Landing your first job is one of those big, exciting milestones—like finally learning to ride a bike or acing a test you studied hard for. But let’s be real: It’s tough out there! That’s why we’re here to help you land a great gig without all the stress.
Whether you’re wondering how to make a resume for your first job, how to apply without experience, or how to crush your first interview, this guide has you covered. Think of it as your go-to playbook for navigating the job hunt with confidence.
Ready to turn “How do I get a first job?” into “I got my first job!”? Let’s go!
Why is it hard to land a first job?
Honestly, landing your first job can be time-consuming, stressful, and challenging.. There are a few big hurdles that can make the process feel like an uphill battle. But once you understand what’s working against you, you can start tackling these challenges head-on.
The experience paradox
So no one wants to hire you without experience. But how are you supposed to get experience if no one will give you a chance? This situation can feel discouraging, but there are ways to work around it—starting with redefining what “experience” really means.
“Everyone has experience—there's no such thing as ‘no experience,’” says Muse career coach Cassandra Spencer. “Experience can come from anything you've done—any project, community involvement, education, class, or certification. It can come from a personal or passion project, it can come from paid work or from volunteer experience.”
The key is to show employers how these experiences have prepared you to succeed in the specific role you’re applying for.
Competition among entry-level candidates
Entry-level roles usually attract tons of applicants, which means standing out is crucial. But how do you do that when everyone else has the same limited experience?
You might remember this trick from your college applications: It’s all about showcasing what makes you unique. Maybe it’s your enthusiasm, your ability to learn quickly, or a specific skill you’ve been honing. Employers aren’t just looking for experience; they’re looking for potential, especially in an entry-level role. Focus on what you can bring to the table—not what you’re missing.
Read this next: No Experience? 3 Ways to Show You're Right for the Job Anyway
Lack of guidance and connections
For many first-time job seekers, the biggest challenge isn’t just the competition—it’s not knowing where to start. Without a clear roadmap or a professional network, you might feel overwhelmed. Maybe you’re not sure how to make a resume for your first job or you’re unsure about how to find opportunities when you don’t have connections in your desired industry.
Luckily, there are plenty of resources and strategies to help you build your network and overcome the difficulties ahead, step by step.
What do employers look for in new hires?
While specific requirements may vary by role or industry, there are certain qualities that hiring managers consistently value. “Hiring managers are looking for people with strong collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving, adaptability, and communication skills, to name a few,” Spencer says.
These skills go beyond technical qualifications—they’re often referred to as “soft skills” and are crucial for thriving in a workplace environment. Employers want to know that you can work on a team, think on your feet when challenges arise, communicate your ideas clearly, and adapt to changing circumstances.
Employers don’t expect perfection from first-time job seekers, but they do look for candidates who show potential in these areas. Find ways to show how your experiences have prepared you to contribute meaningfully to a team.
How to get your first job: Your step-by-step guide
Take these actionable steps to make yourself stand out as a first-time job seeker.
1. Identify the right opportunities
Start by researching entry-level roles that align with your skills, interests, and goals. Check out job boards like The Muse (hi!) and don’t overlook smaller, local businesses—they’re often more open to first-time hires. Industries like retail, hospitality, and customer service are especially welcoming to beginners, offering great ways to build foundational skills.
Pro tip: When researching, read job descriptions closely to match your abilities and make note of keywords—they’ll come in handy when tailoring your resume and cover letter. Additionally, look for roles that emphasize training or growth opportunities—they’re often more open to candidates with little to no experience. (Here’s how to read a job description the right way.)
2. Build a strong resume (even without experience)
Wondering how to make a resume for your first job? Spencer says it’s all about “framing the experience that you do have to align with the types of roles that you're applying to.” Highlight transferable skills from school projects, volunteer work, internships, or even extracurricular activities, like time management and problem-solving.
Did you organize a community fundraiser? That’s event planning and communication. Did you lead a group project in class? That’s teamwork and leadership. For example, you can frame it like this: “Collaborated with a team of four classmates to deliver a group presentation, effectively communicating complex ideas and meeting tight deadlines.”
If it’s relevant to the role, don’t forget to mention any courses, certifications, interests, and even the languages you speak. And yes, you will need a resume for many roles—but it doesn’t have to be intimidating. Keep it clean, tailor it to each role you apply for, and proofread it carefully. Typos can make your first impression less professional.
Not sure where to start? These articles can help:
3. Write a compelling cover letter
Your cover letter is your chance to shine, even if you don’t have much experience. Focus on why you’re excited about the job, how your skills fit the role, and your willingness to learn. Address your lack of experience head-on but spin it into a positive—highlight your eagerness to grow and contribute.
Employers value attitude just as much as experience, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. A well-crafted cover letter can set you apart from other candidates and show employers why you’re worth taking a chance on.
4. Leverage networking and referrals
Networking might sound intimidating, but it’s one of the best ways to uncover job opportunities. “We all have a network—our friends, family, classmates, coworkers, professors, etc. are all people we know and are considered to be in our network,” Spencer says. She recommends reaching out to these valuable resources in person or over text, email, or phone, and being specific about what you’re looking for. “Don’t be afraid to ask for introductions or advice,” she says.
Next, use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the industries you’re interested in. Join groups, explore your alumni network, and don’t be shy about sending a polite message to someone whose career path inspires you.
Also, explore professional organizations, which many people find helpful. “Professional organizations and associations often have an extensive list of resources, networking opportunities, and so much more,” Spencer says.
