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What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

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Hey everyone,

So long story short… A few years ago I completed my Diploma in IT then got stuck in my old job mainly due to covid. Things did pick up at the end of 2021 but I was at a bit of a crossroads with whether I was going to go on with it or not. Fast forward and I’ve since done my ITIL cert as well and I’m currently going for Ofice 365 and Azura Fundamentals plus I’m doing a coding project. Having said all that though I still don’t have any real IT-related work experience. My point is Should I try to for some to boost my chances? Or will the fact I have already been working and with everything else I’m doing be enough?

Thank you.

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[birdmantd]

Reply To: What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

In reply to What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

When you apply for the job, accentuate what your work experience is currently and has been previously. What education you have related to the job and its requirements for starters. Don’t get too detailed in why or how you have not accomplished any work/experience goals, but be honest about it if/when asked.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 1 month ago by birdmantd.
• This reply was modified 1 year, 1 month ago by birdmantd.

Maximizing Entry-Level IT Job Opportunities

In reply to What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

It’s great to see your dedication to upgrading your IT skills, especially with certifications like ITIL, Office 365, and Azure Fundamentals, along with your coding project. While gaining work experience can be valuable, your efforts to enhance your knowledge and certifications are definitely substantial. To bolster your chances, you could consider seeking internships, volunteering on IT projects, or contributing to open-source initiatives.

Seeking IT Work Experience: A Key Step in Building a Successful Career

In reply to What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

Certainly, gaining practical IT-related work experience would significantly enhance your chances in the field. While your certifications and ongoing education are valuable, real-world experience provides a different level of expertise and understanding. It not only hones your technical skills but also exposes you to various challenges and problem-solving scenarios that are crucial in IT roles. Consider seeking internships, part-time positions, or volunteer opportunities in IT-related projects to complement your academic achievements. This hands-on experience will make your resume more compelling to potential employers and showcase your ability to apply your knowledge in real-world situations, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

Navigating the Entry-Level IT Landscape: Balancing Credentials

In reply to What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

It’s great to see your proactive approach in upskilling with ITIL certification, pursuing Office 365 and Azure Fundamentals, and engaging in a coding project. These endeavors certainly demonstrate your commitment to the field. However, gaining practical experience can undoubtedly enhance your prospects. Consider seeking internships, volunteer opportunities, or even freelance projects to bridge the gap between your academic achievements and real-world application. This hands-on experience can provide valuable insights, build a network, and make your resume stand out. It’s all about striking the right balance between qualifications and practical know-how to maximize your chances in the competitive entry-level IT job market. Best of luck!

[kees_b]

Reply To: What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

In reply to What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

Given your diverse certifications and ongoing projects, gaining practical IT experience would undoubtedly enhance your profile. Pursuing opportunities to apply your skills, perhaps through internships or part-time roles, will not only boost your chances but also complement your existing qualifications.

Note: promotional link removed by moderator.

• This reply was modified 1 year ago by kees_b.

What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

In reply to What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

Gaining experience before applying for entry-level jobs is crucial to stand out in the job market. Here are some strategies to build experience:

Internships or Volunteering: Look for internships or volunteer opportunities in your field of interest. This hands-on experience can provide valuable skills and insights.

Freelance or Side Projects: Start small projects or freelance work related to your desired field. It could be building websites, writing articles, designing graphics, etc. These projects can serve as a portfolio.

Online Courses and Certifications: Enroll in online courses or certification programs relevant to the job you’re targeting. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning offer various courses.

Networking: Attend industry events, workshops, and seminars. Networking can help you connect with professionals, gain insights, and possibly find mentors.

Personal Projects and Blogging: Start a blog or work on personal projects related to your field. Document your progress, challenges, and solutions. This can demonstrate your skills and dedication.

Part-time Jobs: Even unrelated part-time jobs can provide transferable skills like teamwork, time management, and customer service.

Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, work samples, and achievements. A strong portfolio can impress potential employers.

Explore Open Source Projects: Contribute to open-source projects relevant to your field. This not only builds experience but also demonstrates your commitment to collaborative work.

Seek Mentorship: Find a mentor in your desired industry. Their guidance and advice can be invaluable in understanding the industry landscape and gaining insights.

Research and Stay Updated: Continuously research industry trends, technologies, and best practices. Stay updated with the latest developments to be competitive in the job market.

Combining these strategies can help you gain valuable experience, develop skills, and make you a more attractive candidate when applying for entry-level positions.

[kees_b]

Reply To: What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

In reply to What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

To gain experience before applying for entry-level jobs, consider internships, volunteer work, or freelancing in your field. Networking and informational interviews also offer valuable insights.

• This reply was modified 1 year ago by kees_b.

Reply To: What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

In reply to What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

While your formal education and certifications are valuable, having relevant work experience in IT can significantly enhance your job prospects and make you a more competitive candidate. Internships, volunteer work, or freelance projects can provide valuable hands-on experience and demonstrate your practical skills to potential employers.

