The job market is quite a confusing and difficult problem. In order to get professional experience, you need a job, but you need professional experience to get the job. Job experience is an added benefit today, especially for senior positions. But when it’s your first ever job, how do you join the workforce?
Internships, apprenticeships and volunteer programs
Internships and apprenticeships are one of the easiest opportunities for someone with no technical experience to get a job. Not only can these channels provide the much needed experience, but they can also help you secure a permanent role. Another perfect way of joining the professional world without any experience is volunteering. It lets you develop characteristics that favor you in the long run, such as determination, initiative and good work-ethics.
Also Read : How to Turn Your Internship into a Full-time Job
Networking
When searching for a job at any point in your career, your private network is always beneficial. Connecting with people, keeping a healthy network, and still remaining in touch is imperative. These contacts will vouch for you anytime you need them and can be the secret to finding a job.
Focus on soft skills
Do not underestimate your soft skills when applying for a position. These include, among others, communication, leadership ability, teamwork skills, and attention to detail. Make sure you show a recruiter these talents, since these are the things that are of interest to them, often carrying much more weight than your experience at work.
Also Read : Tips on How to Improve your Soft Skills at Work
Showcase your work experience
Your experience doesn’t just have to be the time you spend at work. It may also be the amount of time you spend doing something good or beneficial. In whatever you have pursued, what you can highlight is your life experience, and how you have had a brief learning curve. It would support the case to demonstrate a history of achievement by events that you took part in or the roles you held in school or college, and even fundraising for a college function, among others.
Work for experience
Although the main aim of searching for a job is to get food on the table, your first paycheck can be small without any professional experience. Based on your experience, you should be realistic about the payoff and should concentrate on acquiring information instead. In some instances, you might even start working for free if they need for experience is strong. Not only can this help you obtain a special interest from the employer, but at 18 years old, it will also improve your employability chances.
The fact is, the work market today is hyper-competitive and sometimes it can be hard to land the job of your dreams with no experience to back you up. But, be assured that it can be achieved with dedication, earnestness, and a little bit of versatility. In your own right, you will need to persevere and prove this to yourself.
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