Second Post

I don’t have the right experience, is there anything I can do?


The obvious answer to this question is, of course, go and get it. If you need experience of software packages, for example, you could take evening classes. If, however, you are in lack of working experience in a particular field, the problem becomes more problematic.

Let’s assume you are working five days a week but want to change career. How can you get the experience required if you are busy during the day. Well, hard as it may be to believe, not every position requires exact experience and if you are changing careers there is a chance you will have to start from the bottom of the ladder. If this is the case, do your research carefully. Learn all there is to know about the profession you want to become involved in, especially the skills you will have to achieve, before making any applications. The more you know about your new field, the more likely you are to impress an employer.

Get the experience!

Voluntary work
There are certain jobs, especially in the media, where you can gain experience through voluntary work. Sure, it’s a big commitment to slave away all day then offer your assistance free of charge in the evening but such action could prove invaluable. Look for organisations that enlist volunteers, get in touch and explain your needs. Employers recognise commitment when they see it so any voluntary position will do wonders for your CV.

In your current place of work
If this is not an option but you still feel you need to gain experience, think about your present place of work. Would it be worthwhile asking to change departments to get that experience? There is a good chance that your boss will be happy to listen to your aspirations and seek to aid you – after all it is in his/her interests to keep you on board.

Know yourself well
A radical career change will in all probability render this last piece if advice worthless. In this case, is there anything at all from your previous experience (working or otherwise) that may be applicable? Note down everything that may be of use – it might just be enough to get you through that interview.

Transferable skills
Also extremely important are your transferable skills. Maybe you have already exercised the skills you need, but in a different environment. In any case, if you are a little short on experience you must make the most of your transferable skills. These include: Communication, IT, Foreign languages, Organisation, Management, Customer Care, Numeracy and Research. For more details you should have a look at the section on Transferable Skills in these advice pages.