Robert writes:
How, if possible, can I with a nonexistent (besides work done without pay) work history, but some college, along with some time spent not working, successfully complete an employment application? Any suggestions?
Be mindful that I have no criminal background. Thank you for your time.
The Career Doctor responds:
I am on a big marketing kick right now because a job-seeker has to have some basic marketing skills in order to best showcase his/her abilities.
Let me stress again to you doubters out there that applying some general marketing principles to job-hunting does NOT mean lying or stretching the truth. I think of marketing in job-hunting — polishing the resume, developing better interview answers, researching prospective employers, developing an effective elevator speech, networking — in the same vein as someone selling their house spends a little time and effort on increasing its curb appeal.
For example, in your case you need to stop downplaying your volunteering experience. Volunteer work counts as work experience! And for you students, so too does work-study, class projects, and part-time work.
Your challenge is to pull relevant accomplishments and skills from your volunteering and college classes that fit to the requirements of the jobs you seek. You may need to gain additional training or experience, and you will need to have an explanation of the gaps spent not working.
In terms of a traditional job application, complete it as best you can, marking “will explain in interview” in areas where you have gaps. Whenever possible, attach your resume to any employment application.
A great new tool for all job-seekers — to help you take your career to the next level — is a free career branding tutorial that is now available on Quintessential Careers.
Finally, for help with your job application, please go to: A Job-Seeker’s Guide to Successfully Completing Job Applications.
