find yourself in a catch-22 situation where you need experience to land your first job, but you’re daunted by the process of finding those opportunities to get there? we get it.
so what really is the solution here; how do you get the right start to your career?
understanding what skills help in your first job:
when it comes to landing your first job, it's essential to understand what skills and experiences are valued by employers. while you may not have years of professional experience under your belt, you can leverage your internships, projects, and extracurricular activities to demonstrate relevant skills.
employers often look for qualities such as teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and adaptability. highlighting these transferable skills can make a significant impact on your job applications.
how to talk about your experience:
even if your internships or extracurricular activities seem unrelated to your desired career path, they still hold value. take the time to reflect on the skills you acquired and the challenges you faced during these experiences. when discussing them in interviews or on your resume, emphasize the transferable skills you developed and how they can contribute to the role you're applying for. employers appreciate candidates who can demonstrate a diverse skill set and a willingness to learn.
when writing about your experience, be “results-oriented”: quantify your experience and put numbers to much as you can. here are some great examples of how you can get started.
remember, it’s all about the narrative that you create around the experience that you do have!
what to do when you feel like you "don't have any experience":
it's natural to feel discouraged when you perceive yourself as lacking experience. however, remember that experience comes in many forms, and it's all about how you present it. consider your academic projects, volunteer work, part-time jobs, or even personal projects that showcase your skills and dedication. don't underestimate the value of these experiences!
be confident in sharing what you have accomplished and how it has shaped your abilities and mindset.
tips for gaining experience:
seek out freelance or gig opportunities. these can be an excellent way to gain practical experience while still studying. look for platforms or websites that offer freelance projects related to your field of interest – you can even work for friends & family! this will help you build your portfolio and demonstrate your abilities to potential employers.
take online courses or certifications: online learning platforms offer a wealth of courses and certifications that can enhance your knowledge and skills. identify areas where you feel you lack expertise and explore relevant courses. completing these courses demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and equips you with industry-relevant knowledge.
participate in relevant industry events: industry events such as conferences, seminars, or webinars provide excellent networking opportunities and a chance to learn from experts. attend these events, engage with professionals in your desired field, and make meaningful connections. even if you don't have direct experience, showing genuine interest and curiosity can leave a lasting impression.
don’t get bogged down.
remember: with the right mindset and a clever narrative, you can make your cv stand out from the crowd.
everyone starts somewhere, and your determination, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn will set you apart. believe in your potential, and you'll be well on your way to forging a successful career path!
leap.club campus is a platform built only for women in undergrad and postgrad colleges. here’s where you can leverage the power of leap.club and get the right start to your career: access jobs & internships that matter, and mentorship hours with industry experts that help you move the needle.
tap below to sign up for the waitlist!
– your friends at leap.club