Eric
Should I list work experience from before college that doesn't apply to my chosen career field when applying for my first job in my chosen field?
I have years of experience in assorted fields before I went to college. I am graduating soon, and want to get a job in programming. I have no technology field experience outside of coursework. Should I list my other experience on my resume, or just start fresh with college? #programming #information-technology #hiring
5 answers
Rahul B
Rahul’s Answer
It is very important to highlight all the experience you have for any type of job you have performed - in college, before college or after college.
A good recruiter always looks for diverse competencies and skills set. You can perhaps put one or two statements about all the combined experience you have had in all the fields.
This would only support in your favor not against.
Good luck!
Thank you for this answer.
Eric
Jeremy Jessup
Jeremy’s Answer
Yes! Some job history is better then no history. Especially if you were abhigh performer or were at the job for a long time. In order to know who you will be in the future, it helps to know who you were in the past. Also, if you don't mention the job its likely to come up after they've done a background check, so be honest up front. Especially since you're not likely to have a long job history at your age.
Thank you for this answer. I did find the last sentence comical; I am a college student, yes, but I have almost 20 years of work history. 🙂
Eric
Oh, sorry thought i was talking to a teen to lower 20s. In your case, just list the relevant experience and be prepared to explain in gaps in employment. Relevancy is not just jobs in that field, but jobs that demonstrate your strengths and accomplishments. I've conducted hundreds of interviews and I always as people about there gaps in employment history.
Jeremy Jessup
Thomas Fairbanks
Thomas’s Answer
It is always good to put job experience for the last 2-5 years. Majority of positions you apply for have the same skill requirements. Besides the programming aspect of your career, you will need to be a problem solver, have the ability to work solo or with others at times, have some basic presentation skills, and many other skills that you pick up in a variety of positions.
Personally I worked for McDonald's, Floor & Decor (flooring store), 7-11, an Aviation Interior Shop, and a company that worked contracts for the US Marines. While in these companies, I did not do any programming (in any language).
The skills I learned and honed from those companies (below).
~Interpersonal
~Leadership
~Risk Management
~Communication
~Teamwork
~FlexibilityAdaptability
~Work Ethic
~Time Management
~Confidence and Attitude
Nikki Gibson
Nikki’s Answer
I agree with the guidance already provided, yes, yes, yes I think it's important to list all work experience when completing a resume or applying online for job's. A lot of companies look for, and attribute key learning experiences that are considered "on the job" training which could assist you in showing why you're a good candidate for a role.
Thank you for this answer.
Eric
Adria Semien
Adria’s Answer
I don't believe it's necessary. Your resume should be geared towards honors and awards and/or college credits. You can even include volunteer work or any summer programs.