Typically this situation usually happens to students who are fresh of high school or college/university. Although having a good education is important companies crave that their candidates have some good work experience. Realistically, the kind of experience that companies are looking for is either rare or non-existent especially from a graduating student. So what can you do to beef up your experience-thin resume? Here are 10 ways you can.
1. Volunteer. This is one of the best things to do when your resume needs to get filled out. Although volunteering tends to be more of a personal matter, finding an opportunity is still a great way to build upon existing skills and learn more about non-for-profits. Also in some instances it is harder to find a volunteer position then a job!
2. Internship. Getting an internship in they field of your choosing is an excellent resume builder. It’s also sometimes difficult in getting one. That’s why you have to be a little creative. Find out smaller companies that may need your expertise and convince them how bringing them on will be a benefit to them. It also won’t hurt to say you are working for free! But remember getting an internship means that you must get a solid learning experience from the company.
3. Taking any part time job. In most cases taking any part-time job is the best way to break into the working world. Even if it isn’t the best position, just getting a start some where doing a menial task is better then wasting your time doing something else. Be sure to keep on applying even at the part time job.
4. Writing for a local newspaper. We all get those free papers wrapped up with a stack of grocery store and retail flyers. It also means a great opportunity for you to start building your experience. Call the newspaper up and find out if they need a writer. Be sure to think of some ideas you can pitch to them if they want to here more of what you can offer them. Don’t turn down any writing assignment. Keep on writing, communicating and learning! It will sharpen your interview skills, idea generating mind, and of course your writing will get much better.
5. Start blogging. Don’t hesitate on this one. Visit wordpress.com. Set up an account and start blogging for free! I recommend buying a domain name which looks a bit more professional as opposed to the WordPress name in your URL. Write about what you know or something you are passionate about. Even if it isn’t industry related, you are showing your knowledge and sharpening your writing skills.
6. Help small businesses for free. Pick up the phone and ask what areas they need help in. Explain your situation and someone will definitely give you a shot. For example, if you have good knowledge in social media offer a small business to help them with their Facebook account for free.
7. Be a mentor. Graduating without a job is tough and frustrating. Think about students you can help and how you can guide them. They may appreciate your experience going through an institution and just trying to find a job.
8. Learn social media, SEO and PPC. Even if your doing something completely different in a company or your specialization lies somewhere else this doesn’t give you the excuse not learn social media, SEO (search engine optimization,) and PPC (pay per click.) There are a host of free learning tools online to help you learn social media (Facebook Blueprint), and PPC (Bing Ads) and Hubspot Academy (Inbound marketing.) The great thing about the aforementioned learning tools is that they come with a nifty certificate when you have passed the final exams!
9. Build an online business. This seems tough, but anyone can do it. As you are looking for a job it’s a great idea to build an online business. Think about what education you have or what interests you. Then easily create a site with a personalized email, logo, and even some business cards. All in all, it will cost less than $200 to get started. The final aspect is registering your business. Find out the right place to contact about the process in your area. Seek out an expert who has set up a small business before and quickly fill out the paperwork!
10. Creating a photo portfolio. Go out and buy a camera, watch some YouTube videos and practice. Although not all of us can be great photographers, having this skill in your back pocket is good. It can double as a hobby and even a paying gig not to mention about the skill you can add to your resume. Additionally, there are so many ways you can use your new skill at: events, sharing on social media including Instagram and Pinterest, teaching others how to photograph, and even setting up photo shows.
briantrota.com 