If you clicked on this link, I could safely assume you are a student eager to find help regarding this subject of work experience.
Perhaps, you have doubted your chances of getting a good job after school because you are inexperienced in your field, and work experience has become a basic requirement for major organisations today.
Take a deep breath; you will be just fine.
Today's job descriptions are littered with startling requirements of work experience, and while some of those appear inconsiderate, you can't entirely fault employers.
No organisation wants to employ a liability and pay their hard-earned money for no value.
On the other hand, an individual with work experience has more exposure, self-confidence and competence than someone with zero experience.
But if you reside in Nigeria. LOL!
Sorry, I had to laugh out loud there because you live in a country where the educational system is not specifically designed to allow you to gather work experience as you study.
There are ways to go about these things, and you are about to find how. Keep reading.
1. Apply for Internships
Internships have always been one of the easiest ways to acquire work experience as a student, not only for students but for recent graduates. Internships give you first-hand experience of what working may seem like– the orientation and skills that come with it.
Another piece of good news.
Upfolio is doing something huge at the moment.
You can apply to the Upfolio Internship Program(UIP). A program designed to help you gain the necessary skills needed to advance your career and get paid while at it.
Some employers leverage the desperation of interns and have them work for free with the sole promise of work experience. This internship is not one of such. You can read this post to learn more about the program or join the waitlist now.
Bear in mind that internship opportunities are not as common as regular job adverts, so be extra alert if that's what you want.
2. Get a Part-time Remote Job
As a student, you need to have enough time for your studies. We know, and that’s why we advise you to opt for remote, part-time jobs.
This kind of job allows you to pay the necessary attention to your study and work. Regardless, if there are vacations, short breaks or strikes, you can give your job even more attention.
Your part-time job doesn't need to be remote. It all depends on your field. But remote work will always do the magic and give you more freedom as a student. The only caveat here is that you would have to be pretty good at multitasking.
3. Start Personal Projects
This is a great option for you if you find it tricky to get an internship or a remote job. You can start something on your own. This also depends on your field.
If you are an aspiring UI/UX designer or a graphic designer, you can create designs on your own and add them to your portfolio. For most creative fields like this, the employer would almost always ask to see what you've done before.
Sharing portfolio samples of your projects is a good way to "boycott" this process.
4. Volunteer
Volunteering is another easy way to fast track yourself into the work field while still a student. When you network with people, you are often exposed to opportunities to volunteer yourself and build the necessary skill.
Upfolio is also a great place to volunteer, so look out for future openings here.
You can also volunteer for your family and friends or with startups that may require your expertise. Just ensure you get the work experience you seek and not waste your time.
A little here and a little there, and you have some work experience to include in your resume.
Intentionality and the right vision of your desired future should propel you to come out of your comfort zone and do something today.
We are always here for you, and as a team, we are excited about your future already.
Kisses😘
Chisom from UPFOLIO.
