Your first role isn’t about being the most qualified – it’s about being the most consistent.
When I was job hunting, I didn’t know where to start. No roadmap. Just vibes and LinkedIn. But I knew that someway somehow I would get my first tech job. So here are the things that actually helped me move from “no experience” to signing my first offer.
1. Set a Daily Job Application Target
Pick a number – 5, 10, whatever you can handle – and stick to it. Job hunting is a system, not a one-day sprint. Some days you’ll feel motivated, some days you’ll feel motivated, some days you’ll feel drained. Consistency carries you through both.
2. Don’t Box Yourself Into One Role
Your first job doesn’t need to be perfect.
It just needs to get you inside the building.
Apply widely: related roles, adjacent roles, anything that grows your skillset.
Flexibility increases your chances.
3. Do Something That Makes You Stand Out
Most people rely only on their CV.
You stand out by showing proof you’re learning:
- Certifications
- Personal or group projects
- Volunteering for small organisations
- Helping friends/family with their digital needs
Effort is a differentiator – especially when you have no experience.
4. Build a Simple Portfolio
Nothing crazy. One page.
A few projects, a short bio, a way to contact you.
It makes you look like you take your career seriously.
5. Get Used to Rejection (It’s Part of Process)
Rejection doesn’t mean you’re not good enough – it means you’re early.
Your “yes” often comes after 30, 40, or even 100 applications.
That’s just the truth.
6. Message Recruiters & Hiring Managers Directly
Don’t only rely on job boards.
A short message can put your name in front of the right person instead of getting lost in a pile of 500 applications.
7. Learn How to Tell Your Story in Interviews
You don’t need a crazy amount of experience.
You just need to know how to explain:
- What you did
- Why you did it
- What you learned
Your clarity matters more than your technical depth at this stage.
8. Keep Learning While Applying
Don’t pause your growth waiting for interviews
Every day you learn something new, you become more confident and valuable.
9. Track Your Progress
Seeing your applications, interviews, and follow-ups on a spreadsheet helps you stay organised and objective. It also stops the process from feeling chaotic.
10. Remember Who You’re Doing This For
Maybe it’s your family.
Maybe your younger self.
Maybe your future.
When you’re a first-get, getting your first job isn’t just a career move – it’s a life shift.
Overall
If you’re still looking for that first role, I hope this has helped you or given you ideas.
We’re all figuring it out at our own pace.
Here are some resources that helped me get my first tech role:
https://github.com/codecrafters-io/build-your-own-x
