Starting a new career without experience can be daunting. In fact, it is commonly said that you cannot get a job without experience but then, you need a job to build an experience. For many people, this scares them away from applying for that dream job.
Whether making a career switch or just starting out of college, landing a job or starting a career is not that difficult. With determination, motivation, and a passion to excel, here are proven ways to start a new career with no experience.
Do your assignment
First, you would want to do your homework well. What career path or job are you looking at? Where do you think your passion lies or what job aligns more to your personal interest? These questions help you tailor your skills to the right job.
Everyone has a unique skill set that can be applied to a specific job. You would want to do research before eventually deciding on a career.
Talk about your skills
Entering a new career does not mean you are starting from scratch. While you do not have the work experience, you do have a set of transferable skills that would be relevant to the employer. Many people downgrade the skills they have when beginning a new career path.
When presenting your CV or your cover letter, you would want to highlight these to the employer. Certain hard skills might be very valuable to the chosen career. Start by mentioning those that are your strong points. Do not forget to include the soft skills you have especially when they align with those mentioned in the job ad.
Share volunteer experience
Through volunteering, you can create experiences that are suited to your dream career. Interning or volunteering gives you a hint of what it is like to be in the industry. Besides, you can build a relevant network not just essential to land you a job but also for your rise in the chosen career.
Try reaching out to organizations within your chosen field for a volunteer role or an internship position. Also, if you are currently working and considering a switch in career, you could volunteer at a unit in your current company that is in line with your dream. While this is usually unpaid, you get to create the experience your CV needs.
Discuss education and extracurricular activities
Your educational qualifications also matter. To many recruiters, this is also as important and considered along with work experience. If you do not have work experience, you can leverage your educational qualification and the skills you were able to Garner during your time in school.
Besides, experience could be gained in several areas. While you may not have direct industry experience, your extracurricular activities could furnish your resume. Did you take on any internship or volunteer roles while in school? Or were you part of a school club? Your experiences and achievements would be valuable in selling you to your prospective employer.
Trust your network
With no experience, you could launch your career with recommendations from those who know what you are capable of. Often, referrals and recommendations from an employer or a personal contact can give the needed boost.
For college students, attending job fairs, lectures, and events on campus is instrumental in building your network. Try speaking with the career unit to get you in touch with potential employers. You would also want to maintain contact with your colleagues or internship employers.
However, it is important to demonstrate your skills and maintain proper work conduct. People would only recommend those whose skills they can defend.
Take courses and seek certifications
Another way to stand out even without any experience is to take professional courses and get professional certifications. Many employers would consider you if you have the right qualifications for the job. If you do not have a degree, getting one would increase your chances of getting hired.
Similarly, taking extra courses also has benefits in boosting your resume. There are several online platforms that offer both free and paid courses you would find useful. Try registering with a professional body if your chosen career has one. Taking professional courses or seeking certifications marks you out as having an interest and commitment to the chosen career.
Don’t ignore your cover letter
Your cover letter is your shot to sell yourself. Give it your best. Using your cover letter, talk about your personality, your values, and how they align with the recruiters’ needs. You would want to tell them why you are the best for the role.
While you do not have experience, tell your story dwelling more on your skills and what value you would be providing to the new job. If you are changing careers, you might also want to include what prompts you to change.
Always remember to align yourself to the employer’s needs. You could also emphasize that you are willing to learn and mention the steps you have taken so far. Ensure your story is interesting and compelling. Remember to go over it again to ensure there are no typos.
Conclusion
Starting a new career is a bold step especially if you do not have experience in the field. Notwithstanding, with time and by selling your good part, landing your dream job is a reality. Whether as a new college graduate or one seeking a job change FlexMyFinances.com can guide you in starting your career.
