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How to Get Experience (Even If You’ve Never Had a Job)

Think you have no experience for your resume? Think again. Here's a practical checklist of ways to build real-world skills — from volunteering and school projects to creative side hustles — even if you've never had a job.

Waner Zhangguan

21 Jun 2025 — 1 min read

A checklist for building your resume from zero.

1️⃣Things You Can Start Right Now

Volunteer at a local community organisation
Join a club, committee, or student society
Start a blog, YouTube channel, or creative project
Offer to help family/friends with tasks (e.g. babysitting, tutoring, tech help)
Take a short course (e.g. Canva Design, Excel, First Aid)

2️⃣While You’re Still Studying

List school/university projects with real-world relevance
Ask teachers/lecturers for opportunities (e.g. helping at events)
Apply for student ambassador, peer mentor, or library jobs
Look for internships or placement programs (paid or unpaid)
Join competitions or challenges (e.g. business case comps)

3️⃣ Work-Like Experiences That Count

Freelance for small tasks (on Airtasker, Fiverr, etc.)
Do work experience or job shadowing
Start a small business or sell something (e.g. craft, tutoring, digital art)
Run a fundraiser or community event
Help someone run their business (e.g. social media for a family café)

4️⃣Soft Skills Are Experience Too

Times you’ve solved a problem or helped someone
Taking care of siblings or relatives regularly
Organising a group project, trip, or event
Learning a new skill by yourself (e.g. coding, video editing)
Managing your own study, time, or finances

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