When you're looking for a new job, it's easy to second guess yourself. It's probably natural and normal that most people do it, but don't sell yourself short. Honestly assess your education, skills, background, desires and potential, but also give yourself credit where credit is due. On the other hand, if you lack experience in a field or you're not receiving as many callbacks as you'd like, there are steps you can take to overcome little experience in a particular arena.
Begin by thoroughly examining the jobs that interest you, and making the commitment to go the extra mile to entice hiring managers. Once you've made some sacrifices to achieve the necessary credentials, you'll feel confident in your accomplishments, and those credentials will stand out to hiring managers as a sign of your passion and dedication to the career field you'd like to join. Below are just a few ways to attract the hiring manager's interest in you and your experience.
1. Volunteer
There's no better way to gain valuable experience and to contribute to the well-being of your community than volunteering. The right volunteering opportunity can give you the kind of diverse real-world experience in your field that can translate to valuable knowledge in your career. Start searching for volunteer opportunities online; there are several websites that can help you find an opportunity that works for you.
2. Work as an Unpaid Intern
Though not as altruistic as volunteering, an unpaid internship may be a position within the company for which you want to work. Working for that company can give you a preview of the workplace experience in the environment. An internship can also give your prospective employer a chance to see your work on a trial basis.
3. Enroll in Classes to Further Your Education
Sometimes additional knowledge can help prove your skills to your prospective employer. Online education is one way for you to take that extra step toward your dream career and job. You may even indicate your desire and willingness to learn or take additional classes to the hiring manager during the course of your interview if they present additional skills that come as a surprise to you.
4. Become Involved With a Trade Organization in Your Field
Membership in a professional or trade organization can help you get to know your peers in the field, which is an effective way to network. Being a part of a trade organization can also give you valuable insight into the nature of the job you want, skills that the job will require, and ways to achieve those skills and become the most qualified person for the job.
5. Project Your Excitement for and Commitment to the Job
Sometimes sincere passion can positively affect others. If you go into your interview with enthusiasm and confidence, you can convey your passion to the interviewer. Let them know that you are willing to learn and grow with the company if they believe in you and invest in you.
Jesse Langley is a writer and editor living in Indianapolis. He writes on behalf of Colorado Technical University.
