If you find yourself discouraged by the job search because you lack the experience desired, it may still be possible to nab the job you want. While experience is important, job seekers changing fields or fresh out of college still have the capabilities to impress hiring managers with their transferable skills and eager personalities.
Showcase Your Ambition
You don't have to hold off on applying to jobs that you may not be qualified for during your job search. Instead, showcase your initiative and ambition with a well-written cover letter that highlights just how much you are willing and eager to learn as a new employee. Spend time detailing how you are gaining skills by seeking out professional development opportunities or taking internships to familiarize yourself with the industry. Employers who see you as someone who's willing to put in the effort to learn all aspects of the position may be more apt to take a chance on you.
Highlight Your Soft Skills
Although hard skills and knowledge of software, hardware and industry-specific operations are important, employers are also seeking candidates who can relate to customers and co-workers. This is where your soft skills come into play. Outline how you are detail- and deadline-oriented in your cover letter, include achievements and scenarios of client communication you've had in the past, and describe your positive disposition to win over the hiring manager viewing your application materials. The more time you spend during your job search polishing your soft skills, the better chance you have to impress potential employers.
Target Your Professional Network
Even though you may not have the experience required for your dream position, you may luck out by nabbing an interview through a connection from a professional in the field. Focus your job search on making valuable connections with people who work within your industry by attending local networking events and offering to present or speak at industry conferences. Employers want job seekers who are well-versed and represented within the industry. Work with a mentor or member of your network to build your brand and establish an online presence as an expert so your lack of experience is not the primary focus when meeting with hiring managers.
Know the Jargon
Knowledge is power when you don't have the experience. Showcase what you do know about the field by learning the jargon and the ins and outs of operations within companies you hope to work for in the future. Spend ample time during your job search researching firms so you are armed with information that can help you win over potential employers.
Experience is crucial when interviewing for positions; however, experience is not the only aspect of your professional persona that hiring managers evaluate. Showcase your eagerness, enthusiasm and willingness to learn during the job search to increase your opportunities within the field.
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