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Clearing the Job Experience Hurdle

Updated: Dec 13


A person jumping joyfully on a mountain top with a scenic view of valleys and mountains under a clear blue sky.

Picture this. You have just graduated from college or have only a couple of years of experience in your chosen field. You are applying for jobs, and you find one that looks like a great fit. But when you scroll down to the experience section, you see that it requires five years of experience. If you have experienced this recently, then congratulations, you are a junior professional trying to overcome the hurdle of not having enough experience to get a good job.


Too Little Experience Dilemma


The catch twenty-two of you needing experience to get a job, yet you need a job to get experience is very real and very prevalent when looking for a job as a junior level professional. It can be maddening when you find a job at a company that connects with your passions and the duties match with the responsibilities that you have had in the past, but they overlook you because you don’t have enough experience. This happening repeatedly can drive even the most dedicated of job seekers insane with frustration.


Jumping Over the Hurdle


There is hope, however. Here are ways to jump over the experience hurdle. While it is easier to get a job with more experience, it is not impossible to get one with less experience. Here are a few major ways to succeed.


Networking is Key


Network, network, network. It may be cliche, but it definitely works. There are countless examples of professionals getting their next job through networking.  And there are plenty of ways to go about networking. Some examples include networking groups and events on Meetup, signing up for the Career Network Ministry Job Search groups and becoming a member at a professional association that relates to your chosen field.


Volunteering


As James Steele, the communications director at Career Network Ministry, said, “Volunteering is interning for adults.” Volunteering is a great way to gain professional experience and new skills. This is especially true for junior level professionals who need to gain more experience and new skills. While some employers look down on volunteer work, many see the value of gaining experience and skills through volunteering your time to a good cause. Obtaining a volunteer position is also easier because there is less of an interview process, so it is perfect for professionals with less experience to offer.


Conclusion


In all there are ways to get over the experience hurdle and succeed in getting a job as a junior level professional. Don’t give up. You got this.

Author


Amanda Libby, CNM Public Relations and Communications Coordinator

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