Final answer:
Shadowing experienced team members is highly effective for skills development and moderately effective for networking. It is minimally effective for direct career advancement but can contribute to professional growth over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
Shadowing more senior team members can be highly effective for skill development since it allows individuals to observe and learn from the applied practices and expertise of experienced professionals. This hands-on observational learning provides insights into problem-solving, decision-making, and technical skills that are often not available through traditional educational methods. Furthermore, such shadowing is also moderately effective for networking, as it creates opportunities to establish professional relationships and connections that may be valuable for future career opportunities.
However, the effectiveness of shadowing for career advancement can vary. Generally, it can be seen as minimally effective because while it enhances skill sets and can lead to relationships in the industry, it does not directly result in promotions or job offers. Shadowing is more a foundation-laying activity rather than a direct means of climbing the career ladder. Nonetheless, it is certainly not ineffective for professional growth; the insights and experiences gained can enhance a person's professional development and can indirectly contribute to career progression over time.