Looking for Work at 18? Everyone Has to Start Somewhere!

Looking for your first job in Tameside, Hyde, Stockport or Cheshire? We know getting started isn’t always easy, especially when employers are asking for previous experience.

It’s a question we hear regularly: “How am I supposed to gain experience if nobody will give me a job?”

And it’s a fair question!

At Bennett Staff, we’ve been helping local people find work since 1958, and we understand that everyone has to start somewhere.

While our clients currently require candidates to be aged 18 or over with some relevant work experience, there are plenty of ways to start building your skills and preparing for employment.

Why Do Employers Ask for Experience?

Many of the businesses we recruit for need people who can join their teams and settle into a working environment quickly.

This is particularly important for temporary roles, where employers may need additional staff at short notice.

But having experience doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve worked in the same industry for years.

Skills such as teamwork, reliability, communication and timekeeping can all be valuable.

It’s not always about how much experience you have, but what you’ve learned from it.

How Can You Gain Experience?

If you’re just starting your career, there are several ways to develop skills that could help you secure future employment.

Part-time work: Retail, hospitality and other entry-level roles can help you develop communication, teamwork and customer service skills.
Apprenticeships: Earn while you learn and gain practical experience alongside a recognised qualification.
Volunteering: Build confidence, meet new people and demonstrate your willingness to work.
Work placements: Gain experience in a professional environment and discover which industries interest you.
College courses: Develop practical skills and explore career opportunities through local colleges and training providers.

Remember, every experience counts, even if it isn’t directly related to the job you’d eventually like to do.

What If You’re Under 18?

In England, young people must remain in education or training until their 18th birthday.

This could mean staying in full-time education, starting an apprenticeship or combining employment or volunteering with part-time education or training.

At Bennett Staff, we don’t currently offer apprenticeships, and our client vacancies require candidates to be aged 18 or over.

If you’re looking for an apprenticeship or your first opportunity to gain experience, we’d recommend contacting local colleges, training providers or employers directly.

You can also explore opportunities through the GOV.UK Apprenticeship Service.

Ready to Explore Temporary Work?

Once you’re 18 or over and have gained some relevant experience, temporary work could be a great way to take your next step.

At Bennett Staff, we recruit for opportunities across:

Warehouse and distribution
Industrial and manufacturing
Commercial and office support
Catering and hospitality

Although we don’t recruit for retail positions, experience gained in retail can provide transferable skills for other industries.

Our experienced consultants understand the local job market and work with employers across Hyde, Tameside, Stockport, Cheshire and Greater Manchester.

We value candidates who are reliable, motivated and willing to learn and develop their skills.