Skip to main content
13 answers
15
Asked 722 views

How do you get a job when you have no experience?

What would be a great way to build career experience with no experience? Its been hard to get a job since I haven't had one before, and I need to start saving money for the future plans I have and college. I have a resume prepared already.

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

15

13 answers


2
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Angel’s Answer

I understand that getting a job in the current market can be extremely challenging when you have no experience. Unfortunately, even obtaining an entry-level position is difficult due to the fact that hiring managers often require some form of experience. Always highlight the skills on your resume that can be transferred to the jobs you are applying for. If you have worked on any school or personal projects, consider adding them to your resume. Volunteering for a few hours each week is an easy way to gain some experience as well. Seasonal work can serve as a stepping stone towards securing a full-time job. Networking with professionals in the industry you are applying to can also help you find a job. Finding a job can take time, but keep applying!
2
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Jams !

So, you've never had a job before and you are wondering how to get a job without work experience. We all have had our first step into a job, many of us with no experience. There is a difference between actual employers telling you that they can't hire you because you have no experience and you assuming that no one will hire you. You will get a first job, you'll see.

Apply for lots of jobs every day to cover a lot of ground and increase your chances of getting an interview. As another advisor suggested, go on Linked In and also make an account at Indeed and spend a lot of time creating your profile and applying for jobs. The types of jobs that may hire you at entry level are food service, retail, security (but you'd have to be Certified in your state), Photography, on line remote work, Consumer product testing, Child Care, basic Data Entry, or Customer Service. Many employers like to hire a person and train them for the particular job, so most likely, you will be trained in their unique way once you get a job. Also, do volunteer work in the meantime and get some experience. Think of some jobs you'd enjoy doing and focus on all the steps it takes to get a job. Most of all, realize that it takes time sometimes to get a job. Go to Job Fairs which will give you the opportunity to speak to people and discuss if "experience" is necessary for their jobs. It may put you at ease to speak one to one with these people.

I hope this will help you along you job search and I wish you all the best !
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jing’s Answer

If you're currently in school, take the opportunity to pick a major that you're passionate about and deepen your understanding of its associated industries through your coursework. Make the most of your winter and summer breaks by seeking out part-time jobs in your chosen field. You can find these opportunities on job recruitment websites. These roles not only offer valuable experience but also provide a glimpse into the real-world workings of the industry.

Moreover, if you find yourself drawn to this industry, consider using your free time to further your knowledge. You can find a wealth of relevant courses and educational materials online that can aid in your self-improvement.
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Carol’s Answer

Hey Jams,

Starting from scratch can seem daunting, but remember, you're already making progress!

The key to landing a job is understanding what employers are seeking. So, start by envisioning your future career. What industry sparks your interest? What role do you see yourself in a decade from now? Don't worry if you're unsure - this is the perfect time to explore and learn. Consider internships or entry-level positions as stepping stones.

Remember, employers value potential and growth, not just experience. As others have suggested, seek help with your resume, perhaps from your school's career center. Even without relevant work experience, you can still showcase your potential for the roles you're interested in.

Networking is another essential step in your career journey. Connect with individuals already in roles you're interested in and don't hesitate to ask them for advice or insights.

I hope this guidance proves beneficial.

Wishing you the best on your journey!
1
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Alan’s Answer

Jams, you're right, it's not easy. I would work with someone to create a resume, stressing your skills, educational achievements, volunteer work, personal qualities... anything that will make you look like a desirable candidate and distract from the absence of experience. Of course, once you gain some experience, you'll redo the resume emphasizing it.

Also, your school's guidance counselor(s) might have suggestions or programs to help. Check with your local stores, and try to network through acquaintances and friends of acquaintances. I hope that's a start.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jerome’s Answer

A fair number of jobs are given to referrals. I would recommend talking to family members and seeing if they know anyone who could be in a position to hire you. You can also start connecting with people on LinkedIn and asking if they are aware of any roles.

If you are in a position where you are just submitting applications online, it will definitely be tough to lock something down.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Shruti’s Answer

Volunteering and gaining technical skills for wanted job is always good backup if you lack experience.
Also, non-paid internship can be useful.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Pia’s Answer

Depending on which area you are looking to work in, a few options may be -
1] a project that you assign to yourself and work on by yourself to showcase your skills to prospective employers
2] reach out to your network and offer your services for free. Knowledge is power! So you may not get paid initially but you will be building your skill-set which will pay off at a later point
3] volunteer work or freelance work in your area of interest
4] getting certified (by taking certification courses/certification exams) also helps you show employers that you are a serious candidate
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Daiene’s Answer

From my own experience I can say that the best way is through volunteering, I did it right when I started in the area I currently work in, I also did fictitious projects that I had in mind, this is a way to demonstrate to your future employer that you are proactive, quality very important in the job market, that is, if you don't get it through volunteering, start creating projects that you have in mind, even if they are for yourself and publicize these projects on linkedin, there you will have many opportunities to get a job, any doubt or question is just call and good luck.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Billy’s Answer

If you're struggling financially with tuition, remember that scholarships and low-interest loans are always available. So, don't let money troubles hinder your pursuit of a college education.

Now, let's talk about how to land a job without any experience. Before you start a paid job, consider working at several unpaid positions to develop your skills and gain experience. Offering your services as a volunteer or an assistant can help you acquire the necessary experience and open up opportunities.

If you possess knowledge but lack work experience, applying for internships can be a viable option.

The good news is that for the opportunities mentioned above, people don't usually expect you to have a lot of experience. This makes it easier than trying to secure a job for which you have no prior experience.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Murph,’s Answer

That is actually a great question. Well, if you don't have any experience volunteering in the field or if you have never had an internship in the field, then you must be mighty convincing. We all have to start from somewhere and zero experience is where many start. The gift of gab helps, but not in every case. So that brings me back to my original point. Even if you have the gift of gab, with no work experience, no many places will take a chance. So if you find yourself getting no after no, offer to volunteer or do a free internship under someone that can mentor you and give you the experience you need. This free/unpaid experience can go on your resume and it gives you valid work experience.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Shamsudeen’s Answer

Participate in a volunteering organization to acquire knowledge and experience. Learn digital skills through an entrepreneurship program in your community. This could lead to your success one day. Remember, never give up.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Amalya’s Answer

You can take part in various internships or work experience programs (both online and in-person.) Some companies also offer an opportunity to get into practicums and related programs. Freelancing is another option to gain work experience.
0