Starting a new career can be daunting, especially if you’re interested in a skilled trade but have little to no experience. Most people assume that you need to have extensive knowledge in a trade before an employer will be willing to give you a chance. But that’s not necessarily true.
The reality is that the trade industry is among the easiest sectors to break into as a beginner. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as an electrician, plumber, mechanic, carpenter, or any other trade profession, the key is to get your foot in the door and go from there.
For instance, you can pursue an online trade certification to get into the industry. You can, from there, gain experience and build your skill set to reach your dream position in the trades.
Here are five tips that can help you get started in a trade career with little to no experience.
- Learn What Each Trade Really Involves
Before you commit yourself to any particular trade, it‘s vital that you have an understanding of what the trade really entails. Doing so is essential since you might, after doing some research, come to the conclusion that the trade isn’t really up your alley.
Each trade is different. While one trade may require you to work indoors, another trade may require you to work outdoors, regardless of the weather. And while one trade may require you to work a regular 9-to-5, another trade may require you to work irregular hours.
By learning more about each trade through online resources, job postings, and other sources of information, you can get a good understanding of what each position entails. Talking to people who are already in the trade is also a good idea. They can give you the unvarnished nitty-gritty.
- Start With Entry-Level Roles or Apprenticeships
The trade industry is one of the best industries to get into as a beginner because it offers many entry-level positions that are designed for beginners.
Your goal should be to find apprenticeships that’ll allow you to get your foot in the door and maybe even get paid while you learn the role. Apprenticeships usually involve the following:
- On-the-job training under the guidance of experienced professionals
- Classroom or technical school instruction
- Higher wages as skills improve
- A clear path to certification or licensing
Laborer jobs can be a great place to start. Even if you don’t know what you’re doing at the beginning, you can still gain valuable experience. Many experienced tradespeople started out sweeping floors or carrying tools for the tradespeople on the job.
- Invest in Basic Education and Certifications
While experience is essential, basic education and certifications can play a significant role in getting you started. Trade schools, community colleges, and vocational schools can provide you with a basic education that can help you gain a foothold in the trade.
Safety certifications, first aid certifications, or basic trade certifications can play a significant role in getting you noticed by potential employers. These certifications can help you stand out from the crowd of people with little or no education or training.
The good thing is that these certifications can be completed quickly and at little cost. Depending on the certifications you choose, you might be done in as little as a single day.
- Concentrate on Soft Skills and Work Ethic
It’s important to note that while experience is key, soft skills play a critical role in getting you noticed by potential employers. Showing up on time, listening to instructions, and having a positive attitude can play a significant role in getting you noticed by potential employers.
Trades often mean team-based environments where trust and cooperation are important. Professionalism will go a long way toward opening up more opportunities.
- Be Patient and Think Long-Term
You’ll need patience to start a trade career with no experience. In the beginning, the work may be physically demanding and less lucrative than you’d like. That’s where patience and determination come into the picture.
Trades require patience and persistence. As you gain experience and earn certifications, your earning potential and opportunities will increase.
Having a long-term perspective will help you stay motivated even when the going gets tough. Your short-term sacrifices will be well worth the long-term benefits.
You can get into trade careers with no experience. By learning about the trade you wish to enter, looking for entry-level opportunities, investing in a basic education, and adopting the right work habits, you can build a successful and rewarding career from the ground up.
The trades offer stability and growth. With the right mindset and preparation, your lack of experience today can lead to expertise and success tomorrow.
