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By: Jaye T. Darden
Think about it. You don’t have enough experience, so how do you get the jobs that require experience, when they all require experience! It is certainly frustrating to see how everyone currently is looking for experienced people. If you don’t have enough experience do you even apply? Of course you do! You’re important and you’re talented. You may have what it takes to get the job without requiring all the experience. By making yourself and the skills you have shine, you can beat the odds.
Come up with ways to show you have the skills on your resume
This may seem like what you’re just naturally trying to do, but it’s not. When we think of experience we think of a time period. If the time period is what is holding you back, then come up with a creative way to show your experience that is comparable to the job. Have you even done anything that is similar to the job? Have you completed tasks that the job requirements would cover but the position was just named something else? Think creatively to overcome this barrier.
Another way to show experience is link your current experience with what you are applying for. Have you managed in food but not in hospitality? If so, then say it. let them know you have some experience in a different yet similar field. Let them know you can adapt and can make smart decisions.
Be sure to share any and all skill sets that you possess that could relate to the position. Even if they’re not a direct match for what they’re looking for, it can show that you have an idea of the responsibility this position entails.
Mix-match your experience to show that you can get the job done
Think about this, what are the skills the job is asking for? Do you have those skills? If you have utilized these skills somewhere else, then make it known. What other job experiences have you completed that shares the same skills? Many jobs are looking for people with proper communication skills and the ability to be organized. You also have the position to say to an employer “I am new to the position, so I have no bad habits to bring into the job with me.” This can turn a cover letter and resume into your ticket into the business.
In a world of non-experienced people, be the most experienced before you enter into the position-level you’re looking for
Well, isn’t that simple? Almost, but we have to be smart about it. There are internship experiences to be had in companies similar or the exact one you’re applying for. There may be a job at a lower level you need to take that will help build you up to the job you want. Is there is no secret trick to getting experience. Just be honest and think creatively. Your imagination and your integrity will be your key to success when you do not have the experienced “required” for a job.
Last but definitely not least, remember that often times, employers hire for personality over skill.
Just because the job description calls for 5-7 years of experience, and you only have 2, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t apply. There is such a great possibility that if you’re the perfect cultural fit for that position, you will be considered.
Don’t short-change yourself by sticking to the exact “requirements” on each job description. Break the rules a little.
Remember, employers want an employee who is engaged and invested in what they do, day in and day out. If you have one or two years less experience than what they call for, if you can make it up in your enthusiasm for the job, you may be the perfect candidate.
Tags: do you really need 5-7 years experience, experience on resume, resume tips, resume tricks
