One of the most difficult things about applying for any position is the expectation that you will have experience. For new graduates, the age-old question is: How do I get experience if the job first requires someone to have experience?

Not having experience doesn’t mean you can’t present yourself well in getting that all important first interview and in turn, that ideal first position.

Never underestimate your experience

When preparing your CV, do not undersell where you have experience. For example, consider the internships/work experience you have been involved with; tech projects you worked on with teams at university; and even the part time casual jobs you have done during your studies that have helped build your people skills and confidence. All of these add to your overall experience.

When applying for your first position, make sure the positions you apply for are within your scope of capability. In many cases, the ideal candidate for these types of positions is someone that shows a strong willingness to learn, has shared values, and is a team player. Addressing these in your CV as well in the initial interview may just be what makes you stand out from the other candidates.

How to build your experience portfolio during your studies

The earlier you start during your studies, the better placed you are. Read on to find out how to get a job at a tech company with minimal experience.

• Get some tech work experience

Taking the initiative to find work experience as an intern or through volunteering can be valuable. Whether it’s for just a few weeks or across a semester or longer, the experience you will gain will be invaluable. Not only does this provide you with experience to share, but hopefully a solid referee.

• Take specialised tech subjects

Keep a close watch on the specific skill sets those prospective employers are looking for in their job ads. You could choose to take up these areas of studies as a part of your tech degree, or if not provided, do these as an additional online/face to face course which will look great on your CV.

• Become a part of a Tech project

As a part of your tech studies, you and your fellow students are likely to be involved in team assignments or projects. These projects alone could demonstrate how you work as a part of a team on a tech-related project. Make sure that you capture the project activity and outcome within your CV.

Taking this one step further, you might want to take on a tech project outside of your studies to demonstrate that you are proactive, tech-savvy and driven to achieve. It also could make for a great tech story to share in your first interview.

• Develop your networks

It’s never too early to develop your online networks. For example, you could create a LinkedIn profile and follow the tech-led companies and individuals that inspire you. In this way you are gathering tech knowledge, demonstrating initiative, and building contacts that may help you to find a job in the future.

The right person for the job goes further than having experience

A person could have amazing experience but lack the soft skills that make them right for the job. By soft skills, we refer to a person’s fit for the position.

Often, the soft skills that are important to a prospective employer are outlined in the job ad. It’s important to address these specific soft skills if you can as well as outlining others that are your strengths. These may include demonstrating that you are:

• A good communicator: The ability to communicate well with your colleagues, supervisor, manager, and clients.
• Able to analyse and research: These skills help you assess a situation, collect the necessary data, and work toward a solution to a problem.
• A team player: Teamwork is an essential skill for any tech position. It's important to highlight that you can work well with others.

It’s never too early or too late to start

Taking the initiative now to develop your skill sets (both tech and non-tech) will position you well when you are ready to enter the job market. If you are well prepared you will stand out, demonstrating that you are prepared to learn, a creative thinker and problem solver, and a team player. All of which will position you well for your first tech position.

• Recommended reading: 4 Important Things You Should Look For In a Job Advertisement.