Tips from 15 hiring experts on how to land a great, entry-level job

A lot of very well-meaning people give a lot of advice to others. Sometimes, that advice is golden. And, sometimes, it is awful.

Perhaps your cousin, aunt, or grandfather were faced with similar issues as you’re facing when searching for a great, new, entry-level job. If so, you’ll want to listen to them and embrace much and perhaps even most of what they have to say. But regardless of the quality of their advice, you should also consider the advice of hiring experts who have been where you are now and who have some great pearls of wisdom to share.

We recently asked 15 hiring experts to each share one or two effective strategies for aspiring professionals seeking entry-level positions in their fields.

• Consider Software Development Careers
• Lead with Emotional Intelligence
• Gain Diverse Marketing Experience
• Prioritize Continuous Learning
• Internships and Continuous Education in HR
• Pursue HRIS Platform Certifications
• Secure Legal Internships and Network
• Emphasize Education and Seek Mentorship
• Showcase Analytical Skills in Finance
• Participate in Crypto Communities
• Undertake E-Commerce Personal Projects
• Adopt a Multidisciplinary E-Learning Approach
• Build Skills and Network in Healthcare
• Experience and Online Presence in Travel
• Research Specific Hybrid Workforce Roles

Consider Software Development Careers

As a marketer with zero STEM/programming experience but with many coder friends, I’d say any kind of software development is the most lucrative option for remote work. Marketing feels oversaturated with talent at the moment and generally pays less, while developers are desperately needed across the board.

If you want to have a marketing career, then lifecycle management, and generally, analytics-focused positions would be great. But again, as an outsider, it appears to me that developers have a much clearer path from zero to hero. Tons of boot camps and internship programs ramp you into a solid job.

As for marketers, we’re kind of on our own. You find a job doing whatever you’ve managed to learn so far (like SMM) and then maneuver into a better position when one becomes available.

Finally, most marketing jobs I find attractive, whether in the U.S. or Europe, tend to be local or hybrid, whereas a developer can work from their own swimming pool in Bali, and nobody seems to care.

Jugnu Nagar, SEO Specialist, GREAT Guest Posts

Lead with Emotional Intelligence

Talent recruitment demands equal parts emotional IQ and tenacity. Early on, dazzled by high-performer resumes, I prioritized deal-closing bravado over customer orientation. Quickly, I learned even stellar capture skills fall flat without empathy; relationships drive this business. Now, I advise those new to tech recruitment: lead with curiosity and humility. Immerse yourself in understanding specialized roles, but also recognize you will never grasp technologies like an engineer. Instead, develop pattern recognition for matching personalities and skill sets to unique environments. Sharpen emotional intelligence through deep listening, identifying unspoken needs. Be more coach than salesperson—guide talent and hiring managers toward fulfillment. Finally, resilience and self-motivation are non-negotiables for this fast-paced, people-first arena. Not every match or contract will work out—breathe through the nos while strengthening determination to find the win/win. Bring strategic tenacity, emotional attunement, and thick skin, and a standout career awaits in this rewarding field.

Lou Reverchuk, Co-Founder and CEO, EchoGlobal

Gain Diverse Marketing Experience

Explore various marketing roles. Reflecting on my journey before I became a CMO, I switched between roles and learned a lot. I learned the power of storytelling in social media marketing, while digital marketing helped me understand more about analytics. I learned to understand customer behavior and analyze data for strategic marketing decisions. I honed my targeted communication and conversion optimization skills as an email marketer.

Every role has something new to teach, and collectively, they can provide a comprehensive understanding of the entire marketing ecosystem. They will also get hands-on experience with various tools and strategies, which can help them identify their interests and strengths. This exposure and experience can help entry-level professionals be better equipped to choose a specialization that aligns with their skills and passion later on. Thus, they can become a valuable asset to their employer and lay a strong foundation for career advancement in the future.

Valerie Lavska, CMO, Promodo

Prioritize Continuous Learning

For those looking to become a life coach, one strategy I’d recommend is continuous learning. Coaching and mental health, in general, are always evolving, so staying informed about the latest research, techniques, and best practices is key. This can be done through workshops, courses, and certifications relevant to your area of interest within the field. This will keep your knowledge base strong and recent while showing your commitment to excellence and growth to your clients.

