Ask HR

Q. What is the best way for a job applicant with no experience to get an entry-level position?

Jennifer Melton, EEOC & Diversity Management Consultant for F&H Solutions Group

A.

Capitalize on applicable skill sets acquired through secondary and/or post-secondary schools. Focus on how these transferable skills will benefit the potential employer. As a foundation, highlight participation in leadership roles through school-sponsored activities, community organizations and internship opportunities. Basic leadership qualities and adaptability to ever-changing work environments are attractive assets to all industry types.

Karen McNair, Director of Corporate Trainining, Goodwill of North Georgia, Inc.

A. Persistence pays off. Do the research necessary to uncover the hiring manager for the department in which you have an interest. Contact the manager to find out the requirements of the position. Follow up with the manager to communicate your interest in the position and the value you will bring to their organization. You may not have specific skills relating to the position, however all employers value staff who have a positive attitude, are highly motivated, persistent and who show initiative. Be careful though - you want to show interest, not stalk the employer.

Dawn Bading, VP of Human Resources, Kaiser Permanente

A. “Everyone assumes that experience has to be job experience … it doesn’t. I have found that many skills are developed through volunteer work, school/civic associations, Girl/Boy Scouts (what better demonstration of commitment and potential leadership than achieving Eagle Scout), just to name a few. Focus on what skills you have developed as related to what is needed for the position, don’t limit yourself to prior job experience.”

The following human resources professionals are members of the Atlanta Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management. If you have a question you would like to ask a panel of local experts, please e-mail it to Sharon Belhamel, vice president of public relations for SHRM-Atlanta at sbelhamel@bellsouth.net. For more information about becoming a member of SHRM-Atlanta, please visit their membership section or call 404.442.7335.