Breaking into an industry or switching to a new field requires you to earn an entry-level job where you can improve your qualifications. Learn what you can do when an employer requires relevant experience and you have none.
Start volunteering
Hiring managers consider volunteer work experience a valuable asset when considering candidates as it shows the initiative skill development. Most people think of volunteering in terms of providing services to individuals, such as tutoring a child or visiting an elderly person. But that’s just part of the picture. If you want experience in accounting, see if any local nonprofit agencies would let you volunteer with their accounting staff. Want to learn marketing? Offer to create a Twitter feed, write brochures or call prospective donors.
Apply for internships, paid or unpaid
Internships aren’t just for students. In this day and age, they are considered the new entry-level job. Find something you’re genuinely interested in and ensure that the opportunity will allow you to develop the skills you need to get the job you want.
Don’t discount your university experiences
Make a list of all the activities you were involved with over the course of your college career. Consider all of the tasks that you performed and translate them into real work experience.
Use social media
Use social media and LinkedIn groups to spread the word that you’re looking for a job. Build a profile and connect with people you admire with a personal but professional connection request that indicates that you’ve done your research and would like to connect with them. The combination of research and initiative is a great way into a job.
Ask your professors for help
If you did research for a professor in college or had a particularly good relationship with one, ask if you can list him or her as a reference.
Take on a leadership role
If you belong to any groups or organizations, take on a leadership role by offering to organize an event or spearhead a project.
Struggling to find a job? Learn how Unius Learning can help you.