Employers often look to hire people with experience – but how can you gain experience when employers refuse to consider candidates with no experience?
In this exclusive article from GoZambiaJobs.com, we explore why employers might ask for experience and outline how you can improve your chances of finding employment with little or no work experience.
Why do employers ask for experience?
Employers like candidates with experience for many reasons. For example, candidates with experience are often able to deliver results immediately and without the cost of any additional training. Furthermore, employers often prefer applicants with work experience, as they are perceived to have a better understanding of how to behave in a work environment rather than an educational environment, such as school, college, or university.
What can you do if you have little or no work experience?
1. Put knowledge into practice
You can gain vital experience by putting your knowledge into practice. For example, if you have studied accountancy, why not volunteer to help friends or family who have a business with their accounts? Alternatively, you could offer to work part-time or as a summer intern for organisations that rely on volunteers, such as charities and church groups. Furthermore, you could try to find freelance work as a way to start building your work experience.
2. Uncover hidden experience
Spent the summer helping the family business? You were part of a small business, responsible for sales, marketing, finance, and customer service. Worked part-time in a fast-food restaurant? You worked as part of a dynamic team, providing excellent customer service and learning about the food industry with an emphasis on retail. Whatever you think of your work experience, it is probably of great value to an employer. It is the same for projects or activities that you may have been involved with whilst studying. Try to think about all the experience you have gained throughout your life – you may be surprised by how much experience you have actually acquired.
3. Be proactive
Set targets for the number of job applications and speculative applications that you send. Attend recruitment events, submit speculative job applications, and network whenever possible. Always have a copy of your CV to hand and be prepared to quickly explain your skills and the benefits you can bring to an employer. If you find that your approach to job seeking is not working, consider changing your approach. If you find that you do not have the skills required by employers, consider studying in order to gain these skills. If you are low on funds there are many online courses that you can take for free.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while employers often seek candidates with experience, there are several ways to build your experience even if you have little or none. Start by applying your knowledge in real-world situations through volunteering, internships, or freelance work. Don’t overlook the value of “hidden experience” gained through personal projects or part-time jobs. Finally, be proactive in your job search by setting clear goals, networking, and continuously improving your skills. By staying committed and adaptable, you can increase your chances of finding employment, even without prior work experience!
Further Information
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