Four ways to get noticed when you don’t have work experience

Instead of waiting for recruiters to find you, make the first move and seek them out (Photo: Shutterstock)

The job market is a cutthroat environment that can leave you feeling discouraged. Many of us grew up knowing that all we needed to do was work hard in school, pass our exams, join university and a job would quickly follow. The reality is completely different. Getting your foot in the door can take years, thousands of resumes and countless unanswered emails, phone calls and pitches, not to mention the required work experience that all recruiters seem to require.

Nevertheless, in this digital age, it’s easier to stand out from the crowd, setting yourself apart and get noticed professionally even when you don’t have traditional work experience.

Below are some tips on how to get noticed and get your dream job.

1. Set up a website

The easiest way to get noticed is by having an online presence solely dedicated to your professional life. It’s like a digital business card.

Create a website and showcase your skills and accomplishments. Ensure that your website has your biography, contact information, services you offer and a list of the work you have done (with corresponding links where possible). Keep your website professional and up-to-date.

Create a digital resume where you advertise your skills and services offered (Photo: Shutterstock)

2. Showcase your skills

You might have a skills section in your resume but this doesn’t necessarily impress recruiters since they can’t necessarily verify that what you have listed is true.

Through your website, you will be able to showcase your skills and provide examples as proof. This will impress recruiters and show them that you can think out of the box, are trustworthy and can be relied upon.

3. Connect with people in your industry

These days, thanks to social media, it’s easy to connect with likeminded individuals. Do an online search for groups on Facebook or other online platforms where people in your industry connect. Join these groups and participate in conversations and activities. Get yourself noticed by sharing your work.

Connecting with people in your field can open up opportunities for you. You might meet individuals who will introduce you to those who are more senior to you who can end up being recruiters and mentors.

Join online groups and forums where you can connect with people in your field (Photo: Shutterstock)

4. Make the first move

Say you meet someone you’d love to work with in the online groups mentioned above or you want to work at a particular company, be bold and make the first move. Send a cold email to prospective employers. In the email, state your name, what you do, how you came across the company, your skills and how you can use those skills for the benefit of the company.

There are thousands of job seekers so reaching out to recruiters instead of waiting for them to find you could be what sets you apart and lands you your dream job.