No one is born with work experience and it can be incredibly hard to get. When applying for a job everyone is eager to out forward the work they have done prior, but what if you haven’t?
It’s a bit of a catch 22 when it comes to work experience with many companies wanting people to have work experience in order to gain more work experience. You have to start someone so when you have little to no work experience you really need to put your best characteristics forward.
You are more than the work you have completed previously as your other skills and personality are equally important when it comes to working in any form as interactions with employees and clients is an important cog in the business mechanism.
Here are a few tips to help you when you’re looking for your first job in the legal system.
- Skills first
Many people put their skills towards the end of their resumes having listed their education and work experience first. However, there is no reason you shouldn’t be putting your skills at the top! The skills you possess are why you should be given the job so putting them right in the eyes of the recruiter is important, especially if you don’t have a lot else to show.
- Use the relevant terminology
When going for a job you should have some knowledge, through previous research and interest, about the profession and what it involves. Include a few key words that relate to your role to show that you are not only interested but also have a good understanding of what it entails.
- Include relevant experience
Now, understandably, you may not have any work experience but there is a good chance that you have done some volunteer or community work or held a leadership position in sport or at school that would be of value to your employer.
Highlight your achievements so that the potential employer can get a better idea of who you are and the value you could bring to their firm.
- Be clear and concise in your goals
Highlight exactly why you want to work for the given firm and emphasise your goals and aspirations within the industry. Show them that you are driven and determined and really hone in on what you will give to the business.
Being passionate about any job is going to give you an edge over other candidates and outlines a desire to learn and develop in the role as well.