[Jewelry making - Article 00563] - Re: [Orchid] Bench tests

[Phillip]

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Hello Matt,

>     Should I expect to get paid for the time I do the bench test? I am
>     just wondering what is typical. 

    This has been raised before. Apparently some bench workers here got
    burned being used as free labour. I have always been paid, plus
    travelling expenses. I negotiate quite hard. 

    They will probably give you a variety of work. It might be prepared
    but they might like to see you work out of chaos (more likely they
    are lazy in the later example). They might not be all that concerned
    with what you do, but how you are doing it. Some shops can expect to
    be reliant on you as the expert whilst others want you as part of a
    team. The best job for you might depend on your personality. One
    main skill will be to intuitively know where the findings are kept
    or where the dust pan and broom is in case you drop something. The
    other people behind the bench will be asked what they think of you
    and depending on the run of the place, either listened to or
    ignored. If it sounds like it is varied it really isn't. Most
    workshops are similar and the work is fairly consistent. 

    Some things I have noticed is that they always take you for your
    word. If you say you can set they will give you something to set and
    so on. 

    Remember it goes both ways. They are on trial too. Conditions for
    workers vary a lot. Some places will suit you and others won't. 

    Do your work the way you are used to doing it. Don't take extra long
    to lift your standards above what they are and don't rush even if
    the guy on the next bench is ploughing through. Don't be arrogant,
    because that will kill you in case you can't find the dustpan and
    want to ask for help. Don't ask too many questions in case someone
    wants to use you as proof that they know everything. Work out who is
    boss and deal with them as much as you can. Treat your co-workers as
    co-workers. Try to fit in. The more you relax into the job the
    better you will know if the job is right for you. Don't worry about
    having your best day ever, you might, or you might mess up the
    simplest things. 

    My best advise is to see how they do things and learn what you can
    because if you don't get the job at least you will walk away with
    something, (and cash). 

Good luck,
Phillip
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