do. I acquired many new skills and a new level of confidence while out discussing other people’s businesses, and seeing how different companies promoted their brand and service was also eye-opening
Throughout my time at Answers Investigation, I have obtained a large range of new skills, as well as a whole new understanding – not only about the job, but how a business runs, and what I would have to do in order to eventually take this career path. I feel I have come a long way in such a short space of time, and want to thank all the people who have made my work experience journey enlightening, enriching and inspirational. I never thought that I would be able to secure a work experience placement so exciting and interesting, due to my current age and location, however I am very thankful for all the effort put in to allow me to have an unforgettable experience, and thankful that such an exceptional Investigation team allowed me to stay for the two weeks. I am very sad this experience has come to an end, however I will be taking many skills and memories with me
Ella is someone whom we really intend to keep in touch with. her attitude is first class, she listens, and contributes, and made a valuable contribution during her two weeks with us