Bayu Prihandito, Founder, Psychology Consultant, Life Coach for Men, Life Architekture

Internships and Continuous Education in HR

For aspiring professionals seeking entry-level positions in Human Resources, two effective strategies are gaining relevant experience through internships or volunteer opportunities and investing in continuous learning. Internships provide hands-on experience, exposure to HR functions, and networking opportunities. Even if unpaid, the practical knowledge gained is invaluable. Additionally, staying updated on HR trends and obtaining relevant certifications demonstrates commitment and enhances marketability. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning or industry-specific courses can be beneficial. Networking with HR professionals through events or online platforms fosters connections and opens doors. Combining practical experience with ongoing education not only enriches skill sets but also positions aspiring professionals as proactive and dedicated candidates in the competitive field of Human Resources.

Steven Mostyn, Chief Human Resources Officer, Management.org

Pursue HRIS Platform Certifications

I highly recommend that aspiring HRIS professionals pursue certifications in popular HRIS platforms such as Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, or Oracle Cloud HCM. These certifications not only provide a deep understanding of the software but also demonstrate to employers your commitment and capability in managing HR data and systems effectively. Engaging in certification courses allows you to gain hands-on experience through structured learning environments and project work.

Additionally, participating in online forums and study groups related to these certifications can enhance your learning experience and help you network with peers and professionals in the field. Employers often look for candidates with specific platform expertise, making these certifications a significant asset in securing an entry-level position.

Showcasing these certifications on your resume and LinkedIn profile increases your visibility and attractiveness as a candidate in the competitive HRIS job market.

Phil Strazzulla, Founder, SelectSoftware Reviews

Secure Legal Internships and Network

Aspiring criminal attorneys can benefit from gaining practical experience through clerkships or internships at law firms that specialize in criminal law. This practical experience affords significant insight into authentic legal proceedings, interactions with clients, and courtroom protocols. Moreover, networking is an absolute necessity within the legal community. Attend pertinent seminars, conferences, and events in order to network with practicing attorneys and establish connections. Forming mentorship relationships with seasoned criminal attorneys can offer significant counsel and profound perspectives on the field. Ultimately, maintain an informed understanding of criminal law developments by engaging with legal publications, seminars, and online resources. A proactive approach to networking and education will enable aspiring criminal law professionals to distinguish themselves and establish a prosperous career trajectory.

Ahmad Faraj, Owner, Principal & Senior Criminal Lawyer, Faraj Defence Lawyers

Emphasize Education and Seek Mentorship

As an experienced attorney and owner of a legal process outsourcing company, I would advise aspiring professionals seeking entry-level positions in the legal industry to focus on building a strong foundation through education, internships, and networking.

Firstly, a solid academic background is crucial, so aspiring attorneys should prioritize obtaining a reputable legal education.

Additionally, gaining practical experience through internships or clerkships with respected law firms or legal departments can provide invaluable hands-on knowledge.

Networking is equally essential; attending industry events, joining legal associations, and connecting with professionals can open doors to opportunities.

One effective strategy is to actively seek mentorship from seasoned lawyers who can offer guidance and share real-world insights.

For instance, in my own career, I benefited greatly from a mentor who provided valuable advice on client management and case strategy, ultimately shaping my approach to practicing law. Personalized mentorship can be a game-changer for those entering the legal field.

Aseem Jha, Founder & Head of Customer Delivery, Legal Consulting Pro

Showcase Analytical Skills in Finance

The finance industry highly values analytical thinking and quantitative analysis. Enhancing your skills in these areas through coursework, online tutorials, or hands-on projects can make you a more attractive candidate. Being able to interpret financial statements, perform valuation analysis, and utilize statistical software for data analysis are key competencies. My advice is to show evidence of your problem-solving abilities through examples of projects or challenges you’ve tackled, emphasizing how you used analytical skills to achieve results.

