How Can I Gain Experience If No One Will Hire Me?

If you've been job hunting lately, you know the drill—those so-called "entry-level" positions that somehow require 2-3 years of experience. It's maddening. I remember when entry-level actually meant entry-level: high school diploma, maybe a bachelor's, and decent pay. Now? Total different ballgame.

I've heard from so many friends stuck in this endless job search loop for years with nothing to show for it. Even people with solid experience are struggling in this mess of the job market. I've been there, too, which is why I decided to just teach myself new skills and see where that takes me.

I know many of you are stuck in the same situation, wondering how you're supposed to break into your field when every door seems locked from the inside.

Look, the traditional job market isn't playing fair. Companies want the perfect candidate who can hit the ground running without any training investment. But that doesn't mean you're screwed. The trick is to rethink what "experience" actually means. It doesn't have to be from some fancy paid position.

Create Your Own Work Start by making your own opportunities. Want to be a writer? Don't wait for someone's permission—start a blog or pitch guest posts to websites. Into marketing? Run social accounts for a local business or build your personal brand. Tech person? Build small projects and showcase them. By the way, IBM offers free certification training if you're into tech. The point is to show that you can do the work, even without the official title.

Freelancing Freelancing is another way in. Maybe it wasn't your first choice, but jumping on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or LinkedIn can help you build a portfolio. You don't need to chase high-paying gigs immediately—just land that first client and go from there. After a few projects, you'll have actual work to show employers, which honestly counts just as much as traditional experience.

Volunteering or Internships Don't overlook volunteering or paid internships. Helping a nonprofit or small business gives you hands-on experience while expanding your network. These connections might just lead to your next paying gig.

If you're feeling beaten down by all this, I totally get it. It sucks to be ready and willing to work when nobody seems willing to give you a chance. But there's always a path forward. Start small, gather experience however you can, and keep going. The right opportunity will show up if you keep pushing toward it.