Here are some reasons why seeking IT-related work experience is beneficial:

Develop Practical Skills: Working in IT exposes you to real-world scenarios, allowing you to apply your theoretical knowledge and gain hands-on experience in troubleshooting, problem-solving, and using specific IT tools and technologies.

Build Industry Connections: Working alongside experienced IT professionals can provide you with valuable mentorship and networking opportunities. You can learn from their insights and expand your professional network, which can be instrumental in future job searches.

Validate Your Skills: Demonstrating practical IT experience on your resume and during interviews can showcase your ability to apply your skills in a real-world setting. This can set you apart from candidates who only have theoretical knowledge.

Gain Confidence: Gaining firsthand experience in IT can boost your confidence and self-assurance in your abilities. This can make you a more assertive and persuasive candidate during job interviews.

While your current qualifications and self-learning efforts are commendable, seeking IT-related work experience can significantly enhance your career trajectory. Consider pursuing internships, volunteer opportunities, or freelance projects that align with your interests and skills in IT. These experiences will provide valuable practical skills, industry connections, and a chance to validate your abilities in the eyes of potential employers.

[benstock2244]

Reply To: What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

In reply to What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

Gaining experience before applying for entry-level jobs is a great way to enhance your resume and increase your chances of landing a position. Here are some strategies to gain relevant experience:

Internships:
Look for internships in your field of interest. Internships provide hands-on experience, exposure to industry practices, and the opportunity to build a network.

Volunteer Work:
Volunteer for projects or organizations related to your desired field. This not only demonstrates your commitment but also allows you to acquire practical skills.

Freelancing:
Offer your services as a freelancer or take on freelance projects. This can help you build a portfolio and showcase your skills to potential employers.

Networking:
Attend industry events, seminars, and workshops. Networking allows you to connect with professionals in your field, gain insights, and potentially discover opportunities for gaining experience.

Online Courses and Certifications:
Take relevant online courses or certifications to enhance your knowledge and skills. Many platforms offer courses on specific tools, software, or industry practices.

Personal Projects:
Undertake personal projects that align with your career goals. This could include building a portfolio, developing a website, or creating a sample project that showcases your abilities.

Part-Time Jobs:
Seek part-time jobs or temporary positions that are related to your field. Even if they are not directly in your desired role, they can still provide relevant experience and exposure.

Skill Development:
Focus on developing specific skills that are in demand in your industry. This could include mastering software, learning a new programming language, or acquiring certification in a relevant field.

Informational Interviews:
Conduct informational interviews with professionals in your target industry. Learn about their experiences, seek advice, and express your willingness to gain experience.

Join Professional Organizations:
Become a member of professional organizations related to your field. This can open doors to networking events, conferences, and other opportunities for gaining experience.

Create a Personal Brand:
Establish an online presence through platforms like LinkedIn. Share your knowledge, connect with professionals, and engage in industry discussions to showcase your passion and expertise.

Seek Mentorship:
Look for a mentor who can guide you in your career journey.

• This reply was modified 10 months, 2 weeks ago by benstock2244.

Reply To: What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

In reply to What can I do to gain some experience before applying for entry level jobs?

Hi jacklaverty94,

It’s great that you’ve taken steps to enhance your skills with certifications like ITIL, Office 365, Azure Fundamentals, and engaging in a coding project. While having a solid educational background and certifications is beneficial, gaining practical experience can significantly boost your chances when applying for entry-level IT jobs. Here are some suggestions to gain relevant experience:

Internships or Volunteer Work:

Look for internships or volunteer opportunities in your area. Many organizations, including non-profits, may be in need of IT support, and volunteering is a great way to gain hands-on experience.
Freelance Projects:

Offer your skills on freelancing platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. This allows you to work on real projects, build a portfolio, and interact with clients.
Open Source Contributions:

Contribute to open-source projects on platforms like GitHub. This not only provides practical coding experience but also allows you to collaborate with other developers and showcase your work publicly.
Networking:

Attend local or virtual IT events, meetups, or conferences. Networking can help you connect with professionals in the industry, providing insights and potential opportunities.
Create a Portfolio:

Build a portfolio showcasing your coding projects, certifications, and any practical work you’ve done. This can be shared with potential employers to demonstrate your skills.
Online Platforms:

Explore online platforms that offer remote work or projects. Websites like Remote OK, We Work Remotely, or even LinkedIn can be sources of remote opportunities.
Part-Time or Contract Work:

Look for part-time or contract IT roles. Some companies might be open to hiring on a flexible basis, allowing you to gain experience while maintaining your current job.
Professional Networking:

Leverage professional networking sites like LinkedIn to connect with IT professionals in your area of interest. Join relevant groups and participate in discussions.
Showcase Soft Skills:

Highlight soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving on your resume. These skills are crucial in the workplace and can make you stand out.
Remember, a combination of education, certifications, and practical experience can be a powerful combination. Employers often value candidates who can demonstrate both knowledge and the ability to apply it in real-world scenarios. Good luck with your endeavors!

[Author]

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