How Can I Find a Job When I've Never Had One?

This might seem like a strange question, but in these tough economic times this is actually a question I hear over and over as I conduct various seminars for couples to help them manage their money - what little they might have.

Individuals who have never actually worked fall into a variety of categories. Some are housewives who literally went from school to raising a family, with or without having given up a career in the process.

Others are the legions of self employed who have worked for themselves for years and years yet when it comes time to filling out some of the newer online job applications, it becomes an impossible task if you can't provide previous company and supervisor's name and contact number. Even though these people have "worked", without being able to provide past employer information, it does little good in many venues.

Last but not least, there are "professional students" who never seem to commit to anything permanent other than signing up for new classes. And of course, the most endangered and faulted of the groups - the teenagers.

In these situations, especially in today's failing economy with job loss occurring at a rate not seen since the early 80s, even top notch candidates who are perfect for a particular position are having an awful time trying to even get a response to their resume or application.

Having no employer references or real work history is tough to get by, in any climate. However, with some perseverance and some strategic planning, there is hope, there are jobs, and there are employers waiting to find you and what you have to offer.

First and foremost - it's not easy. I want to make that clear. There are no "hidden secrets that employers don't want you to know". There is no magic, noronline internet guru who can point you in the right direction. There are, however, ways to turn what you do have to offer into a marketable commodity.

The first thing you need to do is get some professional help with your resume. Remember - a resume is nothing more than your personal marketing brochure. If you view your resume as a list of jobs and responsibilities, you'll never be able to write one. Find a professional career coach or resume writing service (focus on someone who is certified by the National Resume Writers' Assoc.). It won't be cheap, but if you really want to find a job you will need to invest time and money. Competition is stiff, and you'll be competing against people with lists of references and years of experience.

Your resume should be done in what is called a Functional Resume style format. Rather than listing jobs you will be listing your skills, abilities, and perhaps even experience in volunteer activities in that particular industry. Put anything on your resume that a potential employer will find valuable as he determines your suitability.

On this resume, your Objective Statement is vital. This is where you actually have the opportunity to explain quickly and concisely what you are looking for and what you can offer. For example, for someone who has been self employed as a graphic artist for ten years might say, "Experienced graphic designer is seeking full or part time position in small to medium size company. Willing to travel. Can relocate at my own expense. Do not need any company paid benefits." This information is very interesting to potential employers who are now looking to cut costs at all corners and the simple fact that they don't need to pay for medical benefits or feed your 401(k) could be very enticing.

It's important to be very honest with yourself too. There is a good chance that you really don't have much to offer. For instance, a housewife with a high school education who has spent fifteen years acting a chauffeur, housekeeper and cook - well, even finding a minimum wage job at the local mall might be difficult. This is not the time to remember your parents' advice as they encouraged you by saying, "You can do anything!" Maybe you can, but you need to find someone who is going to pay you to do something - and it won't be easy. You may need to take some classes or get a specific type of training before even trying to land a job in this horrendous economic climate. Disappointment could force you to give up too early in the process.

For those who are frustrated by the online applications that force you to provide information that is impossible for your particular situation (employers, contact info, etc.), you need to forget the online application process. Even though some companies state that applications will only be accepted online, you have some choices to think about. You can bypass this request and submit an application the old fashioned way - send them an actual resume (your newly written functional resume!), along with a cover letter. Make a few phone calls to find out who the appropriate HR Manager is. It might take longer this way, but if you are truly interested in a particular position, don't let roadblocks like "only online applications will be accepted" get in your way.

Where there's a will, there's a way. And where there's an employer - there's an employee. And it could be you!