How To Get A Job With Limited Experience

How To Get A Job With Limited Experience

If you have limited experience but have one eye on the job or career you want, there is still a world of opportunity waiting for you.

The TeamJobs recruitment team shares their advice if you are ready to learn and eventually become a master in a new industry.

Lucy Eaton, senior recruitment consultant says, “If you have that itch you want to scratch and make that next step to apply, I would say you need to have a good reason why you want that role. For instance, you could have been on a college course and now have basic wiring skills. Whilst that wiring technician job could be a significant step up for you, make it apparent that you have a thirst to learn, develop and progress the skills you have. Employers want to see this, beyond the expectations of a salary.”

Hannah Sills, head of permanent and specialist recruitment, understands that a teachable fit has its place, no matter the level of experience, “Clients and candidates come to respect a recruiter's knowledge and what is required from a particular role. It is our role to understand the culture of the employer, the technical skills they need, and the personalities that can have a rightful place in the team. People are continually developing, learning, and growing. When businesses can nurture new team members, they become an asset.”

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (April 2021), there are several skills employers are looking for. If experience is holding you back, there are attributes that employers have an eye on, notably teamwork and problem-solving skills. Creativity and verbal communications skills are also acknowledged by those who are hiring. If you think experience is holding you back, recognise the other attributes you may have that you excel in and where your soft skills have a huge role to play.

Rob Bruce, senior recruitment consultant, shares his advice if industry experience is not quite on your side, just yet. “Make your career goal relevant to the job and employer. No matter what industry you are a part of, the dedication you give is what becomes acknowledged. The aspirations you have and how you can fit into the work ethic of a new employer is central to your efforts. Ok, you may have to start at an entry-level (so research a company), but no one ever cut corners to the longevity of a happy and fulfilling career.” 

It is important to have aspirations and to aim high, but if you have little previous experience for a role, beginning a search for senior roles can be a waste of time and energy. Success comes from being proactive, having people to chat to, and researching those companies and industries that grab your interest. As the saying goes, ‘focus on the journey, not the destination.’