Author: WAI Staff

Whitman Associates is a professional staffing agency serving businesses and job seekers in the Washington, D.C. area. Since 1972, we’ve been dedicated to matching highly qualified candidates with a wide variety of temporary, temp-to-hire and permanent positions. We prioritize the needs of both our clients and candidates to ensure successful, lasting relationships.

How to Land a Job with No Experience: A Comprehensive Guide

WAI Staff
A man in glasses sitting at an office table with coworkers.

Navigating the job market and constructing your resume with little to no work experience can be a daunting task. However, with the right mindset, strategic planning, and leveraging powerful resources like Whitman Associates, landing your first job is entirely achievable. In this blog, we’ll explore some actionable steps to help you break into the professional world. Let’s discover how to get a great job, even with no experience.

Embrace Networking

Networking is a powerful tool in how to get a job with no experience in the digital age. It’s not just about shaking hands at industry events; it’s about forging genuine connections that open doors to opportunities. Attend industry-specific events online and in person to gain valuable knowledge and make your presence known.

Consider joining professional organizations related to your field of interest. These organizations often host networking events and provide resources for job seekers.

LinkedIn is an essential tool for modern networking. Make sure your profile is complete, professional, and engaging. Regularly share and comment on posts related to your industry to increase your visibility. Connect with professionals in your field, join industry-specific groups, and don’t shy away from reaching out to potential mentors.

Highlight Transferable Skills

You may lack professional experience, but chances are, you’ve developed valuable skills in other areas of your life. Volunteering, school projects, hobbies, or even personal challenges can all provide valuable experience.
Identify these transferable skills and learn how to articulate them effectively in your resume to get a job with no experience. Leadership, teamwork, project management, and communication are all highly valued in the professional world. Showcase these skills with specific examples or stories.

Gain Experience through Internships and Volunteering

Internships and volunteering offer valuable opportunities to gain experience, learn industry-specific skills, and build a professional network. These no-experience-needed jobs will make you a better candidate for your dream job. Plus, they demonstrate to employers your initiative and commitment to your chosen field. It’s a win-win!

Tap into the Power of Temp Jobs

four women working together in an office space

Temporary jobs are an excellent gateway into the job market. They offer you a chance to gain professional experience, learn new skills, and build a network. And many times, they can lead to permanent positions.

Whitman Associates has been a leader in the staffing industry since 1972, offering candidates exceptional opportunities with businesses in the Washington D.C. area. Applying to temp jobs through Whitman Associates is about gaining a partner in your job search. We provide guidance, insights, and full-service support to meet your needs, teaching you how to get a job even with no experience.

Leverage Technology

Technology has revolutionized the job hunt process! If you’re wondering how to get a job with no experience needed, using job search engines and company websites to find opportunities are great places to start. Sign up for email alerts for new postings that match your interests and qualifications.

Utilize online tools to create a sleek, modern resume and cover letter. Websites like Canva offer free templates that can help your application stand out. Also, consider creating an online portfolio to showcase your skills, particularly for creative roles.
Video interviews are increasingly becoming the norm, so it’s essential to feel comfortable in front of a camera. Be sure to build upon and practice your interview skills consistently to stay on your interview A-game.

Tailor Your Application

When applying for jobs with no work experience, avoid submitting generic resumes and cover letters. Instead, tailor your application to the specific job and company. Research the business, identify its values, and use your findings to show how you can contribute to help you get the job with no experience. Employers appreciate candidates who take the time to understand their business and its needs.

Developing a Personal Brand

Looking to take your personal branding strategy past your perfectly-tailored resume? Your personal brand is a reflection of your unique skills, experiences, and passions. Developing a strong personal brand can help differentiate you from other candidates. Create a consistent online presence across various platforms and showcase your expertise and relevant experience through blog posts, articles, and social media content.

Keep Learning

Even as you’re learning how to get a job with no experience, continue to invest in your education and keep learning. Online platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy offer free courses across a wide range of subjects. Earning certifications in relevant areas can bolster your resume if you have no work experience and demonstrate how committed you are to the field.

