Tips for Finding and Landing an Entry-Level Job

by | Feb 18, 2022

 

Landing an entry-level job can be a challenge if you’re just starting your career. It can be challenging to know where to look and how to stand out from the pool of applicants. Follow these tips on finding and landing an entry-level job to succeed in your search.

 

What is an Entry Level Position?

Entry-level positions are often the launching pad for many vocations. These full or part-time jobs allow recent high school or college graduates to join the workforce for the first time. 

 

These roles don’t require much professional experience, allowing new employees to enter the workforce. Entry-level employment exposes you to a sector and helps you develop fundamental skills and knowledge.

 

 

 

How to Find Entry-Level Roles

When looking for an entry-level job, it’s essential to cast a wide net. You can use various methods to find job listings, including job fairs, job boards, social media, recruiters, and company websites. When 61% of entry-level roles require three years of experience, you need to know how to find the postings you’re qualified to apply for. 

 

Go to job fairs

Job fairs offer excellent opportunities to meet with prospective employers. A job fair is an event where hiring managers gather to discuss their company and seek talent. 

 

Schools, public community centers, and event halls can host career fairs. Virtual job fairs are also becoming more popular, allowing job seekers to participate from their computer or mobile device.

 

Use job search websites

Entry-level job sites are well-equipped to assist any recent graduate in finding employment. The process is simple with advanced search filters, networking tools, and proprietary matching algorithms. 

 

JobsFuel is an excellent resource for narrowing your search to a specific region or industry, allowing you to find a job that fits your needs and qualifications. 

 

Connect with recruiters

Recruiters can connect you to your ideal job. However, you have to make yourself visible to them first. Recruiters are always searching for new talent for their client company. You might think that recruiters aren’t interested in inexperienced workers entering the job market, but you may have the qualities they seek depending on your skills and education. 

 

Locating recruiters is simple. Googling recruiters in your area or searching for one at a specific company on LinkedIn are a couple of quick ways to get a contact who may be looking for new talent. There are recruiters in every state who work for recruiter agencies who can promise you a unique job opportunity fast.

 

 

How to Land Entry-Level Employment

Hiring managers are aware that individuals at the beginning of their career paths generally don’t have the professional experience required for the job posting. However, they search for specific characteristics in potential hires to see if you’re a good fit, such as your college degrees or training certifications. 

 

They also look for internships or volunteer experience and transferable talents like communication and customer service. Here are some things you can do to stand out from the crowd and get an entry-level job.

 

Work as an intern

Internships can turn into a job offer, even if only part-time. According to NACE’s 2020 Internship & Co-op Survey, 68% of college students who completed an internship and 42% of co-op students received a full-time employment offer from their employer after graduation.

 

You could also earn money as an intern. According to the same survey, paid internships at the bachelor’s degree level pay an average of $19.54 per hour. Although some companies don’t pay interns, many offer paid opportunities or an honorarium. 

 

Improve your social media profile

Employers and recruiters examine social media profiles as part of the hiring process, so job seekers need to keep their accounts up-to-date. Review everything you’ve ever put on your social media sites and delete anything that doesn’t reflect the professional image you want to convey.

 

While conducting searches for recruiters is beneficial, it is also prudent to make yourself easy to find. Ensure you create a professional-looking LinkedIn profile that’s current.  Highlight your qualifications in a way that’s specific to the job or industry you are interested in. 

 

Go to networking events

Make business networking events part of your job search and let others know you’re searching for an entry-level position. Another way to use LinkedIn is to connect with individuals who work at a company and see whether you have any shared connections. 

 

You may also want to ask one of the people you meet to have coffee with you to learn more about the firm and any available openings. Impress them with how thorough you are, and they might vouch for you.

 

Finding and Landing Your Dream Entry-Level Job is Doable

Entry-level jobs get your foot in the door and start building your career. But finding them can be challenging. However, you can make the process much easier with the proper steps. 

 

Use Jobsfuel.com’s powerful search engine and filters to find your next entry-level job. Our free job search resources can assist you in preparing for interviews by providing advice and suggestions. We’ll help you find your next job and give you the confidence to land that ideal position.