ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING
Entry-level jobs are out there, and regardless of the economy, people are still working. Keep that in mind as you follow these keys to a successful job hunt.
The first key to employment is to shake off any hopeless feelings that you may be experiencing, especially if you've already been turned down a few times. Attitude really is everything, so changing the way you view this experience will raise your chances dramatically.
Looking at your situation from a practical standpoint, you may feel intimidated because of what you 'don't have', which is prior work experience and a long resume filled with your achievements. That's okay, because there isn't a resume in the world that can give you the most important qualities that a potential employer is looking for: positive attitude, determination, and the willingness to work. If you have these three foundational qualities, there is a good chance that you will be hired just as quickly, if not before, the candidate who may have years of experience under his belt.
Employers know that regardless of actual work experience, a positive attitude will cause an employee to grow into a valuable asset to the company. Even the candidate with prior experience will need to be trained in the new position because, regardless of experience, every company does things differently. Bottom line; focus on your strong work ethic, your upbeat, positive attitude, and your willingness to work. These things will cause you to rise above the other candidates in line for the same job opening.
UTILIZE YOUR RESOURCES
When looking for that first job, you may not know where to begin. If you are aware of some basic statistics, you will be better equipped as your search begins.
According to a recent United States survey of employers across America, 38% of all employees are hired through referrals (this figure raises to 55% for laborers) and less than 2% are hired through employment agencies. This is good news for you. One of the best ways to land your first job is to make a list of people that can help you in your job search. Parents of your friends, people from your church, your college professors, neighborhood friends for whom you've done work, aunts, uncles, etc. All of these people have their own careers and their own circle of influence. By recruiting them to refer you to a potential employer, you'll be ahead of the game. Either contact them personally, or consider writing them a letter or an email with your career goals. Most people older than you will be more than happy to help you with job leads. You may even find out about open positions that have not been advertised yet.
Another resource that you won't want to overlook is the Internet. New sites with job hunting resources hit the web almost daily. Take advantage of them. Sites like Linkedin, EmploymentCrossing, and your local newspaper website can give you useful leads and current job openings.
WHERE ARE THE ENTRY LEVEL JOBS?
There are a certain industries that traditionally have a higher percentage of entry-level jobs than others. Job-hunting in these industries will increase your chances of success.
Customer Service and Sales. If you have an outgoing, friendly personality and aren't afraid of talking to people, customer service or sales may be for you. Many sales positions require little or no prior experience because essentially, you are selling yourself and your personality to the potential employer.
Business Operations and Accounting Services. Offering nearly one quarter of all entry-level job opportunities, this industry includes administration assistant positions, receptionists, human resources, accounting, and financial planning positions.
Service Industries. According to recent statistics, fast food chains, convenience stores, and groceries have a high rate of unfilled positions. Some of the companies are increasing their starting pay rates in order to attract entry-level job applicants.
Medical and Health. There has been a 200% increase of entry-level positions in the health industry. Many require only a few months of outside training and pay quite well for first jobs. Phlebotomist, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Laboratory Technician, and Dental Assistant are all excellent entry-level jobs that require minimal schooling. Also, Pharmacy Technician openings are 'on the job training' positions which do not require any prior experience. A Pharmacy Tech works directly under the Pharmacist and is trained while working.
Computer and IT. Of course, with ever-increasing technology, this industry has continually experienced the most growth, by almost 20% every year. Entry-level jobs in this field include Information Systems (GIS), Computer Maintenance and Support, Web Design, and Computer Programming.
CONCLUSION
Finally, when seeking out an entry-level job, keep in mind that although you may not have years of full time job experience behind you, no one is completely 'without experience'. The phrase 'entry level' is being redefined in many industries, and potential employers do consider volunteer work, membership in college organizations, and internships to qualify as experience. When selling yourself to a potential employer, don't leave anything out. If nothing else, you may be hired at a higher starting rate of pay because of it.
The job market and unemployment rates will continue to fluctuate over the years. There are always waves of growth followed by periods that seem to have fewer opportunities than we would like. Remember, the key to survival in any economic climate is your own personal work ethic and your level of dedication to whatever you pursue.
