Finding a Job
Finding a job is a tough call, especially when you do not have experience. Whether you are looking for your first job out of school, or need to find any job, it is not easy. But not impossible using some strategies.
There are a huge range of jobs, while they may be low paid, you can apply for without much experience. Sure, working as a housemaid in a big hotel may not be your dream job. At least you are working. Use this type of job as a stepping stone for experience.
What do you do when you see a job for a cashier at a local grocery store and have no experience? Or, want to apply for a laboring job with the local builder but have never worked on a building site. Do you write them off as not suitable? Consider this. Do you really have no experience? A cashier needs good people skills, and a laborer needs to listen and take direction. Everything else is easy to teach.
Soft skills employers look for
Many employers are not too concerned about actual job experience for some jobs but focus on personal skills. These are abilities not related to a specific part of the job known as soft skills in the job market. Everyone has them, sometimes without even knowing it. Here are a few ways to recognize them in yourself.
Communication matters
Communication is not about being a good talker. Communication is about following instructions, helping customers, and communicating clearly with others. Point out you have no trouble asking questions when your knowledge is lacking. Being a good communicator as a bar tender is a plus.
Self-motivation and initiative
Being self-motivated in the workplace is important. No one wants to hire someone they have to supervise all the time. After training you should need minimal supervision to get on with the job. A positive attitude can motivate you to take the initiative. These are valuable skills employers look for in new hires. They want to hire people to trust to get on with the job.
A flexible attitude
An inflexible attitude in a workplace is rarely welcomed. Employers want flexibility in the people they hire. It demonstrates a willingness to take on new challenges and tasks. Employers like to hire people with a positive attitude willing to help out wherever needed. Flexibility is an attractive skill often underrated.
Working as part of a team
Working in teams is of vital importance in many jobs. It takes a combination of other skills. You need an understanding and empathy for the responsibilities and needs of others. Play a team sport? Then you know how to work as part of a team.
Before you apply, research what sort of soft skills the particular industry values. For example, soft skills important in customer service are different to those for a laborer.
Finding a job without a resume
No matter what job you apply for, you may have some relevant experience. Draw on life examples to prove you understand job requirements. Here are some ways to get a job without having a resume.
Apply on line
In this day of technology employers use online applications to screen applicants. While you have the option to upload a resume, it may not be a requirement. The application will ask for specific details of work experience. You may have never worked before, but you still have experience.
Applying for a house maid position needs cleaning skills. Everyone has cleaning skills of some sort. Even if keeping your room clean translates into “keep my own home clean”. Or applying for a cashier job at a fast food store. You may not have money handling experience but have good communication skills. It is easy to teach someone how to run a cash register. Try teaching good customer handling skills. Volunteer work is about customer service and giving to the community. Employers value these skills.
Write down any skills that translate into employable skills. Passing freshman at high school demonstrates commitment and a willingness to take instruction. Playing team sport proves you know how to be a team player. Volunteer work in the local community is valuable work experience.
Reach out to your network
Reach out to your network of family, friends and acquaintances. Let them know you are looking for work. You never know what people know until you put it out there. There may be a friend of a friend who needs a kitchen hand. Or, a job just opened up at their own workplace. An employee’s recommendation helps get you noticed. Companies run employee rewards programs for recommending potential employees.
Use social media networks to let the world know you are available. You never know what opportunities are out there if you stay quiet. You can make valuable connections this way that lead to job opportunities. Even low paid work has its value. It shows future employers your work hard to move forward in life.
Demonstrate why to hire you
The best resumes are only a collection of words if you cannot support them with action. Volunteering for a community organization or offering to work for free for experience are ways to prove you have what it takes. Do you coach a local sports team or volunteer at the local aged home? Employers want to see these types of things in prospective employees. It shows a willingness to work and flexibility. Being proactive, taking initiative helps grow your work experience. And, chances of getting a job.
It does not matter what type of job. Applying for work as a laborer, filling shelves, delivery driver or house maid, it is all the same. Translate your life experience into employable skills to boost your application. Show how your skills translate into the working environment although you do not have specific work experience. It is the way you express life experiences to show you can do the job that matter.