Moreover, consider going back to school if it aligns with your long-term career goals. Pursuing further education, such as a graduate degree or vocational training, can enhance your skills and make you more competitive in the job market. However, it’s crucial to weigh the benefits and costs, including time commitment and financial investment, to ensure it’s the right choice for your situation. Whether it’s a formal degree or an online course, continuous learning is a valuable strategy in your career journey.

Stay Persistent and Positive

Embarking on a job search and learning how to get a job with no experience can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming. You’re likely to face rejection and possibly criticism along the way. However, it’s essential to stay persistent and maintain a positive mindset. The key is to remain open to feedback and continuously seek ways to enhance your skills and qualifications. 

Maintaining a positive attitude during your job search isn’t just about feeling good—it’s a strategic move. Employers are more likely to hire candidates who demonstrate resilience, optimism, and a can-do attitude. Each step, no matter how small, brings you closer to your career goals.

Seek Professional Guidance

Learning how to get a job with no experience may seem challenging, but it’s not impossible. With a strategic approach, a robust network, and the guidance of experienced professionals like Whitman Associates, your career journey can begin on a strong footing.

With our A+ Better Business Bureau rating and stellar Google Rating, you can rest assured that Whitman Associates is here to help you land your dream job. Serving the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia area, we have been connecting job seekers with the region’s top employers for more than 50 years.

Get in Touch with Whitman Associates Today

By following these steps and leveraging resources like Whitman Associates, you’ll understand exactly how to get a great job—even with no experience. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and with the right mindset, resources, and persistence, your ‘somewhere’ could be just around the corner!

Reach out to us at (202) 659-2111 or send us your resume via email. Together, we can transform your career aspirations into a fulfilling reality.

Questions To Ask in an Informational Interview

WAI Staff
Two women having an informational interview at a table.

Have you ever found yourself wondering how to break into a new industry or where you can gain insights into a particular career path? Informational interviews can allow you to ask questions about a company or a career field before you formally apply. These meetings can unlock valuable knowledge, expand your professional network and accelerate your career growth. 

Here’s everything you need to know about what informational interviews are, why you should request one and how to go about setting up and conducting these invaluable conversations.

What is an informational interview?

An informational interview is a one-on-one conversation between you and someone working in an industry, role or organization you’re interested in. The purpose of this informal meeting is to gather information, advice and insights from someone with firsthand experience. Informational interviews are not job interviews, so you won’t be asking questions about specific job openings or asking for a job directly. Instead, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the industry and job category you are interested in, learn about potential career paths and build relationships that could lead to future opportunities.

Here are a few of the great benefits of requesting an informational interview:

Gain insider information

Informational interviews offer an opportunity to ask key questions and learn about the ins and outs of a particular role or industry from someone who’s “been there, done that.”

Expand your network

Establishing connections with professionals in your desired field can open doors to potential job opportunities, mentorships or referrals.

Improve your interview skills

These conversations can help you practice communicating effectively and confidently as a job seeker, which will prove useful during actual job interviews.

How to ask for an informational interview

Reaching out to professionals to ask for an informational interview can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. LinkedIn, for example, is a career-focused networking space where questions about a person’s role or industry are incredibly common.

Think of it this way — a growth-oriented company is always looking for new talent and wants job seekers to show interest. If you find someone who loves what they do, they will probably also love talking about it and relish the chance to answer your questions. Here are some tips on how to ask for an informational interview.

Research

Start by identifying professionals in your desired field, role or organization. LinkedIn is an excellent resource for this — you can search for people by job title, industry or company, and even filter by location or shared connections.

Connect

Once you’ve found potential informational interviewees, send them a connection request or message with your question. Be sure to personalize your request by mentioning shared connections or interests and explaining why you’re reaching out. Keep it brief and respectful.

Be specific

Clearly state that you’re looking to conduct an informational interview and provide context about your career goals or interests. Let them know you value their time and are only seeking 20-30 minutes of their expertise.

