How to boost your job or internship application with no relevant work experience

By Shirley Sayer, Careers Manager

If your career goal is to secure a graduate opportunity or an internship in 2023, you might fear a lack of relevant work experience on your CV. The good news is, with the right approach, you have every chance to submit strong applications going forward.

It's time to think out of the box

The pandemic prevented students from getting the same work experience and insight opportunities that were available in the past. Graduate employers are keenly aware of this, and recruiters are adopting a more flexible approach to applications to accommodate the pandemic’s effects on students’ experience. Now, more than ever, it’s about thinking outside the box and highlighting your transferable skills—from your studies, part-time jobs, volunteering, side hustles and hobbies.

Reflect on your experiences

Once you’ve identified the specific competencies your target employer is looking for, reflect on your experiences across all aspects of your life and the transferable skills you’ve gained from them. Then, select those activities that demonstrate you’re a ‘match’ for the job in terms of your experience and motivation. Remember, it’s not always the candidate with the most directly relevant experience that gets the job. It's often more about potential and showing your passion for the role and organisation you’re applying to.

That part-time job is relevant

Sheena McBeth, our Internship Hub Manager, advises:

‘Working in retail or a pub might not initially seem relevant to an internship in law or marketing, but when you break it down into transferable skills, they are relevant. Both involve working with people, listening to customer requirements, problem-solving, etc. I often hear students say, “I didn’t include my retail job as it didn’t seem relevant,” but this underplays the importance of all experiences. Everything a student does from part-time work, volunteering, clubs and societies makes them the person they are, and employers are interested in hiring well-rounded individuals who can identify what they are good at.’

Get involved and show your interest

Recruiters are looking for someone who will ‘fit’ the organisation’s culture. Adding a link to a blog, portfolio or your LinkedIn profile can tell a recruiter something about you and make an impact. Extra-curricular activities can be a great way to show your interest in a particular sector. For example, if you’re aiming to break into impact investing, why not join GUTI (Glasgow University Trading and Investment Club) or GU4SDG (Sustainable Development Goals)? Use the SRC’s handy clubs and societies search tool for ideas.

Becoming a student member of a professional body can open doors to different opportunities. For example, The Law Society of Scotland offers student associates the chance to volunteer, network and find a mentor. Find the professional body associated with your target area of work and look for ways to boost your CV.

For more ideas, check out ‘How to get a job with no experience ’ from Prospects, and we wish you all the best with your applications.