How To Get A Job Without Experience

In a previous article, we share some hints on how you can acquire relevant work experience without a job as a recent graduate or a professional seeking a change in career path or industry. But that’s like one side of a coin. What about getting a job without experience? Entry-level jobs are no longer what they used to be – jobs that required no experience. They are being replaced by internships and worsened by the adoption of automation in the workplace.

According to a LinkedIn analysis of advertised jobs, 35% of entry-level jobs now require up to 3 years of work experience, rising to more than 60% for jobs in the software and IT industry. In general, getting entry-level jobs is much harder than before. To help young professionals overcome this early career challenge, this article discusses how you can get a job without prior work experience.

Getting a job without experience

Inexperience shouldn’t stop you from getting that entry-level job because, though important, experience is just one of the many criteria your potential employer would use to appraise you. To improve your chances of getting that much-desired role, find below 7 tips to surmount this career challenge.

1. Consider internships, freelancing and volunteering

Internships, freelancing and volunteering offer you work experience opportunities even without a job. So, they can effectively help you to get your first job by giving you the upper hand. In general, employers would prefer someone who had been an intern or volunteer to a complete novice. Internships and volunteering familiarise you with the practical aspects of the job, giving you first-hand knowledge. Get involved and learn as much as you can.

The readiness to work for little or no money may be what you need to launch your career. Although many internships offer guaranteed employment after successful completion, if you’re not employed right where you’re an intern, other employers will likely offer you a full-time job.

In addition, while searching for jobs, consider freelancing. Samples of work done as a freelancer can also be presented to potential employers to gain an advantage. Work samples are generally more reliable than verbal or written claims for assessing candidates.

2. Tailor your CV to your strength

Avoid the error of presenting a CV that doesn’t capture the skills the job requires. Skills may be transferable and not necessarily from the same kind of job. A strong CV highlights achievements, skills and the value you will bring to the organisation. Rather than simply stating the tasks you performed, indicate the goals of those tasks.

Where experience isn’t your strength, a carefully crafted CV will shore up the lapses. Don’t forget to share your CV with experienced professionals in your field for possible recommendations.

3. Target realistic positions

To enhance your chances, aim for jobs that require little or no experience at all. Also, embrace roles that are a level below your desired position.

Consider part-time opportunities, too. You may also accept a little below the starting salary for the role if you will get a raise between 6 months to a year upon satisfactory performance. Undoubtedly, your potential employer would want to pay less and retain you if you are an invaluable addition to the workforce.

Meanwhile, if you meet most of the requirements of the advertised job, apply. As stated earlier, employers are interested in other things other than experience.

4. Apply speculatively

Most applicants only apply for advertised positions, which are highly competitive. However, approaching companies in person to seek entry-level positions is less competitive as you tend to be assessed as an individual, not in comparison with all the applications received. In short, many employers can’t afford to go through all applications. You may also use this opportunity to express your willingness to accept a part-time offer or lower salary.

5. Build your network 

The stronger your professional and personal networks, the closer you are to your next job. Be intentional about building quality relationships. Your contacts may recommend you for openings before they are advertised or, at least, give you early notice. Also, they may help with references.  

You can build your network by belonging to alumni associations, attending events, volunteering for community service and interacting with like-minded people in your neighbourhood. Online platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter are also great places to network. These contacts can help you with industry tips and mentorships, helping you to learn quickly and avoid early-career mistakes.

6. Highlight awards and recognition

You can boost your CV and win the confidence of potential employers by highlighting previous awards and recognition from past jobs, internships, volunteering activities or while in school. They help to accentuate your reliability, competence and commitment.

7. Acquire in-demand skills

Having the crucial skills required to excel on the job can make you irresistible to potential employers, even without experience, especially if you are able to demonstrate or carefully communicate them.  

Apart from technical skills, soft skills like emotional intelligence, problem-solving, time management, decision-making, leadership, interpersonal skills, effective communication and the ability to motivate others can set you apart.

If you convincingly demonstrate your expertise to potential employers, experience may become less significant. In addition to honing your skills, attend industry workshops to stay updated.  Professional courses and membership will boost your CV. They will show your commitment and potential.

Final thoughts

While experience is important in the job market, potential employers assess candidates based on several criteria. If you don’t have the required experience, determination, transferable skills, willingness to learn, knowledge of the company and its products or services and the effectiveness of your overall strategy can get you the job. Apply the strategy outlined in this article to enhance your chances.

We also recommend that you obtain relevant certificates to demonstrate your commitment and professionalism by enrolling in short professional courses.











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