Be flexible

Offer a range of dates and times when you request an informational interview, and be willing to accommodate the interviewee’s schedule. Be open to conducting the interview in person, over the phone or via video call.

Hi Samantha!

I’m a communications student at Georgetown. I’m interested in event management after I graduate, and I’d love to hear more about your experience working with DC Event Planners. Do you have 20 minutes for a quick meet-up or phone call? 

Some people will respectfully decline, but you may be surprised by how many people say yes.

Questions to ask during an informational interview

Now that you’ve successfully secured an informational interview, it’s time to prepare a list of thoughtful questions to ask. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

  • Can you describe a typical day in your role?
  • What do you enjoy most about your job, and what are the biggest challenges?
  • How did you get started in this industry, and what steps did you take to reach your current position?
  • What skills or qualifications are most important for success in this role or industry?
  • Can you recommend any resources (books, websites, professional associations) for someone looking to learn more about this field?
  • What career advice do you have for someone looking to break into this industry or transition into a similar role?
  • Are there any upcoming networking events or industry conferences you’d recommend attending?
  • Can you suggest other professionals I should speak with to gain further insights into this field?

Following up and thanking the interviewer

Once you’ve completed your informational interview and asked all of your key questions, it’s time to follow up. The follow-up is a crucial step in the informational interview process, as it helps solidify the relationship you’ve built with the interviewee and demonstrates your gratitude for their time and insights.

Send a thank-you note

Within 24 hours of the interview, send a personalized thank-you email or handwritten note to the interviewee. Express your appreciation for their time, reiterate what you found most valuable from the conversation and mention any next steps you plan to take based on their advice.

Connect on LinkedIn

If you haven’t already, add your informational interviewee on LinkedIn with a personalized connection request. This will help you stay in touch and keep up-to-date with their professional journey.

Share updates

As you make progress in your career journey, don’t hesitate to share updates with the interviewee. They’ll likely be interested in hearing about how their advice has helped you, and it’s a great way to maintain the relationship.

Pay it forward

As your career progresses, be open to conducting informational interviews for others who may want to ask questions about your career path. Sharing your knowledge and experience can make a significant impact on someone else’s career journey.

Accelerate your success with Whitman Associates

Requesting an informational interview to ask your connection key questions is a powerful networking tool that can provide valuable insights into your desired career path, expand your professional network and hone your communication skills. By being proactive in requesting and conducting these interviews, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking new career opportunities and achieving your professional goals. 

When you’re ready to further your career search, remember that Whitman Associates can help — saving you precious time and money on your journey. As a trusted partner in professional staffing since 1972, our knowledgeable and friendly team is dedicated to matching your unique skills and aspirations with the perfect opportunities. Send your resume to resumes@whitmanjobs.com to get started.

LinkedIn Profile Best Practices

WAI Staff

LinkedIn has become a necessity in today’s job market. It’s one of the first places employers will look to evaluate a candidate, and it remains one of the most powerful tools for job hunting, recruitment and networking. LinkedIn offers a wealth of opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, build your personal brand and even find your dream job — but you have to know how to use it.

Your LinkedIn profile is your personal brand, your online resume and your virtual business card. This is where potential employers will come to learn more about you, so it’s important to put your best foot forward. Here are nine best practices that every job seeker should know.

A tablet showing the LinkedIn app in the App Store

1. Treat LinkedIn messaging like a professional email.

LinkedIn is not a platform for casual conversations or small talk. When you’re using your LinkedIn profile to communicate with potential employers or recruiters, it is best practice to treat your messaging as a professional email. Use proper grammar, punctuation and capitalization, and always be respectful and courteous. 

If you message a recruiter, address them by their first name. In online culture, Mr. and Ms. sound overly formal. Instead, write a clear, concise message with a friendly tone.

2. If you are open to work, say so! 

One of the most important features to use on LinkedIn when finding a job is the “Open to Work” setting. This lets recruiters know that you’re actively looking for a job. This is different from the #OpenToWork banner that many people overlay on their profile pictures. The setting is private and will only show your preference to recruiters, allowing you to make new connections without worrying about your current employer seeing your status.

