We have been told that having a degree of any kind is very important to landing what we call the "dream job." What we haven’t been told was that there was more to it. Too many times and too often undergraduates and graduates go out there into the workforce thinking that once I have a degree I am guaranteed a job. Then reality sets in -- employers want experience. Well how does one get experience if we never had the chance to get it? Here’s how.
High school
Think about high school or even junior high/middle school. Did you do any extracurricular activities? For example, think about the time you worked for the school newspaper or debate team. What about the special projects you did for extra credit, like painting the school? Will this help me land that job?
Work Study & Internships
What’s a better way to gain experience along the way then by working while studying. Also named work-study, this is a good way to have your cake and eat it too. Remember: a lot of people are competing for the same job you want. This is also a good way for you to understand how hard it is to get a job and how you must keep working at it to reach your goal.
An internship is another way to get experience. Maybe your career field has an internship available. Do your researches online, on campus, fax an inquiry, and/or call on the phone. Make sure that you meet their requirements before venturing out; some colleges might even require internships before graduation! This will give you a chance to be at an actual job in your profession and get some training in. Some internships pay you to train; some do not pay at all. This will tell you whether you want to pursue the degree or switch to another field.
Employment Agencies and On the Job Training
Trying out a temp agency can put a spark of experience into your resume. Do not hesitate to do your research on the right agency for you. Some do require experience; some do not. Tell the recruiter what job you are looking for so he or she can find the right job that fits who you are, whether it’s temporary, seasonal, or temp-to-hire.
There are some jobs that offer on the job training (i.e., no experience necessary, will train). If you land that kind of job, you will get to work and get training. The training may begin during or after orientation, right before you dive head first in your job. It will tell you what you need to know and prepare for; after a specified number of weeks a job will be waiting for you. It’s a rare find, but if successful, take advantage of it.
Volunteer
This may be your last option, but a very good one. Volunteering will help you get the experience you need for a resume boost. Of course you must ask or apply to volunteer so research where you want to be. Once in, make time to volunteer as often as your schedule allows. The sacrifice is not getting paid for your work, but the experience you gain will help you find work in the near future or maybe help you score a job right where you are.
Having any kind of experience is better than no experience at all. Be persistent and try to get as much experience as you can to build your resume to the dream job you desire.
Sources:
How Do I Get A Job When I Have No Relevant Experience
Emphasise Your Work Experience When You Have None
Write Work Experience When You Have None
Tonya Reynolds - My life lesson would be to just try, 'cause you'll never know where writing or anything else can take you.
