Tips That Will Help You Get Hired if You're an Industry Outsider

Hi everyone!

I decided to write this blog post for all those of you who want to get a job in a specific industry but don't have work experience. I am sure you have been wondering if you can still apply for a job if you don’t have enough experience. The answer is yes! Here’s why.

Looking back at my career path (which is not that long), I can say that life is full of surprises, and you never know where the job search takes you.?

I didn’t have an impressive record of finance internships when I applied for a position at StoneX Group Inc. As a sociology student, I was unsure if my unfamiliarity with the industry would hold back my ability to keep up with its fast-paced sector. But did the fact that I didn’t know much about finance exclude me from the race? No. Why? Because however, it may sound, I decided to take a leap of faith and open myself up to new opportunities, regardless of the outcome.?

If you’re like me and do not know where to start your journey, here’re some tips that hopefully will help you to take the next step in your career!

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Tip #1: Demonstrate your interest

Not having a relevant background does not mean you have to write off finance (or any other sector) as a career. You can still apply for many roles and get into the industry. You are probably more qualified than you give yourself credit for! Just show the employer your sincere interest in the sector, the company, and the role you are applying for. Are you aware of the latest trends or key issues in the industry? Maybe something in your personal experience has sparked your interest in the chosen field?

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Tip #2: Show your willingness to learn

Companies want to hire skilled workers. However, they also prioritize hiring for a cultural fit. When candidates show that they’re willing to learn, develop new skills, and adapt to emerging changes, they become a good long-term investment for the company. Demonstrating that you are quick to pick up new skills and techniques will let employers see your growth potential. If you are an industry outsider, you can always redress the situation by taking relevant courses with an emphasis on finance or business.

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Tip #3: Don’t be afraid of competition

For some reason, you think other candidates are much more qualified and experienced than you and that you shouldn’t even try to apply. We often feel worthless when comparing ourselves to others and self-impose the idea that we are more likely to fail. As such, we tend to avoid situations in which we have to encounter competition. But why don’t you assume the best instead of assuming the worst?

If you feel hesitant in applying, my advice would be to write down everything you have to offer which makes you a good fit for the role, your strengths and your skills. Always remind yourself of all you have achieved in your studies/career. By doing so, you are projecting a more positive perception of yourself and boosting your self-confidence.?

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Tip #4: It’s ok to fail

When you get rejected from a job, you immediately experience anger, sadness, and hopelessness. You’ve put a lot of effort into your application and taken the rejection personally. In this case, the advice is simple: accept the failure and move on.

There are thousands of reasons why you might not get the job you are applying for. Reflect on what happened, ask for detailed feedback, and build a personal development plan. Think about what you can do to improve your performance and set objectives.?