3. List all locations you are open to work. 

If you’re using LinkedIn to find a job in the D.C. area, one of the most important details you need to include is your location. However, you shouldn’t just list your current location, especially if you’re open to relocating for a job. It is best practice to add all the cities or regions where you would be willing to work to your LinkedIn profile. This will make it easier for employers to find you when they’re searching for candidates based on location.

4. Select whether you are willing to work remotely. 

Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years, and many job seekers are looking for opportunities that allow them to work from anywhere in the world. If you’re only interested in remote work, it is a good idea to select that setting on your LinkedIn profile. Keep in mind that, post-pandemic, many companies have adopted hybrid models of working or are back in the office full time. For instance, some companies may require one day per week in the office, or some companies may allow 100% remote work but require that you keep business hours in a certain time zone. If you’re open to hybrid options, our best job search advice is to list geographical locations and your preference to work remotely.

A woman in glasses working on her laptop.

5. Use keywords.

Make sure you’re using keywords in your profile that are relevant to the job openings you’re applying for. For example, if your goal is to become a communications assistant, look at relevant job descriptions from several different companies. If you notice they all mention marketing, creativity and communication, your LinkedIn headline could read, “Creative Marketer with Communications Experience.” Recruiters often use LinkedIn’s search function to find candidates, so using relevant keywords in your profile can help you appear in their search results. If you’re using LinkedIn to find a job, this can increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters who are looking for someone with your specific skills and experience.

6. Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date.

Your LinkedIn profile is not a “set it and forget it” kind of thing. One of the most important LinkedIn best practices is to keep your profile up to date with your latest job experience, skills and achievements. Make sure your headline is clear and concise, and your summary accurately reflects who you are and what you can offer. Update your profile picture regularly, and make sure it’s a professional-looking photo. 

7. Use an appropriate photo (no selfies!).

Speaking of photos, your LinkedIn profile picture is an essential part of your personal brand. It’s the first thing that potential employers will see when they come across your profile, so it’s important to make a good impression. It is best practice to ensure that your LinkedIn profile picture is a professional-looking headshot that accurately reflects who you are. If you have a portfolio website or other professional social media accounts, use the same profile picture on all of them. This will help any prospective employer connect the dots between your different online profilespresences.

8. Be selective. 

Be selective about the job postings you apply to. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of job categories and job postings on LinkedIn, but applying to every job you see isn’t the best approach. Instead, focus on the jobs that are the best fit for your skills and experience, and take the time to tailor your application materials to each position.

9. Be patient!

Finally, be patient. Even with all of these LinkedIn profile best practices in place, finding a job can take time, and it’s important to stay positive and persistent in your job search. 

If you’re using LinkedIn to find a job in the D.C. area, don’t forget that it is also a networking platform. Don’t just use it to search for jobs; be sure to also connect with other professionals in your field. Join groups, engage in discussions and share articles or insights that showcase your expertise. Networking is a powerful tool that can help you get your foot in the door, and it’s essential to building your personal brand on LinkedIn. So keep networking, keep applying to jobs and keep your LinkedIn profile up to date. With time and effort, you’ll find the right job for you!

A LinkedIn profile is an incredibly powerful tool for job seekers — by following these best practices, you can increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters and finding your dream job.

Find Your Next Role with Whitman Associates

If you’re looking for additional support and guidance in your job search, we can help. Whitman Associates is a professional staffing agency serving the Washington D.C. area — we’ve been helping candidates find and secure their dream jobs since 1972! 

Get started by emailing your resume to resumes@whitmanjobs.com. Our team of staffing experts will take the time to review your resume and connect you with job opportunities that match your skills and experience. We look forward to helping you take the next step forward in your career search.

Temp of the Month for July 2023: Hyebin Kim

WAI Staff


Hyebin Kim has been working as an Executive Assistant through Whitman Associates since May of 2023.

She completed her Bachelor’s Degree of International Affairs with a concentration in Global Public Health at George Washington University. She currently resides in Arlington, Virginia, and is interested in pursuing a Master’s degree in the near future.

