There’s actually a lot of ways to go around this.
We all know the stereotype of interns just making coffees for everyone else but - it’s not true. As an intern / trainee, you’ll be able to see what others do and potentially what you’ll be doing once you secure the job. Although it is unpaid, it goes to show how much more you are dedicated to gain experience – always a plus for employers.
Many job boards will have vacancies for internships / traineeships, however, cold calling regarding traineeships is a perfect way to put yourself out there and get noticed by employers. Who wouldn’t want to hire someone for free?
Volunteering and traineeships are fairly similar with the slight difference in that volunteering is easier to secure. You’ll profit from the skills and contacts you gain allowing you to network and find possible vacancies in your field.
I’d recommend volunteering in an area relevant to your dream career however, if there’s nothing out there, you’ll still gain confidence and skills allowing you to enhance your CV and show your dedication.
I’ve mentioned networking before but I can’t stress the importance of it! Not only keeping in contact with teachers from university or friends who work in certain sectors, but making accounts on social media platforms and connecting with companies and individuals.
Someone that puts themselves out there and tries to be seen is more likely to get hired than someone who doesn’t.
Now we’re not telling you to scrap your goals and give up on your dream, but if you’re applying for a role way out of your skillset, you’re just wasting your time. For example, if you’re applying for a general manager role of Matalan with no experience whatsoever, is it really a surprise you’re not being considered? We all have to start somewhere, so maybe start by applying for a sales assistant at first and work your way up to supervisor, assistant manager and eventually store manager!
Basically, apply for entry-level jobs or junior roles and break into the industry!