Gillian Dewar, Chief Financial Officer, Crediful

Participate in Crypto Communities

Immerse yourself in key communities: Reddit, Twitter, LinkedIn. My journey in crypto and tech was fueled by engaging in these platforms, where active participation actually transformed my own career. Crypto communities are the strongest ones; from rumors to million-dollar deals, they happen every single day there. To stand out, show your expertise, passion, and dedication actively. Employers seek not just skill but genuine enthusiasm in the crypto domain. Dive deep into these platforms, enrich discussions, and share your perspectives. If you are a designer, design your own NFT. If you are a coder, make a tool that caters to traders. Use that as a starting point. Your active presence could be the gateway to your crypto career. Engage, contribute, and connect—this is your path to making a mark in the crypto world.

David Kemmerer, Co-Founder and CEO, CoinLedger

Undertake E-Commerce Personal Projects

Engaging in personal projects or case studies within e-commerce can help in understanding various aspects of online sales data, customer behavior patterns, and even website performance. For example, one can gain fair knowledge about sales data by identifying top-selling products or analyzing customer browsing patterns to improve and upgrade website navigation. Share the discoveries and demonstrate analytical skills by creating reports or presentations. Highlight important insights and suggestions. These projects not only demonstrate your ability to work with real data but also showcase your problem-solving skills and analytical capabilities to potential employers. Additionally, they offer valuable hands-on experience, setting you apart from other candidates when applying for e-commerce roles.

Varun Mukhi, Co-Founder, Scoop Global

Adopt a Multidisciplinary E-Learning Approach

In the e-learning field, a blend of knowledge from multiple disciplines is crucial for success. Understanding educational theories, technology, content creation, and user-experience design is crucial. I advise engaging in online courses across these areas, participating in forums, and embarking on personal e-learning projects to practically apply theoretical knowledge. Networking with professionals from various backgrounds provides a comprehensive perspective on e-learning projects. This multidisciplinary approach is invaluable for aspiring professionals looking to make a significant impact.

Grant Aldrich, Founder, Preppy

Build Skills and Network in Healthcare

Aspiring professionals seeking entry-level positions in the medical industry should build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills. Education and practical experience can help develop these skills. Pursue relevant degrees or certifications, participate in clinical internships, and volunteer at healthcare facilities to gain hands-on experience.

Another strategy is to network actively within the healthcare community. Use platforms like LinkedIn and attend conferences to connect with professionals in the field. Build relationships and seek mentorship to gain valuable insights, opportunities, and referrals for entry-level positions. Aspiring medical professionals can increase their chances of securing their desired roles and kickstarting successful careers in the industry with these tips.

Chris McDermott, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Autonomous Practice (APRN-IP), Certified Life Care Planner (CLCP), Intercoastal Consulting & Life Care Planning

Experience and Online Presence in Travel

Gaining pertinent experience through apprenticeships or volunteer work is a successful strategy for aspiring professionals looking for entry-level positions in the travel industry. These experiences afford individuals practical industry exposure, enabling them to gain firsthand knowledge of various responsibilities, processes, and challenges.

Building a powerful online presence and personal brand is an additional strategy. Leverage social media platforms such as LinkedIn to exhibit your expertise, disseminate pertinent content, and establish connections with industry experts in the travel sector. Consider establishing a blog or professional portfolio to further showcase your travel expertise and enthusiasm.

As you navigate the early stages of your travel industry career, networking with industry professionals, attending industry events or conferences, and pursuing mentorship from seasoned individuals can also provide invaluable guidance and support.

Anam Barkan, Travel Enthusiast, Director Marketing and Founder, Zoyago

Research Specific Hybrid Workforce Roles

This has become somewhat more difficult as hybrid workforce management solutions have become a much more mainstream field since COVID, while at the same time becoming annoyingly difficult to search for on job portals like LinkedIn, Monster, and Indeed. Searching for ‘hybrid’ or ‘hybrid workforce management’ isn’t really going to give you the results you’re looking for, since most jobs now include the word ‘hybrid’ somewhere in the title or description to lure in more traffic. I’d recommend being a bit more specific in your search and avoiding job portals, unless you already know which companies you’re looking for. Do your research, find out who is doing the work you’re interested in within this field, and then search for postings from those companies directly rather than letting an aggregator portal like Indeed try to sort it out for you.

Dragos Badea, CEO, Yarooms