Entering the job market for the first time can feel overwhelming, especially when you see job listings asking for “2+ years of experience” for an entry-level role.
But here’s the truth: everyone starts somewhere. With the right mindset and strategy, you can make yourself stand out even without years of professional experience.
Here’s a set of practical tips to help you get that first job and start building the career you want.
1. Focus on skills instead of experience
Employers know juniors may not have deep experience, but they’re looking for potential. Focus your CV and interviews on:
- Technical or job-related skills you’ve learned in school, courses, or internships.
- Soft skills like communication, adaptability, and teamwork.
- Projects (even personal or academic ones) that demonstrate initiative and applied learning.
Tip: Create a portfolio or GitHub (if you’re in tech), or a visual showcase (if you’re in design or marketing) to prove what you can do.
2. Tailor every application
Don’t mass-send your resume. Instead:
- Customize your cover letter to match the company’s tone and values.
- Edit your resume to highlight the most relevant experiences for each job.
- Use keywords from the job posting to pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Tip: Keep a template of your resume and cover letter, but create a separate version for each job with at least 2–3 specific adjustments.
3. Network before you need to
Many junior roles aren’t posted online, or they get flooded with applicants. That’s where networking helps:
- Attend industry events, conferences, or online webinars.
- Connect with alumni, mentors, or professionals on LinkedIn.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for informational interviews, because most people enjoy sharing their career advice.
Tip: Message 3–5 people a week with a short, polite note asking for insights. Relationships lead to referrals, not cold asks.
4. Practice interviews
Interviewing is a skill. Like any skill, you need to practice:
- Prepare answers to common questions (“Tell me about yourself”, “Why this company?”, “What are your strengths?”).
- Be ready to explain your education, side projects, and problem-solving abilities.
- Practice with a friend, a mentor, or record yourself on video.
💡 Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and confidently.
5. Stay resilient
Rejections are part of the process. Even the most successful professionals got at least one rejection.
- Apply consistently, but also take care of your mental health.
- Track your applications so you can follow up and improve your strategy.
- Keep learning through online courses or part-time freelance gigs while you search.
Tip: Set a weekly job search routine and treat it like a job in itself.
Final Thoughts
Getting your first job is a milestone, not a race. Instead of comparing yourself to others, build your own foundation with curiosity, effort, and self-belief.
At DevHub, we’re always looking for passionate people. We regularly open junior and entry-level roles across various teams as we continue to grow. Follow us on social media to stay connected and be the first to hear about new opportunities.
