Think you need years of experience to land a job? Think again. While some careers demand degrees and lengthy resumes, plenty of employers just want someone who’s dependable, willing to learn, and ready to start. Whether you’re fresh out of school, changing fields, or reentering the workforce, there are real jobs out there that don’t care about your past experience. From physical work to remote gigs, here are 19 legit options that’ll give you a chance—even if your resume’s a little thin.
1. Retail Sales Associate
Stepping into retail is one of the fastest ways to land a job when you have no experience. Clothing stores, tech shops, and even home goods retailers are often more focused on your attitude than your past work history. If you’re friendly, punctual, and can handle being on your feet, you’re already a good fit. Your main responsibilities will include greeting customers, managing stock, handling transactions, and maintaining the store’s appearance. Most employers provide on-the-job training that covers point-of-sale systems, customer interaction, and daily procedures. Retail jobs also build soft skills you’ll use anywhere—like communication, patience, and teamwork. Some stores even promote from within, giving you a path to management over time. It’s an ideal entry point for people looking to grow into corporate roles later.
2. Delivery Driver
Got a valid driver’s license and a smartphone? That’s usually enough to start earning. Delivery jobs have exploded in recent years thanks to apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, Mr D, and Amazon Flex. You don’t need experience—just a clean record, decent navigation skills, and a reliable vehicle. Expect to pick up packages, groceries, or meals and get them to the right place on time. Most platforms allow flexible scheduling, so you can work mornings, evenings, or weekends depending on what suits you best. It’s a good fit if you’re independent and don’t want a boss breathing down your neck. And depending on tips, bonuses, and location, some drivers earn more than entry-level office workers.
3. Warehouse Worker
Warehouses are constantly looking for reliable people to help them keep up with demand. You don’t need to have worked in logistics before—many of these roles are built for beginners. Whether it’s packing, sorting, loading, or scanning, the systems are easy to learn with basic training. The work can be physical, but if you’re okay with being on your feet and moving around, the pay often reflects the effort. Some warehouse positions come with health benefits and overtime opportunities, and many operate 24/7, giving you shift flexibility. Large companies like Amazon, Takealot, and DHL frequently onboard new workers with no prior background in the field. You just need to show up and be willing to learn.
4. Data Entry Clerk
If you’re fast on a keyboard and detail-oriented, data entry is a great way to break into office work—no degree or experience required. Most companies want someone who can follow instructions, enter information quickly, and avoid typos. These roles are often remote or hybrid, especially in today’s digital economy. You might work with spreadsheets, customer records, or inventory logs. Software like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets is commonly used, but you’ll be trained if you’re unfamiliar. It’s repetitive but ideal for people who prefer quiet, focused tasks over talking to customers. Plus, it opens the door to more advanced admin or analyst positions down the line.
5. House Cleaner
This job is all about being reliable, detail-oriented, and trustworthy. You don’t need to know how to clean “professionally”—most companies or clients will show you their preferred methods and supply the tools. Many house cleaning roles are open to beginners who are willing to learn and show up on time. Cleaning homes involves dusting, vacuuming, wiping surfaces, changing linens, and sometimes organizing. If you work for a company, they may send you to several homes in a day. If you freelance, you can set your own schedule and rates. It’s honest work with immediate results—you can see your progress as you go. Some cleaners even turn it into a full-time business with recurring clients and referrals.
6. Customer Service Representative
You don’t need a background in call centers or support to start in customer service. Many companies provide paid training to teach you how to handle calls, emails, or live chats. What they’re really looking for is someone with a calm voice, basic typing skills, and a friendly attitude. You’ll be the first point of contact for customers who need help with products, services, or troubleshooting issues. This role can be done remotely or in an office depending on the company. It’s a great fit for people who enjoy helping others and can keep cool under pressure. Over time, customer service work can lead to more specialized roles like tech support, account management, or quality assurance.
7. Barista
Coffee shops often value personality and reliability over experience. If you can smile under pressure, show up on time, and learn fast, you’re already most of the way there. Baristas learn on the job—how to steam milk, pour espresso, and prep drinks just the way customers like them. You’ll also keep the space clean, handle payments, and memorize drink orders. Many shops care deeply about atmosphere, so being personable and polite matters just as much as pulling a perfect shot. Shifts are often flexible, and the tips can be great in busy areas. Over time, you can move into shift supervisor or even café manager roles.
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8. Administrative Assistant
You don’t need office experience to become an admin assistant—just solid organizational skills, good email etiquette, and a willingness to multitask. Most of the job involves scheduling meetings, answering calls, filing paperwork, and supporting team members with basic tasks. Training is usually provided, especially on company-specific software like calendars or CRM systems. You’ll become the go-to person for small but important details, which makes this a great way to learn how businesses function. If you’re dependable and detail-oriented, you can grow into roles like executive assistant or office manager later on. It’s also a great stepping-stone into other professional fields.
9. Security Guard
Security jobs are often available to applicants without prior experience, especially for entry-level posts in malls, offices, or construction sites. The main requirements are a clean background, strong attention to detail, and the ability to stay alert during long shifts. Most companies will train you or even sponsor your security certification if one is needed. You’ll monitor entrances, walk through assigned areas, and respond to any incidents or alarms. It’s a good fit for people who are responsible, observant, and don’t mind working overnight or alone. Some positions include opportunities to move into supervisory or corporate security roles with time and performance.
