Chun
How can I accumulate work experience?
Now many recruitments require work experience. I wander as a college student, how I can accumulate work experience? #job #job-search #college-jobs #first-job #job-market
6 answers
Greg Parker
Greg’s Answer
Seek out internships and co-op opportunities through your school or online. These provide very good opportunities for those with little to no experience. I worked 4 different internships in college and found all of them through the university placement office, bulletin board postings, and being involved with clubs on campus.
Thank you!
Chun
While in college, internships, job boards & co-ops all help gain valuable work experience. Also, no matter what your job function, always do your best & always be willing to learn more & grow. Hope that helps!! Good luck!!
Joi Robinson
Dawnyale Oliver, MBA, PHR
Dawnyale’s Answer
In addition to internships, it couldn't hurt to participate in volunteer opportunities that may allow you to strengthen skills in your spare time. Ask professionals in organizations, teams and groups you're a part of if they are aware of any opportunities within your field you could assist with. Assisting a friend or family member with their businesses, participating in work-sponsored activities, or joining weekly groups that will allow you to gain additional experience would be a great way for you to gain experience that may be applicable to your career in the future.
Thank you!
Chun
anahi diaz
anahi’s Answer
1. **Internships and Co-op Programs:**
- Seek internships or cooperative education programs related to your field of study. These experiences often provide hands-on, industry-specific knowledge.
2. **Part-Time Jobs:**
- Take on part-time jobs, even if they are not directly related to your future career. Many jobs develop transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management.
3. **Volunteer Work:**
- Volunteer for organizations or causes aligned with your interests. Volunteering can showcase your commitment, expand your network, and provide relevant experience.
4. **Freelance or Gig Work:**
- Explore freelance opportunities or gig work that matches your skills. This can be a flexible way to gain experience while building a portfolio.
5. **Student Organizations and Leadership Roles:**
- Join student organizations relevant to your field. Consider taking on leadership roles to demonstrate your organizational and leadership skills.
6. **Research Projects:**
- Engage in research projects within your academic program or independently. Research experience can be valuable, especially if you plan to pursue advanced studies.
7. **Networking:**
- Attend networking events, conferences, and seminars in your field. Networking can lead to opportunities for internships, projects, or collaborative work.
8. **Informational Interviews:**
- Conduct informational interviews with professionals in your desired industry. Learn about their career paths and inquire about potential opportunities to gain experience.
9. **Online Platforms and Freelance Websites:**
- Explore online platforms and freelance websites that connect individuals with short-term projects. This can be a way to gain experience remotely.
10. **Industry Certifications and Training:**
- Pursue industry certifications and relevant training. Completing certifications can enhance your qualifications and make you more appealing to employers.
11. **Create a Personal Project:**
- Initiate a personal project related to your interests or career goals. This could be a blog, a website, a research paper, or any creative endeavor showcasing your skills.
12. **Participate in Competitions:**
- Enter competitions or hackathons related to your field. Winning or even participating in such events can be a valuable addition to your resume.
13. **LinkedIn and Online Portfolios:**
- Create a professional LinkedIn profile and consider developing an online portfolio. Showcase your experiences, projects, and skills to potential employers.
14. **Job Shadowing:**
- Arrange job shadowing opportunities with professionals in your industry. Observing daily tasks can provide insights and demonstrate your genuine interest.
15. **Seek Feedback and Improve:**
- Actively seek feedback from supervisors or mentors. Use constructive feedback to improve your skills and approach to work.
Remember to tailor your experiences to align with your career goals. Be proactive, stay open to opportunities, and continuously seek ways to expand your skill set and knowledge.
Blake H.
Blake’s Answer
I would highly recommend doing an internship! Many of them are paid and it will give you experience in your field of study.
Thanks,
Blake
Simeon Snow
Simeon’s Answer
Sheryl Gunn
Sheryl’s Answer
I don't know what year you are in college. If possible, work a summer job, but not a low-level fast-food type job... try to find something in your area. Talk to people in your field to find out if any low-level positions in their company and/or ask them to refer you to anyone who might know of an opportunity. Ask, ask, ask... with persistence (and a little luck), you will find something to get you started. Be prepared for low (or no) pay and grunt work. Nice to think "but I have a degree", but nearly everyone has to start at the bottom, and it provides you with a great knowledge base as you work your way up.
If you are still in college, join a group! The best option is one related to your career field, but if not available, join another group or volunteer with a local organization. Surprisingly, there are many activities that can be related to "work experience" that are not official, paid jobs. Be creative and think about the skills you are looking for and tie what you do to what want to emphasize as job experience.
Sheryl recommends the following next steps: