While the term "entry-level" typically refers to jobs that require little to no actual work experience, recent analyses from LinkedIn and The Wall Street Journal found that a significant percentage of postings for jobs described as entry-level require at least three years of experience.
In fact, companies are increasingly requiring prior experience, hybrid skillsets or even advanced degrees for roles in software development, UX or data analytics that were traditionally reserved for professionals looking to begin their careers.
What’s going on? The definition of "entry-level" and the requirements for those positions have shifted as organizations move towards flatter hierarchies, making it crucial for employees to take ownership of their work with limited oversight, explained Scott Dettman, CEO of Avenica.
While employers may state that they require experience for an entry-level job, don’t let that stop you. Here are some tips for landing a so-called “entry-level” job in tech that requires several years of hands-on experience.
Summary
Apply Anyway
Don't take the requirements literally. An employer may expand the experience requirements for a position just to see who they can attract, explained Karen Sharp-Price, a professional career coach who has experience in human resources. Plus, you can use cumulative experience (i.e., the total across multiple jobs, internships, side projects and student activities, whether they were paid or unpaid) to satisfy the requirement.
Since you have no way of knowing the size of the applicant pool, don’t let exaggerated or unrealistic requirements keep you from throwing your hat in the ring for a role at a company you’ve researched. If you’re a good fit, you’re a good fit.
Also a more experienced candidate will usually demand a higher salary, giving a less experienced candidate with a lower salary demand the edge once the screening process begins.
Don’t Be a One-Trick Pony
Employers increasingly require more experience for entry-level jobs due to the rising complexity of work and the desire for candidates who can do more than one thing well, Dettman said.
For example, an employer may advertise for an entry-level UX designer with marketing experience or an entry-level data scientist with “sales skills” so they can effectively communicate their insights, methodologies, and ideas to stakeholders.
Developing distinct, yet complementary areas of expertise is crucial for navigating the evolving market for entry-level talent and staying competitive.
To effectively present yourself as versatile and muti-faceted despite having limited work experience, showcase both technical and non-technical skills, relevant coursework, certifications, and internships or projects where you’ve applied your skills in your resume, online profiles and interviews.
By requiring more experience, employers hope to ensure that new hires work out. So be sure to offer a portfolio, code samples and other examples of your work as proof of your broader abilities.
Market Yourself as High Potential
No matter what the job description says, hiring managers are looking to hire workers with the most potential, not the most experience, especially for entry-level positions.
High-potential individuals are characterized by a combination of traits that will not only make you a more attractive candidate but help you bypass the lengthy experience requirements in job postings.
For example, high potential candidates don’t apply for jobs, they campaign. “If you’re counting on the sheer volume of applications to land a position, be prepared to be disappointed,” Dettman warned.
High-potential candidates skip over the screening process by leveraging their existing network, making new contacts and requesting informational interviews with people who work in their desired field, industry and employers. They exhibit reasonable self-confidence, strong communication skills and a willingness to learn.
When a candidate consistently demonstrates initiative and follow-through, they tend to leave a strong impression that leads to introductions, referrals and ultimately offers.
Spend more time researching companies and less time applying for jobs, advised Sharp-Price.
The better you can articulate what you’re looking for in a career and employer and why, the more impressive you’ll be. When clearly articulated, your “why” demonstrates to employers that you are not just looking for a job, but a company and culture where you can grow and contribute.
Take a Non-Linear Approach
Many new college graduates approach job searching like consumers by expressing a preference for certain industries, roles and career paths; as a result, many are struggling to find jobs.
Don’t overlook industries that are often considered to be less glamorous or sexy. Viewing your first job as a building block, even though it might be less than ideal, provides valuable groundwork for future success.
The primary advantage of a non-linear career path is that you are able to develop a diverse skill set while broadening your perspectives and experiences. Building your career in a non-linear way can give you the chance to take on different challenges, step outside of your comfort zone to learn new skills, and adapt to the rapid changes in the talent market, especially in technology.
