15 answers
Claire
Student
Portland, Oregon
3
Questions
Asked
1766 views
What is the best way to get work experience?
Everywhere I want to work, even small retail jobs, seems to ask for work experience, so how do I get that experience in the first place? #retail #food-service
Login to comment
15 answers
Mary McCoy
SEEKING NEW OPPORTUNITIES
5
Answers
Updated
Mary’s Answer
Claire
That is a great question. It is not uncommon to be caught in a loop (need experience for the job, need job for the experience).
Look at your non working experience such as school actvities, Group memberships such as Girl Scouts, church youth group and volunteering. Use this as a skill to add to the application especially if you held an office within the group. This is an opportunity to showcase your leadership skills, and that you are reliable and mature. Also include if you were paid to babysit again to show maturity, reliability and leadership skills. firstjob retail-marketing noworkexperience
Keep us posted, hope this helps
That is a great question. It is not uncommon to be caught in a loop (need experience for the job, need job for the experience).
Look at your non working experience such as school actvities, Group memberships such as Girl Scouts, church youth group and volunteering. Use this as a skill to add to the application especially if you held an office within the group. This is an opportunity to showcase your leadership skills, and that you are reliable and mature. Also include if you were paid to babysit again to show maturity, reliability and leadership skills. firstjob retail-marketing noworkexperience
Keep us posted, hope this helps
Rosie Romo
Executive Chef
20
Answers
California, California
Updated
Rosie’s Answer
Claire,
Say yes to everything, don't be afraid to do whatever it takes to get a job. Make sure to tell employers that you are not afraid of hard work and will do whatever is asked of you.
Say yes to everything, don't be afraid to do whatever it takes to get a job. Make sure to tell employers that you are not afraid of hard work and will do whatever is asked of you.
Alexandra Capobianco
Data Specialist, Communications Major
10
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Alexandra’s Answer
Hi Claire,
This is a tough question, and something even experienced workers deal with! The best way to gain experience is to start as small as possible. What I mean by that is to try to create experience from what you already have available to you. Do you take part in any groups at school? Can you volunteer for your school or other organizations? Have you ever babysat any kids or mowed lawns for money? Maybe a paper route? I found it easiest to get my first job in fast food at McDonald’s, and I worked there for about a year before applying to a retail job as a cashier. You can also try asking friends of your parents or other people you know if they would give you a recommendation to work where they’re working. My first retail job was under my grandmas friebd, who was the manager. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try volunteering or networking with different companies. Don’t give up, you’ll find the right place!
This is a tough question, and something even experienced workers deal with! The best way to gain experience is to start as small as possible. What I mean by that is to try to create experience from what you already have available to you. Do you take part in any groups at school? Can you volunteer for your school or other organizations? Have you ever babysat any kids or mowed lawns for money? Maybe a paper route? I found it easiest to get my first job in fast food at McDonald’s, and I worked there for about a year before applying to a retail job as a cashier. You can also try asking friends of your parents or other people you know if they would give you a recommendation to work where they’re working. My first retail job was under my grandmas friebd, who was the manager. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try volunteering or networking with different companies. Don’t give up, you’ll find the right place!
Steve Swisher
Procurement / Supply Chain Category Manager
35
Answers
The Woodlands, Texas
Updated
Steve’s Answer
It's always easiest if you or your parents know someone who owns their own business. This is a great way to get hired and to start building your work history. Suggest working for 2 years at any job, if possible, to as to show that you are not a job-hopper. Try to secure a letter of recommendation at each job you work at and this can be useful when you interview for the next/larger role in the future. The best predictor of future performance is past performance as they say and this referral letter will be valuable to you. Always do more than you are paid to do, and eventually you will be paid more for what you do are words from a wise man.
Happy job hunting!
Happy job hunting!
Jess Stokas
Optical supervisor
3
Answers
Cincinnati, Ohio
Updated
Jess’s Answer
Hi there,
Looking for a job to gain experience can be intimidating! Looking back on when I had my first few jobs, I wish I would have done research on what it is that employers look for. Pertaining to the job you might be applying for of course. I gained several years of customer service experience on my first job at 16, during that interview I would use any and all scenarios or experience I had from school or school programs to answer interview questions or explain how my skills would be beneficial to the job.
Looking for a job to gain experience can be intimidating! Looking back on when I had my first few jobs, I wish I would have done research on what it is that employers look for. Pertaining to the job you might be applying for of course. I gained several years of customer service experience on my first job at 16, during that interview I would use any and all scenarios or experience I had from school or school programs to answer interview questions or explain how my skills would be beneficial to the job.
Shanim KT
TAC Engineer
3
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Shanim’s Answer
Hello Claire ,
To get a good work experience in any field, you can try joining as an intern in any reputed firm which is easier than getting a full time job .
To get a good work experience in any field, you can try joining as an intern in any reputed firm which is easier than getting a full time job .
