🛠️ How to Land Your First Job in Spokane — Even Without Work Experience
Starting your job hunt with no formal work experience can feel intimidating—but don’t worry, Spokane is full of opportunities for people just getting started. Whether you’re a high school student, recent grad, or someone re-entering the workforce, here’s a step-by-step guide to getting hired and building your path to success.
The Carl Maxey Center has frequent Future Ready events to help youngsters build skills that will help them land their first job.
🏪 1. Know Where to Look: Spokane-Friendly First Jobs
Many local employers are open to hiring first-timers, especially if you show up with a good attitude and a willingness to learn. Start by applying at:
Grocery stores: Rosauers, Yoke’s, Safeway, and Trader Joe’s often hire for entry-level roles like courtesy clerks or cashiers.
Fast food & coffee shops: McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Dutch Bros, and Starbucks are great places to gain customer service experience.
Retail: Target, Walmart, Old Navy, and Spokane Valley Mall stores regularly post entry-level job listings.
Locally owned businesses: Spokane’s small business scene is strong—don’t overlook independent cafes, garden centers, pet stores, or family-run shops that are open to training you.
👉 Tip: Walk into businesses during slow hours (mid-morning or mid-afternoon) and ask if they’re hiring. Dress presentably and bring a simple resume.
đź“„ 2. Build a Resume That Highlights Your Strengths
Even without formal job experience, your resume can still shine. Include:
Volunteer work: Church events, school cleanups, food drives, etc.
School projects or clubs: Especially those that involve leadership or teamwork.
Skills: Examples include time management, communication, using social media, or organizing events.
A short objective statement, like:
“Motivated and dependable individual seeking an opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a team.”
Need help writing it? The Spokane Public Library or WorkSource Spokane offers free workshops and resume-building help.
🗣️ 3. Practice Your 30-Second Pitch
When you apply in person, you’ll make a stronger impression if you confidently introduce yourself. Try something like:
“Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I’m looking for my first job and am eager to learn and contribute. I’m reliable, great with people, and excited to be part of a team. I’d love a chance to work here.”
That little introduction can help make you stand out—even if your resume is thin.
đź’Ľ 4. Use Local Resources
Spokane offers several free resources to help new job seekers:
WorkSource Spokane
They provide resume support, mock interviews, and job search coaching.
Carl Maxey Center (East Central Spokane)
Offers workforce and entrepreneurship programs for underrepresented communities.
Spokane Public Library
https://www.spokanelibrary.org
Hosts career prep events, computer skills training, and resume help.
👥 5. Network (Even If You’re New to It)
You don’t need a big LinkedIn profile to network. Just start with people you know:
Ask teachers, school counselors, coaches, or youth group leaders if they know places hiring.
Join local Facebook groups like:
Spokane Jobs
Spokane Buy Nothing
Spokane Area Teen Jobs
These groups often share job leads or gigs perfect for first-timers.
đź’ˇ 6. Show What You Can Do
When you don’t have experience, attitude is everything. Employers love team players who:
Show up on time
Communicate clearly
Learn quickly
Take initiative without being asked
If you can show that, you’re already ahead of most applicants—even some with experience.
🧹 7. Try Side Hustles and Gigs First
If a traditional job feels out of reach right now, start by offering services in your neighborhood:
Dog walking or pet sitting (use Rover or Nextdoor)
Lawn care, snow removal, or yard cleanup
Babysitting or elder care (check Care.com)
Helping neighbors with tech, tutoring, or errands
These gigs build your reputation, skills, and references—and they often lead to long-term work.
âś… Final Takeaway: Everyone Starts Somewhere
Remember, everyone’s first job is just a stepping stone. You don’t need to know everything—you just need to be open to learning and willing to put in the work. Spokane has plenty of employers who will give you that first shot if you show up ready to contribute.
đź“Ą Want More Help?
If you’re serious about landing your first job, download our free First Job Toolkit for Spokane (coming soon), or stop by The Carl Maxey Center to get hands-on help with applications and interviews.
Start your career today with the amazing tools in this 2-hour workshop!
The Future Ready: Mastering Resumes and Interviews workshop at the Carl Maxey Center is a powerful opportunity for young adults in Spokane to take the next step toward their professional goals. Held frequently, this free, hands-on event offers practical tools for crafting standout resumes and gaining confidence in interviews—skills that are essential for anyone entering the workforce. Participants will engage in mock interviews, receive personalized feedback, and leave with a polished resume they can use immediately. With transportation provided and a welcoming, supportive environment, this workshop is more than just a class—it’s a launchpad for future success.
Follow The Carl Maxey Center on Facebook for the most up to date event information.
