Starting a new career is nerve-wracking, whether you’re finding purpose after University or changing careers at a later age - and those nerves get worse when you don’t have experience.
If you haven't worked during your time at university or are looking to move into a career field, you may be finding yourself in the classic catch-22 situation where you need experience to get a job, and a job to get experience. You probably have more experience than you think. Most soft skills are transferable, and if you love learning new things, you’ll adjust to a new position quickly.
Below are tips to help you boost your application and get your foot in the door interviewing for roles you don’t have demonstratable experience in.
RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS & APPRENTICESHIPS
If you're struggling to secure a long-term or permanent position, internships and apprenticeships are great ways to gain that much-needed experience. They make it possible to earn a wage while acquiring first-hand knowledge of a job or organisation, are useful for building a network of contacts and can sometimes lead to permanent employment.
An internship looks impressive on your CV and can make you stand out from the crowd. Some larger companies may run formal internship programmes, so check the websites of organisations you're interested in regularly to see what is available, smaller businesses do not always advertise apprenticeships so you may have to contact targeted companies directly
On an apprenticeship, you'll be employed to do a real job while studying for a formal qualification. You'll sign a contract with your employer, and then receive training in a specific profession.
Apprenticeships vary in length and can last for up to four years with the majority of apprentices being guaranteed employment upon completion.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteering positions are a sure-fire way to boost your employability, especially if you have no relevant experience. Although unpaid, you'll profit from the skills and contacts you gain.
Volunteering experience shows commitment, initiative and a strong work ethic, which are all valuable, appealing traits to prospective employers.
You’ll also develop a range of sought-after, transferable skills, such as:
· Teamwork
· Confidence
· Time management
· Adaptability
· Communication
· Organisation
· Work ethic
BUILD YOUR NETWORK
When you're starting out with no experience, who you know can be just as important as what you know. A recommendation to an employer from a personal contact can go a long way. But how do you build up a network of contacts if you're struggling to enter the world of work?
If you're at university, utilise the contacts available to you before you graduate.
Make the most of open days, careers fairs, recruitment networking events and employer talks or lectures. Visit your university careers service to see if they can put you in touch with employers in your area of interest.
Keep in touch with lecturers, the people you meet on work experience placements or internships and fellow volunteers - you never know when these contacts might come in useful.
Social media is also an effective way of building and maintaining your professional network. Being on sites such as LinkedIn, and following and connecting with companies and individuals in your chosen field, can yield impressive results.
BE HONEST & EMPHASISE EXISTING SKILLS
Being honest about your experience is vital but being apologetic about your lack of experience may hinder your chances of finding a job.
When you're writing your CV, focus on the skills you do have, rather than the ones you don't. Analyse the job description and list all the skills and personal qualities that make you a good fit for the job.
Emphasise transferable skills such as communication, energy, drive, ambition. leadership ability, team working and attention to detail.
Also, don't forget your participation to any clubs or sports teams etc you've been part of while at University, This is because you'll have developed skills in areas such as team working and leadership
TARGET REALISTIC ROLES & TAILOR YOUR APPLICATION
There's nothing wrong with aiming high, but if you've no previous experience, starting your job search by applying for senior roles is pointless. Be realistic and instead target entry-level or junior jobs and be prepared to start at the bottom and work your way up.
Do your research and apply to companies that interest you. Tailor each application and ask if there are any entry-level positions available, as you're looking to break into the industry.
Tailoring your CV for every job you apply for may feel like a time-consuming task; but trust us, it’s worth it.
The person looking at your CV wants to know that you’re a plausible fit for the role, and that you’re passionate about fulfilling it. Not only will tailoring your CV enhance your suitability, it’ll also demonstrate your interest in the role and company. This means you’re more likely to get shortlisted, and ultimately secure the job you want. Let’s face it, it’s much better than blending in.
Parts of your CV you want to consider tailoring:
· Personal statement
· Work history
· Skills
· Work-related qualifications and training