It’s a classic catch-22 situation; you need experience to get a job and a job to get experience.
How do you break the cycle and get your foot in the door? All it takes is a little knowledge and some strategic thinking. As technology creates new jobs and changes the way we do existing ones, we’re no longer getting roles via the methods we know. Check out our latest advice for job seekers with little or no experience.
Gain experience
While a full-time job may be a bit more difficult to get at first, there are many ways to build your CV. Look for internships, apprenticeships, consider volunteering, temporary work or even part time jobs, especially if they relate to the kind of work you’re looking for. These can also be excellent opportunities for networking and, if you do particularly well, can open the door to a full-time position.
Focus on entry level positions
If you have zero past work experience and you’re looking for your first job, focus on entry level positions at companies or in fields that interest you. Office Administration may not be your dream job, but if you’re just starting out you should be focused on getting the right foot-in-the-door and working your way up. Try to focus on entry-level jobs in areas where you’d like to eventually grow.
If you’re breaking in to a new industry you can aim a little higher, just be sure to highlight relevant skills and experience that overlap with your previous work
Do career research
Be sure to research the position and the company, think carefully about what you have to offer, ask intelligent questions, get outside help and support with your CV and cover letter and ensure that it is tailored to each job advert that you apply for. Demonstrate your transferrable skills and experience and interest in the business/sector.
Get a recommendation
Networking is your greatest asset in the quest for employment, but even more so if you lack experience. A recommendation from a trusted professional is often all you need to convince a new employer to hire you. Spent time thinking about who you know in your current network and have a coffee with them to discuss your current situation and where you’d like to be. You never know who they know and who they are going to speak to!
Consider the job requirements when applying
If you’re less experienced in the world of work it’s likely you won’t meet all the requirements listed in a job post. Instead of being put-off by what seems like a daunting list of credentials you don’t have, consider the daily tasks of the role and whether you could reasonably perform them. If yes, go for it! Consider these job requirements as the employers “wish list.” These may be negotiable unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Don’t embellish your past achievements
Resist the temptation to embellish your past achievements or invent experience you don’t have. These mis-truths have a tendency of catching up with you and can backfire which can damage your reputation. Honesty is always the answer and selling your “soft skills” that would make you a valuable addition to the team. These are your personality traits and unique strengths that describe your character.
If you’d like help and support crafting a winning CV, or in finding your first role then speak with our team of specialist recruiters! You can call us on 0114 321183 or email your CV to hello@www.glurecruit.co.uk