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Any Tips on starting Internships and Jobs when you haven’t had much experience with Jobs in your field?
I’ve been a bit nervous to start applying to Internships because I’ve been only focused school and not working these past couple years. Any tips on starting Internships and Jobs when you haven’t had much experience with Jobs in your field? I’m majoring in Communications and minoring in HR.
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Ali’s Answer
Starting internships or jobs in a new field with little experience can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that everyone begins somewhere. The key is to focus on the skills you already have—whether from school projects, volunteering, or personal interests—and highlight how they apply to the role. For example, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication are valuable in almost any job. If you lack direct experience, consider freelancing, taking online courses, or working on small projects to build your portfolio. Networking can also open doors, so reach out to professionals for advice, attend industry events, and use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with people in your field. When applying, tailor your resume and cover letter to each job, emphasizing your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. In interviews, be honest about your experience but confident in your potential, and show that you’re eager to grow. Starting small, like with internships or entry-level roles, can provide the hands-on experience you need to progress. Most importantly, stay curious, ask questions, and embrace the learning process—employers often value attitude and adaptability just as much as experience. With persistence and the right mindset, you’ll gradually gain the skills and confidence to succeed.
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Jaiden’s Answer
I wouldn't worry too much about this! An internship is a time for learning, so companies aren't expecting you to be highly experienced when starting out. I would taut your experience through your classes, extracurriculars, etc. when applying to internships. Then once you secure one as long you are eager and willing to learn, are organized, communicative, and an active participant then that's all a brand can ask for.
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Maura’s Answer
Hi Ashley!
The first think I would say is that internships are all about getting experience. Don't feel like you have to be an expert or have it all figured out before you apply for a position. The second thing I'd highlight is that even though you've been focused on school, that doesn't mean you haven't gotten valuable experience that could translate to an internship or job. Take some time to reflect on your classes or extracurriculars and how that could apply to the types of internships or jobs you're interested in. Most of all, as you get started in any field what hiring leaders often look for is someone who is passionate, hard working, and willing to learn. Have a positive attitude, ask a lot of questions, and you can't go wrong!
The first think I would say is that internships are all about getting experience. Don't feel like you have to be an expert or have it all figured out before you apply for a position. The second thing I'd highlight is that even though you've been focused on school, that doesn't mean you haven't gotten valuable experience that could translate to an internship or job. Take some time to reflect on your classes or extracurriculars and how that could apply to the types of internships or jobs you're interested in. Most of all, as you get started in any field what hiring leaders often look for is someone who is passionate, hard working, and willing to learn. Have a positive attitude, ask a lot of questions, and you can't go wrong!
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Rumyana’s Answer
Hello dear Ashley,
One of the first lessons I learned from the corporate world is aptitude and attitude are most important!
Based on the hundreds of interviews I have conducted with early career professionals in a global IT company I can share that the most successful candidates weren't the ones with most experience or glorious degrees, but the ones who showcased the right attitude and willingness to learn. Having passion, showing curiosity, asking questions, doing your research on the company and the business domain is what will set you apart from other candidates. Make sure you ask questions/test the interviewers on the company culture and their career development opportunities - this will also help you distinguish who are the employers only looking to fill a role vs the ones looking to develop your talents.
On the other hand, this is the time for you to explore the business world and literally test yourself in different areas. I would personally encourage you to seek internships in different industries and various business domains as this is the best way for you to test what you enjoy and do not like. This is the moment when you can "switch" careers easily and I would strongly recommend. You will not believe it if I tell you how many experienced professional are still looking to find themselves and their true passion in life. So building up the self-awareness of what you like/ do not like is a huge success at your age! :)
If i have to summarize a few career tips, these will be:
- Make sure you stay curious and ask questions
- Be proactive, raise your hand for additional projects
- Try to gain as many skills as possible - consider an internship as an investment. When choosing the company to work for ask yourself what can I learn from them?
Good luck!
Rumyana Kaludova
One of the first lessons I learned from the corporate world is aptitude and attitude are most important!
