It’s no secret that graduate and entry level jobs are in high demand, with job hunters applying in their hundreds to fill a handful of positions. Graduates who interview for entry level jobs often find the role has been filled by someone with more experience. If this sounds like something you have experienced, don’t fear as we have put together our best tips on how you can secure your first step on the career ladder and get a job with no experience.
Utilise the skills and contacts gained at school and university
Don’t discredit the skills and experiences gained throughout education. Whilst applying for jobs, think of your time in education as real-world experience. Discuss the skills learnt and insights gained during any relevant modules or assignments. If your degree isn’t related to the job you’re applying for, think about the transferable skills that would support your application.
Try to approach your university contacts for opportunities too, did you ever have a guest speaker from a company that impressed you? There is no harm in emailing them to ask about upcoming opportunities that you could apply for.
Tailor your job applications
Whilst this may seem obvious, it’s important to tailor your CV and cover letter to suit each application you make. Treat each application as a fresh opportunity to showcase how your skills will be an asset for each specific position. We have created a template CV and template cover letter that you can use to help with your applications.
Refer to previous experiences in your applications
Whether you had a part-time role alongside your studies, or have been temping with Unitemps, your previous work experience is vital in securing your first steps on the career ladder. When applying for a role, think about any previous experiences that draw on the characteristics of the job. Skills like customer service, cash handling, being adaptable and punctual can be picked up in any job and transferred, so don’t overlook them! They could make you stand out from other applicants.
Think about alternative routes into the sector
Many graduates will come across the age-old problem that employers require sector specific experience, with few offering it. This is where graduates must think outside the box. Whilst it is great to aim high, setting smaller goals will help your overall journey up the ladder.
Whether it’s putting your services out there for a reduced rate, applying for part-time work experience or thinking about volunteering roles. Having these experiences will not only show you the structure of corporate companies, helping to inform you of job roles you could apply for in the future, but it also shows employers that you use initiative and are actively looking for ways to gain more experience.
Another way to get a job with no experience is to look for alternative roles within the sector. For example, if you have always wanted to get into marketing, look at administrator roles that serve the marketing team and work your way up. Keep your horizons broad and think about all the possible roles within a team that you could apply for.
Create a professional portfolio
To land an entry level job you need to stand out. Whilst there are many ways to stand out, creating a professional portfolio allows you to keep all your best projects in one place. If you can create a digital portfolio, employers can look at this alongside your application to get a better idea of projects you have worked on and your style of working.
Your professional portfolio can contain work from both paid and unpaid jobs, as well as projects you worked on at university. If you get to interview stage, taking your portfolio will be a great talking point and will add context to your experiences.
We hope this guide has given you some useful tips on how to get a job with no experience. The main thing is not to give up, keep putting yourself out there and eventually the persistence will pay off when the perfect opportunity comes your away.
Take a look at the latest graduate positions available through Unitemps or read more career advice.
Last updated on 28 May 2024
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