Recent graduates know the headache of stumbling across a dream job, only to find that it calls for a number of years of experience. Many think of “years of experience” in terms of a titled position, but the actual parameters of “experience” exceed far past the limits of a formal, paying job.

Wondering how to gain work experience … without formal work experience? You can still develop the key skills many employers search for in potential team members through a variety of channels – from donating your time to connecting with current professionals.

1. Give back.

Volunteering holds several benefits in addition to mere experience. It also develops social skills like collaboration and communication, and the sense of accomplishment associated with helping others may help you feel more fulfilled in your life and future goals. Volunteering plugs you into your community, increasing social interaction with those who have common interests and goals (hello, networking!). Experts even report that volunteering can improve mental and physical health. Find a local charity whose mission you support, and volunteer!

2. Lead your peers.

Your hobbies and interests may actually land you a job! Whether you serve as captain of your school’s soccer team or president of the chess club, noting your involvement in different organizations demonstrates to employers that you’re well-rounded and able to work well with a team. These roles develop decision-making, conflict management, and critical-thinking skills, which are qualities that can make you an ideal candidate for jobs in a variety of fields.

3. Shadow a professional.

Job shadowing allows you to follow and observe a professional in their environment on a normal workday. This is a great chance to ask questions about a specific career or receive advice from people who have been in your shoes. And as a bonus, shadowing is a built-in opportunity to expand your professional network with people who actually work in the field. Try shooting current professionals a message on LinkedIn and asking if they have any shadowing opportunities (or know someone who might).

4. Join an organization.

Professional organizations, such as the Public Relations Society of America or the National Association of Sales Professionals, usually offer resources such as online forums, publications, and workshops that can help you stay updated on industry trends and best practices. Some groups even provide mentorship programs allowing younger, less-experienced individuals to learn from seasoned professionals. Way to be a lifelong learner (another skill employers seek)!

5. Work on a personal project.

A “personal project” can take on many forms: freelance design work, coding in your spare time, or managing a blog. When you work on a project, you often need to learn new skills similar to what you would experience in a professional work environment. Taking the initiative to work on a project demonstrates motivation, passion, and a drive to learn and succeed. And, these projects serve as tangible evidence of your skills and abilities, which you can display in your portfolio or resume.

So, while the demand for experience may seem daunting, the path to finding it is diverse and accessible to those who are willing to seize opportunities and invest in their personal and professional development. These experiences not only enhance your skill set but also foster growth, promote networking opportunities, and demonstrate initiative and drive.

And even if you aren’t looking to add to your years of experience, it never hurts to pursue additional learning opportunities and expand your network.

Looking to gain more experience with Reynolds? Visit our Careers site to browse available job opportunities.