The Pond Digger Podcast: EP64: The Apprentice Mindset

EP64: The Apprentice Mindset - Craftsman Series

Mar 26, 2021

It’s time for the next episode in our Craftsman Series, with guest Tyson. A lot of craftsmen will at one time be an apprentice or have apprentices under them. There’s a specific mindset that goes along with being an apprentice, and you must develop it so you can learn what you need to know on your journey to becoming a craftsman.

Eric and Tyson share their insight on:

How our culture puts pressure on people so everyone feels like they should be an expert right away.
Why people with experience can be reluctant to teach others because they’re coming from a scarcity mindset - they don’t want the competition.
How apprentices need to have a healthy respect for the work they are doing because any job can be dangerous or cause expensive damage.
Why apprentices need to have a mindset of a sponge, not a know-it-all.
Why “fake it ‘til you make it” is NOT a motto that applies to contracting.
The importance of awareness. How an apprentice - even when tasked with something “menial” - can observe others around them and take small steps to show that they’re ready to climb the ladder (such as seeing what kinds of tools and supplies the other workers have and then showing up with their own).
How attention to detail and proactiveness are incredibly important for contractors. Apprentices who practice them will be able to move up the ladder faster.
Apprentices need to be mentally present, not just physically present. You cannot bring baggage or outside worries to work.
Why apprentices need to realize that there will be tension at times and they need to be able to approach that without sensitivity.
Why apprentices need to truly want to be there, doing what they’re doing, even though being an apprentice isn’t their end career goal.
Why you need to use common-sense to show up to your new apprentice job with basic preparedness: like lunch, water, work boots, a tape measure, etc.
Why everyone - not just apprentices - should remain curious and keep asking questions.

Links to resources:

The Pond Digger

If you’re looking for inspiration and tips for your pond, be sure to follow The Pond Digger’s Instagram!