Getting work experience for students

You may have always wanted to work in a particular field, it is your dream, but without experience how do you get that job? If you are new to the labour market or if you are already in what you consider to be a dead end job, you will feel that you need to be in your dream job already to get the work experience. If you are focused fully on the dream job, you will get to the place you want to be, but you may have to deal with disappointments along the way.

Firstly you need to get a job in the industry you want to work in, but you don’t have experience right? You may have already done your research, if not you will have to find out as much as you can about the industry to broaden your knowledge base.

If you are still in education, student summer jobs may be available in the industry you are interested in. Don’t be put off that you may be doing the lowest job, it is a start, and the only way from the bottom is up.

The only option available to you may be to temp. For instance you may be looking for a job as a financial adviser and you are only able to get a temporary job at the office front desk, but you will be surprised at the valuable interpersonal skills and knowledge you will attain in that role. If you are temping, a permanent role may come up that you can apply for and of course the work experience you have attained, plus the evidence that you are a hard working reliable employee will be to your advantage. If a permanent role does not come up for you, don’t let that hold you back. Look elsewhere in the industry as your growing knowledge and experience will strengthen your resume and you will be able to provide names for references.

Be open to all options to gain experience, if you can’t find anything full time in your specified industry try a part time job search. You may be in a situation where you work a regular full time job or part time job and you can also take on part time work in the field you are aiming to get into and as well as getting the work experience, you will also earn extra money, making it a win win situation.

There may be a home based job, these are often computer jobs from home, that will help you attain the experience you need whilst you continue your regular job.

Personal attributes like showing commitment and initiative are as important as work experience. Doing charity or voluntary work are ways to build these personal attributes.

Come back often and visit our blog site for articles, tips and job opportunities.

by Jackie Pitman CFO evo-go