Get all the info you need to secure your dream entry level job!
What is an entry-level job?
Entry-level jobs are designed especially for younger applicants that do not have decades of workplace experience, so they can get a start in their desired career field. Entry level jobs in central London pays an average of £27000 gross salary x year (you can find the study here divided by UK region) and they often lead to promotion to higher-level positions once the applicant has had time to learn the ropes and prove themselves.
However, landing your dream entry-level job might not be as easy as you think, as there is a great deal of competition for the best and highest paying roles. With that in mind, to maximize your chances of landing the perfect entry-level job, there are some things you need to know. Read on to find out what they are.
Take stock of your own skills
First of all, before you begin your search you need to perform an honest assessment of yourself concerning the type of work you would like to do. Be sure to consider what you are good at, and enjoy, as well as things that you may need to work on and improve such as working in a team.
Create a killer resume
Initially, it will be your resume that gets you noticed. That means you will need to make sure yours stands out among the competition. Be sure you have the basics right like spelling and layout, and remember to tailor it to each job you are applying to for the best results.
Shadow someone already in the role
Another great tip when it comes to applying for entry-level jobs is to take the time to shadow someone already in the role before you apply. Indeed, by doing this you will gain all sorts of benefits including knowing precisely what your employee will be looking for. Not to mention that it shows real commitment to the role and is bound to impress.
Use a job search
To find entry-level jobs you want to apply for the best approach is to use an online job search. Be sure to use the right keywords including ‘junior, associate, recent graduate, as there are many ways that entry-level posts are described.
Ace your application
In addition to sending a CV, most entry-level jobs will require that you complete an application form or letter as well. Many people dread this part of the application process, but it is actually a great way to show the potential employer how well you suit the role, and that you have a genuine interest in the company.
Choose which posts to apply for carefully
Another important tip when applying for entry-level positions is that you need to be careful. This is because some positions are scams or designed to take advantage of those with little to no experience. Trust your gut here, as if it seems too good to be true it probably is.
Work on the employment process every day
Finding an entry-level job can feel a lot like a full-time job in itself. However, to maximize your chances of success you will need to work on tasks such as checking job alerts, and boards, as well as chasing up applications daily.
The importance of experience
It’s also worth noting that there are different types of jobs that come under the entry-level banner, and the skills and experience you will need for each of these also differ, as will the pay you can expect.
For example, the lowest paying of these will be the role where a degree is not required. While other entry-level jobs are directed at those looking to enter a profession and so require both an undergraduate degree and some previous low-level experience such as an internship.
Then there are entry-level jobs that still require a set amount of professional experience. These are jobs within a profession for those that can hit the ground running, and complete the job with little training, but are still not at manager or supervisor level. Such posts will likely be paid the highest of the three because they require experience of already being on the job.
How to get experience
Many people are confused when they discover that for higher-paying entry-level jobs they will need at least some experience. However, it makes perfect sense because by completing an internship, the candidate will get an insight into what their future career entails, and some experience of how things work on a day-to-day basis.
Of course, it used to be that internships were only available in person, but it is now entirely possible to complete a virtual internship online. An activity that will provide the experience you need to ensure you are considered for the best-paying entry-level jobs.
Indeed, the best thing about our virtual internships is that they are run in partnerships with UK companies, something that provides experience suited not only to your home country but the entire international job market as well. In fact, with a virtual internship, the world of entry-level recruitment really is your oyster, whichever position, and location you choose.
You can find our more about our virtual internship program here
