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How to Get a Job with No Experience?

Oct 10, 2019 | For Employees | 0 comments

land a job with no experienceLanding a job with no experience can be an endless cycle. You need job experience to get a job, but to get that experience, you need employers to take a risk. At 365Worx, we see job searchers with little to no experience looking for job opportunities every day. We even see the most qualified candidates have difficulty in finding employment.

To get a job with no experience, you will need to at least meet the required educational qualifications, but the experience is something you can transfer from your previous positions. If you have no job experience, here are some ways to help you land the job.

Turn Your Life into Transferable Experiences

A lack of experience doesn’t mean that you do not have the skills companies will find useful. Every job seeker should take a look through their past activities. If you lack experience in your field, chances are you have some volunteer or life experiences that are transferable that fits the job description.

For students, it doesn’t hurt to highlight your high school/college courses on your resume. Use your education to your advantage and tailor it to be job-specific. To apply for a customer service job in retail, take the time to highlight past presentations you have given or public speaking classes.

Always Apply

If you come across a job position that you think is the right fit for you, feel free to apply. It does not matter whether or not you meet the experience requirements. Many times employers will post a position hoping to lure in an entry-level candidate with years of experience and no pay expectations. By applying anyways, you might find yourself competing against a small pool of applicants.

It won’t hurt either to take a chance and email companies that aren’t hiring. You never know when a company is about to start hiring or open to adding new entry-level jobs even if they don’t advertise that they need it right away. A great email can easily earn you an unexpected interview. It is also great if you are a college student or a recent graduate.

Some companies love to hire students or people without any experience. They like to take advantage of having employees that are a fresh canvas. Before applying, take the time to tailor your resume and cover letter to match each job. There are ways to write a great resume that doesn’t list work experience

Network Like Its the End of the World

Referrals are one of the most important ways to get into a company. If you come recommended by someone already in the company, you will immediately be more trusted and seem like less of a risk to hire. Also, don’t be afraid to ask friends and classmates that already have jobs. Some companies offer referral bonuses to current employers and perks to newer employees.

An easy two-minute call or brief email can put you one step ahead of others in your job search. Networking will open doors and opportunities hidden from the public. By getting your resume in the right hands when applying will increase your chances of getting an interview.

Internships Aren’t Just For Students Anymore

Ever heard of returnships? Companies across the US are offering opportunities for those returning to work, been off work for a while, or just never entered the job force. They are structured similar to internships and are not a guaranteed solution. A returnship provides you with marketable skills, mentorship, and real-world experience in your chosen industry.

Now, if a returnship isn’t something found locally, you can create one yourself, or take a look at local community colleges. Here in Oklahoma, Oklahoma City Community College, OCCC offers a career transition program for adults looking for a career change.

Follow Up On Every Application

Keep a detailed list of every place you have sent an application. If you haven’t heard back in a week or so, give a gentle nudge. It will be worth the follow up in the long run.

Searching for a job is tough, especially if you have no experience, changing careers, or fresh out of school. Luckily, having no experience is not the end of the world. There are plenty of opportunities for people with no experience. Just remember to think, “Why should this company choose you?.” You never know with the right mind of thinking you can achieve anything. A lack of experience is a temporary roadblock.

Use these hints to help yourself be successful in your job search. Most importantly, Good Luck!

 

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