How To Find Your First Job
Finding your first job is the hardest one to land — employers want experience you do not yet have. This guide shows you how to break the cycle and get hired.
Where to look for entry-level work
- Online opportunity platforms like NextStep Careers SA.
- Learnerships and internships that accept matriculants and graduates.
- Company career pages and LinkedIn.
- Your network — family, friends, former teachers and community.
- Local notice boards and walk-in applications for retail and services.
Step-by-step
- 1Prepare a clean, professional CV and a short cover letter.
- 2Decide on realistic entry-level roles that match your skills.
- 3Apply consistently — treat the job search like a job itself.
- 4Tailor each application to the advert's keywords.
- 5Follow up politely and prepare for interviews.
- 6Consider learnerships and internships to gain experience and a stipend.
How to stand out with no experience
Highlight transferable skills from school, volunteering, projects and informal work. Show enthusiasm, reliability and willingness to learn — qualities entry-level employers value highly. A learnership or internship is often the fastest way to convert "no experience" into a real track record.
Practical tips for South Africa
- Set up daily alerts so you apply to new openings first.
- Keep a simple spreadsheet of where and when you applied.
- Apply for learnerships — they are designed for people without experience.
- Be reachable: a working phone number and professional email matter.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a job with no experience?
Target entry-level roles, learnerships and internships, and emphasise transferable skills from school, volunteering and projects. Learnerships are specifically designed to give you experience plus a stipend.
How many jobs should I apply for?
Apply consistently to every suitable opening — quality applications, but in volume. Many job seekers apply to dozens before landing an offer.
Should I take a learnership or wait for a "real" job?
A learnership is a real opportunity — it pays a stipend, builds experience and often leads to permanent work. It is usually better than waiting.
Key takeaways
- Use multiple channels, especially online platforms and your network.
- Treat the job search like a job — apply consistently and track it.
- Lean on learnerships and internships to gain experience.
- Emphasise transferable skills and a willingness to learn.