5. Ace the interview
Interviews can feel intimidating, but preparation will help you stay calm and confident. Practice answering common questions about your strengths and weaknesses, and why you want the job (please, never say you need it for the money). Align the job description with your skills and how it can help you grow.
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses when talking about your achievements, even if they’re from school or volunteer experiences. Don’t forget to come up with a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer.
Remember, interviews aren’t just about your answers—they’re also about showing that you’re enthusiastic, professional, and willing to learn. So practice at home, put on a smile, and be your best self.
Read this next: 60+ Most Common Interview Questions and Answers
6. Consider alternative entry points
If you’re struggling to land a traditional job, think outside the box. Internships, apprenticeships, volunteering, or even gig work can help you build skills, expand your network, and gain the experience you need to put on your resume. These opportunities might not be your ultimate goal, but they’re valuable stepping stones to bigger roles.
Stay on top of your options: Browse these amazing open jobs and internship opportunities on The Muse—one of them might just be your perfect next step »
Bonus tips for first-time job seekers
Landing your first job is a journey, and as with any journey, the better prepared you are before you set out, the better. Here are some extra practical tips to keep you on track, motivated, and ahead of the curve.
Set realistic expectations
Getting your first job can be exciting, but it’s important to understand what entry-level roles typically look like. They often come with low starting wages and may require you to take on responsibilities that seem unrelated to your ultimate career goals.
For example, common entry-level tasks might include customer service, data entry, or administrative support. While these may not seem glamorous, they’re crucial for building foundational skills like communication, problem-solving, time management, and attention to detail—skills that will be valuable as you move into more advanced roles.
Research starting wages, common responsibilities, and work environments for the types of jobs and industries you’re targeting. Knowing what to expect can help you focus on long-term growth rather than immediate perfection and avoid feeling discouraged by setbacks.
Upskill and certify
If you’re worried about not having enough experience, building in-demand skills can set you apart from other first-time applicants. “One of my favorite starting points to add to and to create a more impactful resume is encouraging people to look into free or low-cost courses and certifications,” Spencer says.
Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or even YouTube tutorials can help you learn everything from basic Excel skills to coding or graphic design. You can also pursue certifications in your field of interest to show employers you're serious about developing professionally. These small steps can make a big difference when hiring managers are reviewing your application.
Stay persistent
Rejection is part of the job search process, especially when you’re just starting out. It’s easy to feel discouraged, but there are strategies to help you stay motivated. Spencer shares three great ways to stay motivated:
- Track your job search. “Keep track of what companies and job titles you're applying to, in addition to other information such as where/how you learned about the job and if you have any network connections to that company,” she says. “It’s a great way to monitor progress and assess where you may need to make adjustments.” For example, if you notice you’re only applying to large companies and getting rejections, it might be time to explore smaller or mid-size businesses.
- Reflect on your wins. “One of my clients recently faced a few rejections, and while they were feeling really disappointed, looking back at the wins of their job search was a huge help and a huge motivating factor,” Spencer says. Celebrate your small victories—like landing an interview, receiving positive feedback, or even just submitting a strong application. These wins remind you that you’re making progress, even when it doesn’t feel like it.
- Find ways to support your job search. Support and motivation can come from various avenues. Whether it’s working with a career coach, setting aside dedicated job search time, or teaming up with a friend as an accountability partner, having a support system can make the process feel less overwhelming.
Common mistakes to avoid
According to Spencer, these are the biggest mistakes job seekers make:
- Relying too much on cold applications. She says that cold applications have a notoriously low success rate—only about 2% actually lead to interviews.
- Thinking you don’t have a network. Your network isn’t just professionals with flashy job titles. It’s friends, family, classmates, professors, and anyone else you know. Start there, then focus on building connections and expanding your network.
“Networking is important at every stage of your career and for every successful job search,” Spencer says. Spend time reaching out to people in your desired field, attending industry events, or joining professional groups.
By setting realistic expectations, upskilling, staying persistent, and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to landing that first job. Remember, every step you take brings you closer to your goal—so keep going.
FAQs
Do you need a resume for your first job?
Yes, most employers will expect you to submit a resume, even for entry-level positions. If you don’t have much work experience, focus on highlighting transferable skills, volunteer work, extracurricular activities, and relevant coursework. Use a simple, clean format, and be sure to tailor your resume to the job you're applying for.
How do I apply for my first job with no experience?
Even without formal work experience, you can still create a compelling application by focusing on transferable skills and relevant activities. Highlight volunteer work, internships, school projects, or leadership roles in clubs. Write a strong cover letter explaining your enthusiasm for the role and willingness to learn, and try to build connections through networking to improve your chances.
What are some good first-time jobs?
Good first-time jobs typically include roles that don’t require prior work experience but still help you develop valuable skills. Common options include working as a retail sales associate, food service worker (such as a cashier, server, or barista), lifeguard, or camp counselor. Babysitting, pet sitting, and freelance opportunities like tutoring are also great choices. Additionally, administrative assistant or receptionist positions, as well as internships or apprenticeships in areas of interest, can provide early exposure to specific industries.
How long does it typically take to get a first job?
The time it takes to land your first job can vary depending on factors like the job market, your location, and the industry you’re targeting. On average, it may take a few weeks to a few months. Stay proactive by applying to multiple opportunities, following up with employers, and seeking feedback to improve your applications. Patience and persistence are key!
Leonardo Capita contributed to the latest version of this article.