10. Landscaper
Landscaping companies often hire based on work ethic, not background. If you’re physically able, punctual, and okay with working outside in various weather, you can start immediately. Tasks may include mowing lawns, planting flowers, trimming bushes, and using basic tools like leaf blowers or hedge trimmers. You’ll often be paired with experienced team members who show you the ropes as you go. The job can be physically demanding, but it’s satisfying to see a yard transform because of your work. Some companies also offer winter work like snow removal, making this a stable job year-round. Over time, you can learn more advanced skills like irrigation or hardscaping.
11. Restaurant Server
You don’t need years of hospitality experience to start waiting tables. Many restaurants are happy to train people who are upbeat, reliable, and able to handle a fast-paced environment. As a server, you’ll take orders, deliver food, and make sure guests have a great dining experience. You’ll also learn the menu inside and out, handle payments, and work as part of a team with the kitchen and other staff. The role requires multitasking, memory, and grace under pressure—especially during busy hours. But the tips can be excellent, especially at popular spots or higher-end establishments. This job also teaches you valuable customer service skills that translate well into many other industries.
2. Construction Laborer
If you’re looking for a job where you can start earning fast and don’t mind physical labor, construction is wide open to beginners. Companies often hire laborers without experience as long as you can show up on time, follow directions, and work hard. Tasks might include moving materials, setting up equipment, digging, or cleaning up job sites. You’ll work alongside skilled tradespeople and get real-world exposure to how buildings and infrastructure come together. Safety training is usually provided, and some employers will help you get certifications over time. If you stick with it, you can move up to more specialized roles like carpentry, plumbing, or heavy machinery operation.
13. Personal Care Aide
Helping others with basic daily needs doesn’t require a long resume—it just takes compassion, reliability, and a strong sense of responsibility. As a personal care aide, you might assist elderly or disabled clients with bathing, eating, dressing, or simply keeping them company. Many states or agencies provide free training, and no prior experience is required for most entry-level roles. Some positions are in private homes, while others are in assisted living facilities. This job is ideal for someone who wants meaningful work and can build trust with clients over time. It can also be a pathway to becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) or moving into healthcare support roles.
14. Dog Walker or Pet Sitter
If you love animals and can stick to a schedule, you’ve already got what it takes to start walking dogs or pet sitting. No formal training or experience is usually required—just dependability, patience, and a warm personality. Apps like Rover, PetBacker, or even local neighborhood boards are great places to start looking for clients. Jobs range from quick walks during the workday to overnight stays or weekend check-ins. Owners often care more about trust than a polished resume, so glowing reviews and word-of-mouth referrals are your best asset. If you build a solid client base, this side hustle can turn into a full-time job with flexible hours.
15. Hotel Housekeeper
Hotels are always looking for reliable people to keep their rooms clean and ready for guests—and they’re often willing to hire people with no prior housekeeping experience. As long as you’re detail-oriented, physically able, and able to work independently, you’ll pick up the rest on the job. Duties include changing linens, scrubbing bathrooms, dusting furniture, vacuuming carpets, and restocking supplies. You’ll learn how to meet cleanliness standards, work quickly without sacrificing quality, and sometimes deal with guests directly. This job is ideal for people who like to stay active and enjoy working behind the scenes. Some hotel chains also offer employee perks or discounts for travel.
16. Babysitter or Nanny
You don’t need a childcare degree to be trusted with kids—what parents want most is someone who’s dependable, caring, and attentive. Babysitting jobs can start as early as high school with word-of-mouth referrals, neighborhood groups, or family friends. As a babysitter or nanny, your duties might include preparing snacks, helping with homework, organizing activities, or getting children ready for bed. Some parents will train you on household routines, and CPR certification can help but often isn’t required upfront. Trust builds quickly if you’re good with kids, and many families become long-term clients. It’s flexible, pays well by the hour, and gives you the chance to make a real difference in a child’s daily life.
17. Grocery Store Clerk
Working in a grocery store doesn’t require retail experience—just a willingness to work, follow procedures, and keep a good attitude under pressure. As a clerk, you might stock shelves, bag groceries, clean aisles, manage inventory, or work a checkout counter. Training is usually short and simple, and your first few shifts will focus on shadowing more experienced staff. These jobs often come with stable schedules, union protections, and opportunities for promotion into departments like bakery, deli, or customer service. If you’re friendly and helpful, customers notice—and so do managers. It’s a solid option for students, part-timers, or anyone reentering the workforce.
18. Telemarketer
This might not be the most glamorous job, but telemarketing hires fast and trains from scratch. Companies are always looking for people who can follow a script, sound confident on the phone, and handle rejection without taking it personally. You’ll usually be calling potential customers to pitch a product, service, or conduct surveys. Most training happens during your first week, where you’ll learn about compliance rules, objection handling, and call software. The job sharpens communication and persuasion skills that are useful in sales, marketing, or even public relations. If you’re outgoing and motivated by commission or bonuses, you might find it surprisingly rewarding.
19. Apprentice or Trainee Roles
If you’re ready to commit to a long-term career but don’t have qualifications yet, apprenticeships are one of the smartest paths to take. Many trades—like plumbing, electrical work, welding, and HVAC—hire people with no prior experience and train them while paying a wage. These programs are hands-on and often run by unions or companies that will support your development over several years. You’ll start by assisting skilled professionals and gradually take on more complex tasks. Not only do you avoid student debt, but you also build a career with solid earning potential. Apprenticeships are ideal for people who learn by doing and want a job that leads somewhere stable.