Hello Mateusz,

Thanks for much for reaching out to Cancer and Careers! It sounds like you've been through quite a whirlwind the past few years, but what an incredible accomplishment to finish up college despite all of the external and personal obstacles!

It can certainly feel stressful to not have what you (and potential employers) may consider the appropriate experience to get started in the field but there are certainly ways to combat the lack of experience and spin it in your favor. I am going to pass your message along to one of our career coaches who can shed some light on the best way to approach a lack of experience. 

In the meantime, I'd recommend taking a look at some of our resources on our website that may give you a sesnse of some more creative approaches to creating a narrative that will work for you, and taking into account disclosure to a new employer:

• Managing Disclosure When Looking for a Job


• It sounds like you'd benefit from networking and connecting with some people in the field - check out our articles on Networking  and also our upcoming May webinar Networking: Unlocking New Opportunities
  


• Take a look at some of our job searching resources such as guidance on Resumes & Cover Letters, best practices for Interviewing, and our free Resume Review Service
  

I hope some of the above resources prove useful, and keep an eye out for a response for one of our career coaches! Feel free to reach out to cancerandcareers@cew.org to set up a time to chat if you have any further questions or would like any additional resources.

Sincerely,

Nicole Jarvis, LMSW

Assistant Director of Programs

Cancer and Careers

Hello Mateusz,

Firstly, congratulations on overcoming such a significant challenge and graduating from college! Your journey is truly inspiring, and your resilience will undoubtedly be an asset as you navigate your career path.

Considering your unique circumstances and the deviation from a traditional career trajectory, it's essential to approach your job search strategically. Here are some personalized suggestions to help you make contact with sales reps and enhance your professional profile.

Craft a Compelling Story: Your journey is a powerful narrative. Consider integrating your experience with overcoming cancer into your personal story. Emphasize the qualities it has developed in you—such as resilience, determination, and adaptability—that are highly valued in the professional world, especially in Sales.

Networking Strategies: Since you feel you lack personal connections, start by attending industry-related events, webinars, and conferences. Many are virtual these days.  Having recently graduated, you might not be on LinkedIn yet.  If not, LinkedIn is a valuable platform for connecting with sales professionals. Craft a genuine and concise message explaining your background and expressing your interest in their field. Personalize your connection requests to make them stand out.

Transferable Skills: Highlight the transferable skills you gained during your studies and internship at the COVID testing company. Your major might not align directly with sales, but skills like research, analysis, communication, and international policy knowledge are transferable and valuable in various roles, including sales.

Resume Framing: While you were on the receiving end of medical devices during your hospital stay, emphasize any relevant skills or insights you gained. Focus on areas like patient communication, empathy, and understanding of the healthcare industry. It might not be traditional experience, but it showcases your adaptability and a unique perspective.

Skills-Based Resume: Consider using a skills-based resume format to draw attention to your abilities rather than a strict chronological order. Highlight accomplishments and skills relevant to the roles you're targeting.

Online Presence: Ensure your LinkedIn profile is comprehensive and reflects your personal brand. Share posts or articles related to the industries you are interested in to demonstrate your knowledge and passion.  Be careful not to get too personal there though, that is completely up to you and your comfort level, but many do refrain from getting too personal on LinkedIn.

Informational Interviews: Request informational interviews with professionals in the sales field. Seek advice, learn more about the industry, and inquire about potential opportunities. People are often willing to help when they see genuine interest and effort.

Remember, the key is to showcase your unique strengths and demonstrate how your diverse background can contribute to the sales profession. Your journey has equipped you with qualities that go beyond what's found on a traditional resume.

Best of luck in your job search, Mateusz!

-Brandon