What is Job Shadowing ?

Job Shadowing (JS) is a type of on-the-job training. Generally, it occurs when employees in one area of an organization (Shadow) are tasked to work (or observe work) alongside individuals in another functional area of organization (the Host). 

For example, a person in operations will asked to work alongside someone in accounting to help the operations person become more knowledgeable of the accounting process.

The objective of job shadowing is generally to allow the shadowing individual the opportunity to learn and develop within their current role.

What are the Types of Job Shadowing?

Job shadowing generally takes place in one (or a mix of) the following manners:

Observation: As the name implies, the shadowing individual (Shadow) observes the day-to-day work of the another person (Host) in their primary tasks or responsibilities. This seeks to provide general familiarity with role and functions. 

Explanation-Briefing: This is where the Host breaks down their daily tasks and responsibilities and explains or teaches it to the Shadow. This is made to create in-depth familiarity with the specific tasks and functions of the role.  

Participation (Hands-On Work): This is where the Shadow takes part in the job tasks of the Host. This may begin by repeating the work completed by the Host and graduate to the Shadow’s autonomous completion of the Host’s work – under the oversight of the Host. The objective to train the Shadow to be proficient in the Host’s tasks or functions – such that the Shadow could carry out these tasks without the assistance or supervision of the Host.