Based on the hundreds of interviews I have conducted with early career professionals in a global IT company I can share that the most successful candidates weren't the ones with most experience or glorious degrees, but the ones who showcased the right attitude and willingness to learn. Having passion, showing curiosity, asking questions, doing your research on the company and the business domain is what will set you apart from other candidates. Make sure you ask questions/test the interviewers on the company culture and their career development opportunities - this will also help you distinguish who are the employers only looking to fill a role vs the ones looking to develop your talents.
On the other hand, this is the time for you to explore the business world and literally test yourself in different areas. I would personally encourage you to seek internships in different industries and various business domains as this is the best way for you to test what you enjoy and do not like. This is the moment when you can "switch" careers easily and I would strongly recommend. You will not believe it if I tell you how many experienced professional are still looking to find themselves and their true passion in life. So building up the self-awareness of what you like/ do not like is a huge success at your age! :)
If i have to summarize a few career tips, these will be:
- Make sure you stay curious and ask questions
- Be proactive, raise your hand for additional projects
- Try to gain as many skills as possible - consider an internship as an investment. When choosing the company to work for ask yourself what can I learn from them?
Good luck!
Rumyana Kaludova
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Siobhan’s Answer
It's completely normal to feel nervous about starting internships and jobs, especially when you haven't had much experience in your field. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Leverage Your Academic Experience:
Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and any group work that demonstrates your skills in communications and HR. Mention any presentations, research, or papers you've done that relate to your field.
2. Gain Experience Through Volunteering:
Look for volunteer opportunities that allow you to apply your communications and HR skills. This can be a great way to build experience and expand your network.
3. Network Actively:
Connect with professors, classmates, and professionals in your field. Attend industry events, join relevant clubs or organizations, and engage on LinkedIn. Don't hesitate to ask for informational interviews to learn more about the industry and potential career paths.
4. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter:
Customize your resume and cover letter for each application. Highlight your academic achievements, relevant skills, and any extracurricular activities that demonstrate your capabilities.
Use action verbs and quantify your accomplishments where possible.
5. Develop Transferable Skills:
Focus on skills that are valuable across various roles, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. Consider taking online courses or certifications to enhance your skill set.
6. Prepare for Interviews:
Practice common interview questions and develop strong answers that showcase your strengths and experiences.
Be ready to discuss how your academic background has prepared you for the role and how you can contribute to the organization.
7. Start Small:
Apply for internships or entry-level positions that may not require extensive experience. These roles can provide valuable learning opportunities and help you build your resume.
8. Stay Positive and Persistent:
Rejections are part of the process. Stay positive, keep applying, and learn from each experience.
Celebrate small victories and progress along the way.
Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and your academic background has already equipped you with valuable skills. Embrace the learning process and take each step with confidence. You've got this!
Leverage Your Academic Experience:
Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and any group work that demonstrates your skills in communications and HR. Mention any presentations, research, or papers you've done that relate to your field.
2. Gain Experience Through Volunteering:
Look for volunteer opportunities that allow you to apply your communications and HR skills. This can be a great way to build experience and expand your network.
3. Network Actively:
Connect with professors, classmates, and professionals in your field. Attend industry events, join relevant clubs or organizations, and engage on LinkedIn. Don't hesitate to ask for informational interviews to learn more about the industry and potential career paths.
4. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter:
Customize your resume and cover letter for each application. Highlight your academic achievements, relevant skills, and any extracurricular activities that demonstrate your capabilities.
Use action verbs and quantify your accomplishments where possible.
5. Develop Transferable Skills:
Focus on skills that are valuable across various roles, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. Consider taking online courses or certifications to enhance your skill set.
6. Prepare for Interviews:
Practice common interview questions and develop strong answers that showcase your strengths and experiences.
Be ready to discuss how your academic background has prepared you for the role and how you can contribute to the organization.
7. Start Small:
Apply for internships or entry-level positions that may not require extensive experience. These roles can provide valuable learning opportunities and help you build your resume.
8. Stay Positive and Persistent:
Rejections are part of the process. Stay positive, keep applying, and learn from each experience.
Celebrate small victories and progress along the way.
Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and your academic background has already equipped you with valuable skills. Embrace the learning process and take each step with confidence. You've got this!
Updated
Sean’s Answer
Be ready to put in lots of effort, keep a positive attitude, arrive early, and stay late. It will pay off in the end.