If you are new to the corporate culture or looking to change industries, you may believe that your lack of experience will hurt your job prospects. Knowing where to look for entry-level jobs and how to interview for them can be challenging, especially if you lack experience. The following article will give some pointers on finding entry-level jobs.
What is an “entry-level job”?
Depending on the industry, an entry-level position may take on a different appearance, but they all serve the same purpose—to assist workers in gaining knowledge and experience.
The term “entry-level” can signify one of two things: either a position that does not require any relevant experience or education or a stepping stone into a career that requires a minimal level of training and work experience.
What defines a position as “entry-level”?
Due to the fact that you will probably need to complete some on-the-job training in order to succeed, entry level jobs are often ones that you may execute without any formal training or experience. Jobs at the entry-level can be full- or part-time. This job can be the first one for some folks.
The first significant role you take on as your career begins, however, can also be in an entry-level position. Although you can still anticipate some training, your employer will probably expect you to have some familiarity with the task as well as the necessary credentials, particularly in disciplines like cybersecurity or data analysis.
What qualities do employers seek in entry-level employees?
While hiring managers recognise that people applying for entry-level positions frequently have limited professional experience, they do look for certain characteristics in candidates, such as:
- The job necessitates specific technical abilities.
- Internships or volunteer work
- Communication and customer service skills are transferable.
How to search an Entry-Level Job as a High School Graduate
If you have recently graduated or are about to graduate from high school, your school may have some options for you. Check-in with your career counsellor as they may have community opportunities through previous students or partnerships that could lead to traineeships or apprenticeships.
Vocational training can be a great option, especially for recent high school graduates, because many trades are in high demand. Apprenticeships and traineeships allow you to start earning, gain experience and obtain a qualification on which to build a career.
As skilled tradespeople are in short supply in Australia, your options are unlimited. You can find work as a chef, hairdresser, or mechanic just as easily.
How to Apply for Entry-Level Jobs?
If you lack experience in your desired field, you may need to be more creative in your pitch. Consider the skills and qualifications you’ve gained through previous paid or volunteer work and how you can apply them to the job you’re looking for.
Here are some strategies for standing out from the crowd and landing an entry-level position.
1. Highlight your skills on your resume
Many hiring managers genuinely worry about whether candidates can learn the necessary skills. In other positions, organisations, or volunteer opportunities, use your resume to demonstrate how you have evolved key skills such as communication and collaboration.
2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job
Even if you have little experience, you should alter your resume and cover letter for every new job you apply for. Examine the job description for the entry-level position you intend to use, and prioritise these key skills and experiences in your application.
3. Maintain your social media profiles
Employers are now reviewing social media profiles to assess candidates and ascertain who might be a better match for their organisations. Examine everything you’ve ever posted on your social media profiles and delete anything that does not reflect the professional image you want to project.
Also, make sure your LinkedIn profile has a professional, up-to-date photo. Also, ask previous supervisors from internships or volunteer organisations to leave you a recommendation. To make it easier for them, offer to create a draught they can revise in their own words and post to LinkedIn.
4. Networking
Attend networking events and inform people that you’re searching for an entry-level position and the expected job profile. Connect on LinkedIn with people who work at a company to see if you share any mutual connections. You can invite one of the employees you meet for coffee to learn more about the company and any available positions. Impress them with your thoroughness, and they may be willing to recommend you.
It’s also worth mentioning that in many entry-level job interviews, the difference between getting hired and not can be as simple as attitude. You have a great opportunity to get the job if you demonstrate that you are hardworking and confident. While finding a job with no experience can be difficult, the key is staying positive!
Please contact your placement consultant if you require additional assistance with developing your resume, searching for jobs, or determining what educational opportunities you may be eligible for.