5 Ways to Compensate for a Lack of Paid Professional Experience

Don’t let lack of recent paid professional experience keep you from your dream job.  There are at least five ways that you can gain skills and experience necessary for your target career.  You may discover that you already have experience that proves that you are qualified for the job. 

1.) Professional Certifications

If you are looking for something to distinguish you as an expert, investigate professional certifications relevant to your industry and occupation.  The rigors of certification programs vary greatly.  Some require self-study and an exam, while others require the candidate to complete coursework.  The best way to learn about these opportunities is to perform a search using keywords based on your target industry and career along with the words, “professional certification.”

2.) Internships

Do you want to break into a new industry?   Consider an unpaid internship.   Some companies have formal intern programs. If a company does not have a formal intern program, inquire anyway.  Many companies would be willing to take on an intern on a short-term basis.  Even if you are only able to intern for a week or two, through job shadowing and by interacting with the staff, you will gain considerable knowledge and insight.  Remember to include this on your resume in either an “additional experience” or “intern program” section on your resume.

3.) Volunteering

Many candidates use time off work, such as breaks between college terms or while taking a break to raise children, to volunteer for non-profit organizations.  It is an excellent way to gain experience performing tasks related to a candidate’s target job.  Volunteers also have the chance to hone leadership and organizational skills.  Volunteer experience can be shown on a resume in a category called, “community leadership” or “volunteer experience.”

4.) Coursework

If you are looking to shift to a new occupation but are lacking specialized skills or knowledge.   Take courses to fortify your skillset.  You may find courses online, at local trade schools, colleges, or through professional associations.  When you complete your courses, you can add them to a section on your resume labeled, “professional development.”

5.) Blogging

Even if you are not a leading authority on a subject related to your target job, you are still able to author a blog on that subject.   Conduct research and share your comments based on what you have learned.  Share posts and studies completed by others (giving the researcher and author credit).  You can become an aggregator of specialized information in your field.  Be sure to mention your blog on your resume.  You may include the URL in your contact information section at the top of your resume.

These are just five examples of how you can demonstrate your qualifications for your dream job.  Additionally, you may want to update your resume to explore accomplishments within your academic and work history to be sure you have included all of your top selling points. If you are struggling with a career transition, contact me.  We help candidates to succeed at all stages of their careers.