Let’s debunk a common myth right now, before we get started. Not every entry-level job dons the notorious “one to three years’ experience” requirement. Entry-level jobs do exist!
But what is considered entry-level?
In actuality, the definition is as fluid as you can imagine. It’s the immediate level of employment that you are eligible for based on your education, skills, knowledge, abilities, and internship experience. An entry-level position in the field of engineering and psychology will vary greatly in the breadth of aforementioned attributes.
How do I find one?
More entry-level positions are being offered to college graduates than ever. In fact, there’s some credible data out there to prove it, with CNN Business asserting that new grads are taking a substantial share of the market’s “good jobs.”
You can start preparing for those seemingly-elusive, no-experience opportunities by...
Using Handshake
Handshake exists as a collaboration with many college career services centers nationwide, with the sole purpose of connecting you with your next opportunity. If your college has one of these centers or career advisors, then it’s likely you’ve already got your own account. Not yet? Sign up here! (All it takes is a “.edu” email address.)
Once you’ve activated your account, we’ll ask you a few questions based on your major, interests, skills, etc. Be as detailed as possible, because we send all of our students custom-tailored notifications featuring exciting opportunities. You’ll also want to create a detailed personal profile — you might just catch the attention of one of your local recruiters!
With everything set, you can use Handshake to search thousands of opportunities, many requiring no work experience. You can easily spot one by looking at:
Required education: Fight the temptation to apply for a position requiring only a high school diploma. You’ll be considered overqualified, and it’s not kosher when building your career path. Find the no-experience jobs that require just a bachelor’s degree.
Years of experience: You might see anything ranging from one to three years, and that’s okay! If you do have the “intermediate Excel skills” or “CAD certification” requirements met, you should still consider applying, especially since that required experience might come with a higher pay or leverage for salary negotiations. Those one to three years’ worth of experience might also take your internship experience into account.
You can apply for any entry-level job on Handshake, assuming you qualify and meet the minimum requirements. The advantage of applying via Handshake? Only other students seeking entry level jobs can apply — keeping the competition leveled.
Finally...
Consider an internship before pursuing entry level work
In 2012, a survey revealed that 60% of interns were offered a job after their paid internship. Conversely, only 36% of non-interning college graduates received an offer.
If that’s a statistic you’d like to be part of, keep looking! Handshake has access to a slew of paid internships for every student.