Job searching when you have no experience may seem a daunting taskNowadays, employers are looking for candidates with essentially the ‘whole package’. While a good education is important and a good degree will help you progress towards your future career, having the whole package, with relevant skills and experience, is what employers are really looking for. So how could you improve your employability skills to give you a better chance at securing your ideal role?
Work experience
Let’s start with the most obvious – work experience. It doesn’t necessarily have to be in the industry you ideally want to work in, but pretty close would be great. Employers will see a willingness to work hard, passion & true commitment if you have gained some work experience in a similar field. Don’t be afraid to approach potential employers, friends and family to ask if you could work a few hours a week to just gain some invaluable experience. Most will be more than willing to assist.
Review your CV
Its worth taking time to research and write your CV properly as this is the first ‘impression’ of yourself you will give to a potential employer or recruiter. According to Career Builder, 68 per cent of hiring managers and human resources pros will spend two minutes or less reviewing each CV they receive and 17 per cent will spend 30 seconds or less. Make sure your CV is eye catching and interesting – stand out from the crowd!
Volunteer
Volunteer work is a great addition to your CV and will enable you to develop your skills and work experience, while giving back to your community. Perhaps you could coach or manage a sports club, volunteer to assist at the library, in a charity shop, within a school – who knows what doors it could open?
Network on LinkedIn
Your LinkedIn profile is one of the most important career marketing tools you have. According to a recent Jobvite study, 94 per cent of employers use LinkedIn to recruit. 95 per cent also said that they actively search for candidates so make sure your profile is up to date with your education, skills and any experience you have. Remember to use a clear, professional profile picture. Expand your network by connecting with friends, old colleagues, tutors and look for people who you’d like to talk to about potential jobs. Follow company pages too as they often are updated with job vacancies. Post relevant updates and share interesting articles relating to the industry you’d like to work in. Be at the forefront of people’s minds so when they’re next hiring, you’ll be at the top of their lists.
Keep a positive attitude
‘Think positive and positive things will happen’. Having a positive ‘can do’ approach is always the best way to impress a recruiter. Even if you don’t have experience with something, be honest and show a willingness to learn every aspect of the job.
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