In her free time, she enjoys paddling boating, hiking and exploring the DMV area.

Temp of the Month for June 2023: Andrew Schultheiss

WAI Staff

Hamilton College is where Andrew gained a lasting interest – the intersection of psychology and law. Following Andrew’s time at Hamilton, he relocated to the DMV area to begin a MA in Forensic Psychology at George Washington University.

Andrew completed his Masters in May and received the Academic Excellence in Forensic Psychology Award. While completing his final class, Andrew started a new role as the Intake and Office Assistant at a nonprofit legal clinic through Whitman Associates.

Andrew enjoys being outdoors and is looking forward to enjoying the summer before he begins law school at Georgetown in the fall!

Temp of the Month for May 2023: Natalia Tecca

WAI Staff

After graduating from the George Washington University in May 2022, and a summer spent on the West Coast, Natalia Tecca returned to the DMV and started working as an Administrative and Database Assistant at a law firm through Whitman Associates in December of 2022.

While at GW, Natalia double majored in Psychology and Organizational Sciences with a minor in Criminal Justice and was awarded the Zeidner Prize for Undergraduate Excellence in Organizational Sciences. She has experience as an Employee Engagement Intern and volunteered as an Onboarding Assistant with the American Red Cross. She is also a math tutor for middle and high school students. In her free time she likes to spend time outdoors, going on walks or wandering around somewhere new. Natalia goes through phases of new artistic hobbies such as ceramics, painting, or embroidering and is currently learning how to crochet, typically accompanied by binge watching New Girl.

Temp of the Month for April 2023: Isabelle Mack

WAI Staff

Isabelle Mack is a retired nonprofit professional who has worked in the nonprofit/philanthropic sector for more than 30 years and is dedicated to community service. She has received a number of community service awards that include the District of Columbia’s Ward 5 Council on Education, the President’s Award of Appreciation from the DC Congress of PTAs and the Outstanding Public Service Award to Public Schools from the Urban League (DC Chapter) as a result of her dedicated community service. She was a founding member of the Black Philanthropic Alliance that cultivated leadership and philanthropy in the African American Diaspora.

Ms. Mack is currently a notary public commissioned and bonded in the District of Columbia and a certified signing agent. Ms. Mack is also a former licensed realtor in the District of Columbia for over 10 years. Thus, she is quite familiar with all aspects of real estate sales and funding.

Ms. Mack is a native Washingtonian who enjoys hand dancing, which was declared the official dance of the District of Columbia. She is a second soprano and sings occasionally with the Senior Choir of the Shiloh Baptist Church.

Ms. Mack holds an Associate in Applied Science in Communications, Bachelor of Science in International Business with a minor in Human Resource Management and a Master of Science in Public Administration. She is a member of the National Notary Association and a member of the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society.

Office Etiquette Do’s And Don’ts: How To Prepare For A Return In Office

WAI Staff

Office work is ubiquitous in the D.C. metropolitan area. However, many people may be returning to work after some time away, working remotely or joining the workforce for the first time, and may be rusty with office etiquette. Whatever your situation, it is important to be aware of office behavior guidelines and best practices.

Most employers provide written policies that make it clear how employees are expected to behave when representing the company. Nonetheless, it is important for job seekers to educate themselves on the do’s and don’ts of office etiquette. That is true whether you are preparing for an interview, starting your first day on a new job, or learning how to prepare for a return to the office.

Office team environment

Office work is inherently team-based. Workplace etiquette requirements are more than a series of boxes that need to be checked. Instead, they are best practices that allow you to support your team members and maximize your integration into a new team environment. The do’s and don’ts of office etiquette are meant to provide a framework for effective collaboration.

Review basic office behavior guidelines

DO your best to make a good impression each day

New and returning office workers need to ensure they are punctual and dressed appropriately for their roles. Maintaining appropriate work attire and an accurate calendar may be a good place to start if you have been absent and are wondering how to prepare for a return to the office. 