LaWanda Shouvely(Candi)
Experienced Eligibility/Caseworker
4
Answers
Lithonia, Georgia
Updated
LaWanda’s Answer
Hello Claire,
With the holiday season coming up , a lot of retail stores are hiring. This would be a good time to apply. If you have any volunteer experience put that on your application. Also, if you have a marketing department/ class at your school, check with them about jobs they may be able to get you on somewhere. Actually, my second job was through my marketing class in high school. There are places that hire students with no experience, so just keep looking.
Hope this helped out some. Good luck on your search.
With the holiday season coming up , a lot of retail stores are hiring. This would be a good time to apply. If you have any volunteer experience put that on your application. Also, if you have a marketing department/ class at your school, check with them about jobs they may be able to get you on somewhere. Actually, my second job was through my marketing class in high school. There are places that hire students with no experience, so just keep looking.
Hope this helped out some. Good luck on your search.
Lewis Hagerman
Senior Retail Operations Manager
13
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Lewis’s Answer
I love the advice of looking for a seasonal position. I work in a field where we hire seasonal staff regularly, often with little to no experience from local community colleges and universities. Be enthusiastic in your interview, show an interest in your cover letter or follow-up call, such as complimenting their product, marketing, social media, etc. It shows that you've done more than fill out an application.
Additionally, an appealing trait of a new employee with little or no experience is they don't have bad habits from other jobs and often times have a positive attitude. Be willing to learn & unafraid of the most mundane tasks (I've cleaned bathrooms & taken out tons of garbage). Show an interest and willingness to work. Like myself, most managers have seen the good & bad of new hires, so we recognize when a staff member is actually wanting to succeed and that work ethic can often times lead to more regular hours & recognition (such as Employee of the Month).
Most importantly, be patient. Like mentioned above, apply at multiple positions and places that interest you, as one should bite. Fill out the extra areas of an application, such as a cover letter, introduction, etc. The more you offer us, the more we know about you and can consider you as more than a job application that nobody put effort into filling out! Find ways to make yourself stand out on paper!
Find ways to make yourself stand out on paper. Be creative!
Be willing to do the mudane tasks.
Be ready and willing to learn. Following what you're taught in training will only lead to positives.
Be genuine & enthusiastic in your interview.
Find multiple companies and entry-level positions that interest you and APPLY!
Additionally, an appealing trait of a new employee with little or no experience is they don't have bad habits from other jobs and often times have a positive attitude. Be willing to learn & unafraid of the most mundane tasks (I've cleaned bathrooms & taken out tons of garbage). Show an interest and willingness to work. Like myself, most managers have seen the good & bad of new hires, so we recognize when a staff member is actually wanting to succeed and that work ethic can often times lead to more regular hours & recognition (such as Employee of the Month).
Most importantly, be patient. Like mentioned above, apply at multiple positions and places that interest you, as one should bite. Fill out the extra areas of an application, such as a cover letter, introduction, etc. The more you offer us, the more we know about you and can consider you as more than a job application that nobody put effort into filling out! Find ways to make yourself stand out on paper!
Lewis recommends the following next steps:
Katya Lev
Financial center manager
117
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Katya’s Answer
Hi Claire, I know it’s difficult because this is something I believe everyone experience. I certainly did even after graduating college. I wanted to start from mid level position and I realized that I need to start from the very beginning.
My best recommendations get a job that fits your personality- e]in the retail store- since most of the job requirement do want you to have a client experience and able to work with others- working in retail/stores even during the summer or part time- will help you develop retail client experience. You will learn how to handle difficult clients, you will learn how to sell products, you will get inside on team projects- what example you will be preparing for holiday sales and decorating the stores and working with teams.
Also, you can get a job working Real Estate- from desk coordinator. this is also another great field to explore if you interested in learning about real estate. many medical offices are always seeking for front desk associates, front desk coordinator that greet and sign up patients.
try to put the resume together- even with your basis skills- because when you apply for the beginner jobs- the employee understand and most what they will attention is to see what you have done as extra curricular activities in schools, if you ever volunteering you should also include it on the resume, if you have any computer skills definitely should include. your objection- should state what purpose of work you are looking to do and what your passion is about. also, any recognition should be included -it will let employee get to know that you are competitive, hard worker , and someone who wants to accomplish things.
do you have your resume?
My best recommendations get a job that fits your personality- e]in the retail store- since most of the job requirement do want you to have a client experience and able to work with others- working in retail/stores even during the summer or part time- will help you develop retail client experience. You will learn how to handle difficult clients, you will learn how to sell products, you will get inside on team projects- what example you will be preparing for holiday sales and decorating the stores and working with teams.
Also, you can get a job working Real Estate- from desk coordinator. this is also another great field to explore if you interested in learning about real estate. many medical offices are always seeking for front desk associates, front desk coordinator that greet and sign up patients.
try to put the resume together- even with your basis skills- because when you apply for the beginner jobs- the employee understand and most what they will attention is to see what you have done as extra curricular activities in schools, if you ever volunteering you should also include it on the resume, if you have any computer skills definitely should include. your objection- should state what purpose of work you are looking to do and what your passion is about. also, any recognition should be included -it will let employee get to know that you are competitive, hard worker , and someone who wants to accomplish things.
do you have your resume?
