Securing a good job without professional experience is a challenge for millions of Brazilians, especially those seeking their first job or who have decided to change careers. The question is always the same: “"How am I going to get hired if no one gives me a chance to start?"”

The good news is that yes, It is possible to get a good job even without prior experience. The secret lies in how you present yourself, how you search for the right jobs, and, above all, how you value what you already have: your skills, your willingness, and your history.

If you're in this situation, this post will help you take the first step the right way.

What does "not having experience" mean?

When a recruiter mentions "experience," they are usually referring to the length of formal employment in a specific role. But this It doesn't mean you don't have relevant experiences.

Perhaps you:

  • Have you ever helped a relative in their business?
  • Have you done volunteer work?
  • Have you sold something informally?
  • Participated in projects at school or church.
  • Completed courses, workshops or training programs.

All of this It counts as life experience and can be translated into professional skills.

Skills that are worth more than years of formal employment.

Employers are paying increasingly close attention to what you... knows how to do it in practice, ...and not just what's written on your resume. Here are some skills that are highly valued, even without formal experience:

  • Knowing how to communicate well
  • Being punctual and responsible
  • Working well in a team
  • Being organized
  • Having the desire to learn
  • Knowing how to use a computer or cell phone quickly and efficiently.
  • Basic customer service skills.

If you possess some of these qualities, you already have an important advantage to highlight in interviews.

How to create a resume without prior experience?

Your resume needs to showcase who you are and what you can offer. Here's how to organize it:

1. Personal data
Full name, phone number, email address, and city.

2. Professional objective
A simple, direct, and honest sentence. Example:
“"I am looking for a job opportunity to develop my skills and contribute to the team."”

3. Training
Please specify your level of education (completed high school, currently enrolled, technical school, etc.)

4. Courses and training
Include free courses, online training, workshops, and any other relevant learning.

5. Personal skills
List 4 or 5 qualities that define you at work. Example:
Responsible, communicative, agile, proactive, quick learner.

6. Additional information
You can state that you have flexible hours, are comfortable with technology, and are interested in growing within the company, among other things.

Even without experience, this well-made resume... It demonstrates preparedness and willingness.

Where to find opportunities for those who have never worked.

Some fields more frequently hire people without experience:

  • Shopping mall or street stores (salesperson, stock clerk, cashier)
  • Supermarkets (stocker, packer, general services assistant)
  • Restaurants, bakeries and snack bars (server, kitchen assistant)
  • Logistics (separator, packer, helper)
  • Call center (telemarketing agent)
  • Deliveries (on foot, by bicycle or motorcycle)
  • Internships and youth apprenticeship programs

The main platforms for finding these job openings are:

  • GupyCompanies like Assaí, O Boticário, and Renner advertise there.
  • InfoJobsMany operational and entry-level positions available.
  • Work in Brazil (SINE)Local job openings with simple registration.
  • LinkedInThere are openings for beginners as well.
  • Job groups on WhatsApp and Facebook

What should you say in an interview when asked about your experience?

This question will come up. The secret is... Don't lie, but show that you're ready. Here's an example:

“I haven’t yet had the chance to work formally, but I’m looking for my first opportunity. I learn easily, I’m committed, and I’m ready to give my best. I believe I can grow along with the company.”

Another option:

“Even without any formal experience, I helped my aunt in her business for a while. I served customers, took care of the store's organization, and learned a lot about responsibility and commitment.”

Be sincere and show willingness. This usually counts for a lot with those who are hiring.

How can you increase your chances of being called?

1. Take free online courses.
Platforms like SENAI, SEBRAE, Fundação Bradesco, and Google offer short courses with certificates. Include them on your resume.

2. Apply for jobs every day.
Sending out a resume and waiting won't solve anything. Apply for multiple jobs every day.

3. Be available for quick interviews.
Answer calls from unknown numbers and respond to messages quickly.

4. Wear appropriate clothing to interviews.
Even if it's simple, it's important to wear clean, neutral clothing that gives a good impression.

5. Practice your personal presentation.
Practice talking about yourself, your strengths, and what you're looking for in a job.

What if only temporary positions become available?

Accept it! Many start in temporary positions or as apprentices. What matters is... to start, To gain trust and demonstrate your value. Those who start on a temporary basis and excel are often hired permanently.

Final tip: the first chance opens doors.

Getting your first job can be difficult, but It's not impossible. And once you get in, everything changes. You gain experience, meet people, learn about the job market, and, over time, new doors will open.

Value yourself, prepare yourself, and don't give up. Everyone starts from scratch someday. The important thing is to be willing to learn, grow, and give your best—even if you're just beginning.

See also: Raízen: 476 job openings across the country

May 9, 2025