DON’T police your teammates

As you’re reviewing office etiquette do’s and don’ts, you may be tempted to call out team members who are not following best practices. However, it’s probably not within the scope of your role to supervise your coworkers. If you feel there is a serious issue with one of your colleagues, follow the proper channels for reporting employee behavior so that their supervisor can remind them of the office behavior guidelines.

DO learn how to properly make requests like taking time off

As a new hire, you may be in a probational situation with specific requirements regarding requests for time off. Familiarize yourself with best practices, and find out about your company’s guidelines as early as you can.

DON’T conduct a job search while at the office

This is especially relevant for temporary hires. While in your current role, you will likely be searching for a permanent placement of some kind. Do not search for other jobs or work on your resume while you are at the office.

Familiarize yourself with your company’s HR policies

DO read your company’s office behavior guidelines and learn where to ask questions

Basic office etiquette do’s and don’ts are common to most industries and organizations, but your employer may have a unique approach. New hires are usually provided with an employee handbook or basic behavioral guidelines as part of their onboarding. Be sure to read these, and learn which personnel you can bring your questions to.

DON’T assume that any team member can answer your questions

Human resource departments exist for a reason. Companies employ specialists to coordinate behavioral policy and ensure a positive work environment. If you have questions, ask the appropriate person – not every team member will be familiar with your organization’s official policies which may vary depending on your specific position.

Follow COVID best practices

DO some research into the COVID requirements in your industry 

The do’s and don’ts of office etiquette have seen dramatic changes in the past few years. This includes basic logistical concerns around hybrid and remote work as well as new expectations for office interactions. Most organizations now have written guidelines that cover COVID-related issues such as masks, personal distance and cleaning policies. Make sure you know what your organization’s policies are, as the health of your coworkers may depend on it. It’s important to be respectful of your colleagues and following company guidelines regarding COVID is a great way to do that.

If you are working remotely, be sure to behave professionally in your online interactions. Likewise, be patient and courteous with colleagues who are navigating unorthodox work arrangements.

DON’T assume everyone is comfortable with a handshake

Recent events have made it clear that everyone needs to respect the personal space of others. One consequence of this is a reduction in the number of handshakes during an office workday. There is no widely agreed-upon substitute for handshakes at this time.

Two people tapping elbows

Ask your colleagues before going in for a handshake. If you are uncomfortable with others in your personal space, you may express this, but be sure to do so tactfully.

Return to the office with Whitman Associates

Finding a position that matches your experience and career goals simplifies a lot of questions around office etiquette. 

Whitman Associates, Inc. has been connecting people in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia with the region’s top employers since 1972. We are happy to provide office etiquette do’s and don’ts specific to your new position. Call (202) 659-2111 in the DMV area or email us your resume.

Temp of the Month for March 2023: Charlize Grady

WAI Staff

Charlize Grady started working for an engineering company through Whitman Associates in October of 2022. She is loving the thrill and learning she’s getting from her job. She finds the work both challenging and rewarding. Charlize is also happy to have a flexible work schedule that allows her to work from home and spend time with her family.

Charlize Grady is a dedicated immigrant from the Philippines who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting Technology. She is a wife and mother to a three-year-old son. Charlize enjoys spending her free time at home watching movies with her family, and reading books. She is also a fan of the Golden State Warriors. Charlize has decided to re-enter the corporate world to build her career and make herself and her family proud of what she will accomplish as a woman.

Temp of the Month February 2023: Debra Morin

WAI Staff

Debra started work through Whitman Associates in 2022 and has loved being able to slowly get back into administrative work while testing the balance with her home life and other activities. She has completed several small assignments and just started her latest at a firm she worked for previously. The part-time, work-from-home assignments allow her to also spend time with her husband and 3 teens.

Debra loves to be outdoors, either on the lake, biking, hiking trails with her dogs or camping. She also enjoys teaching strength, mobility and dance fitness classes at her local YMCA, which she has done for 12 years. Debra is a fan of the Tennessee Volunteers and cheers them on the in whatever sport is in season.