Kei Mercado
53
Answers
Updated
Kei’s Answer
Hi Claire.
Here are some of my recommendations:
1. Join clubs that require on the job training
2. Volunteer in communities that offer part-time jobs for your age group
3. Reach out to professionals within your community and join any forums, activities that will give you your first-hand work experience
Good luck!
Here are some of my recommendations:
1. Join clubs that require on the job training
2. Volunteer in communities that offer part-time jobs for your age group
3. Reach out to professionals within your community and join any forums, activities that will give you your first-hand work experience
Good luck!
James Newbery
Retail sales - training - leadership
40
Answers
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Updated
James’s Answer
That is a great question - it is really important to keep an open mind and try and stay positive. Totally be open to opportunities as and when they come and something will come up for you. I would look at what your interests are and connect with local organisations that can support you. Example of that is universities, colleges, local sport clubs or charities etc. Also maybe connect with companies as well and see if they have a work experience program in place? I think the challenge is putting yourself out there and something will come up! :)
Nada L
IT Software
123
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Nada’s Answer
This is a great question!
Regardless of whether you're a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience or a fresh graduate wanting to move into teaching, having a clear, succinct, and impactful CV is crucial. Given that you've recently left school, a one-page CV would be ideal, but remember, it needs to be distinctive!
In the current job market, there are numerous valuable educational resources and templates that you can utilize. For instance, I discovered an outstanding CV template on Etsy, which I bought and simply filled in the gaps. Typically, the first page serves as an introduction or cover letter, presenting who you are and why you believe you're the perfect fit for the role. The second page is your actual CV, highlighting your relevant experience and skills for the position.
Skills are transferable! Its great to check out your dream job on LinkedIn or other job sites, identify the necessary skills and then consider how you can acquire these skills through a more accessible role, such Customer Service experience in retail or Fast food OR even at school, if you had any accolade's from school that demonstrated a great work ethic eg letter from teacher. You can also tailor your CV to emphasize Transferable Skills over specific job titles, making you a more attractive candidate for a wider range of roles, rather than being restricted to jobs based on your previous titles. To find examples, just search for Transferable skills CV example online.
I hope this advice is beneficial. And remember, your career is a journey, not a destination. You may start in one area and end up in another - there are not short cuts in life. That's completely fine. Embrace the journey!
Regardless of whether you're a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience or a fresh graduate wanting to move into teaching, having a clear, succinct, and impactful CV is crucial. Given that you've recently left school, a one-page CV would be ideal, but remember, it needs to be distinctive!
In the current job market, there are numerous valuable educational resources and templates that you can utilize. For instance, I discovered an outstanding CV template on Etsy, which I bought and simply filled in the gaps. Typically, the first page serves as an introduction or cover letter, presenting who you are and why you believe you're the perfect fit for the role. The second page is your actual CV, highlighting your relevant experience and skills for the position.
Skills are transferable! Its great to check out your dream job on LinkedIn or other job sites, identify the necessary skills and then consider how you can acquire these skills through a more accessible role, such Customer Service experience in retail or Fast food OR even at school, if you had any accolade's from school that demonstrated a great work ethic eg letter from teacher. You can also tailor your CV to emphasize Transferable Skills over specific job titles, making you a more attractive candidate for a wider range of roles, rather than being restricted to jobs based on your previous titles. To find examples, just search for Transferable skills CV example online.
I hope this advice is beneficial. And remember, your career is a journey, not a destination. You may start in one area and end up in another - there are not short cuts in life. That's completely fine. Embrace the journey!
Jim Choi
Sales
4
Answers
Macau
Updated
Jim’s Answer
Hi Carlie,
It is pleasure to answer your question. I think even you don't have any working experience but you still can got a job and you need to remember something like:
Tell employer what you know and what you can do but don't say a lie.
Tell employer you are hard work and you will learn.
Show your passion to employer.
All the best!!!
It is pleasure to answer your question. I think even you don't have any working experience but you still can got a job and you need to remember something like:
Tell employer what you know and what you can do but don't say a lie.
Tell employer you are hard work and you will learn.
Show your passion to employer.
All the best!!!
Hillary Borjas
Manager
1
Answer
Albertville, Alabama
Updated
Hillary’s Answer
Take any opportunity you can Clair!!
Kong Lam
General Manager
2
Answers
Updated
Kong’s Answer
Great question! As mentioned in a prior post, school activities, babysitting or an internship could be classified as relevant work experience. Hiring managers are mainly looking for people that are friendly, have the ability to interact with people and most importantly a willingness to learn.
Recently I hired a person who had no sales experience and limited tech experience to a sales position selling technology. The individual demonstrated strong interpersonal skills and eagerness to learn. Now fast forward 7 months, the individual leads the location in several key categories. Knowledge can be taught as long as the person has the right attitude. Do not let anyone tell you can't do something, power through and learn from prior experiences to get to a YES!
Kong recommends the following next steps: