How to Get Hired in Manufacturing When You Don’t Have Much Experience

The manufacturing industry offers countless opportunities for a rewarding career, but breaking into this field isn’t always easy. Whether you’re a new college graduate or a career changer looking to try something new, many companies require relevant experience for consideration. This of course can make it beyond challenging to find a job, but if you play your cards right, it is entirely possible to work your way in.

5 Ways to Get Your First Manufacturing Job

1. Market Your Transferrable Skills: Having the right technical skills for the job is great, but it isn’t everything. It’s much easier for employers to teach you how to use software and other specific systems required for the position, than to have to start from scratch with necessary core competencies. Things like ambition, analytical skills and leadership abilities are innate, so if you already have these, market them as your competitive advantage.
2. Use a Functional Resume: A traditional chronological resume is great if you’re already a seasoned manufacturing industry professional. However, this format won’t work in your favor when trying to break into the field. A functional resume is a much better option, as it highlights your skills relevant to the position instead of showcasing the fact that you don’t have any work experience.
3. Volunteer Your Time: Work experience isn’t the only way you can gain relevant skills to prove your fit for a manufacturing position. Volunteer your time at a local nonprofit organization to build your skill set into experience you can leverage to get the full-time job you’ve been wanting. Plus, you never know who you might meet that could help you get your foot in the door at a great company.
4. Show Passion for the Work: Skills can be sharpened over time, but a passion for the job cannot be acquired. Impress hiring managers with your genuine interest in manufacturing, by fully researching each company prior to the interview, keeping up with current trends and attending industry-relevant conferences and workshops. People want to hire someone who has a true hunger for the work.
5. Learn How to Sell Yourself: If you don’t know why you’re a good fit for the job, then why should anyone hire you? Perfect your sales pitch, so you can clearly articulate what you have to offer a company. Remember, hiring managers aren’t interested in what they can do for your career — they want to know what you can do for their business — so focus on them, not you.

Searching for a great new manufacturing opportunity in Michiana? Wood Staffing can help. Contact us today to gain access to highly coveted positions with many of the top employers in the region!