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Lack of Experience – Not an Obstacle? Expert Reveals What Modern Employers Are Looking For

Lack of Experience – Not an Obstacle? Expert Reveals What Modern Employers Are Looking For

April 8, 2025

There is constant and loud talk about the demand for specialists in engineering and technology fields – there is a massive shortage both in Lithuania and abroad. It is clear that graduates of these disciplines do not lack job offers, and some even start working while still studying. However, finding the first job when you have no experience, don't fully understand your capabilities, or don't even know where to begin can be quite a challenge. What should newcomers to the job market know?

What Matters to Modern Employers?

Young professionals, those still studying or recently graduated and looking for work or internships, often worry about the lack of experience and knowledge. Should they be concerned?

According to Dr. Milena Seržantė, Director of the Strategic Partnerships Center at Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (VILNIUS TECH), most employers understand that young people don’t have years of work experience, which is why they focus more on a person’s ability to learn, adapt quickly, and think strategically, rather than formal achievements.

“A recent survey involving over 400 managers and professionals revealed that 83% of them prioritize employees' ability to quickly adapt, analyze information, and understand the market. Today, the ability to work in teams, technological literacy, and initiative are highly valued,” said Dr. Seržantė.

Moreover, one of the most sought-after competencies today is engineering thinking. Regardless of the chosen field – whether it's mechanical engineering, IT, aviation engineering, or economics – a technical foundation is always valued. Even if someone is interested in social sciences, it's recommended to study at a technical university, where the studies are based on programming or engineering principles. Graduates from such universities stand out and integrate more easily into the modern job market, where interdisciplinary competencies are becoming increasingly important,” she added.

The Value of In-Person Interaction

Although almost all job or internship searches take place online today – job postings are browsed, CVs are sent, cover letters are written, tasks are completed, and even interviews are held remotely – the need for in-person contact has not disappeared. Its value is much greater than it may initially seem.

Of course, not everyone gets to pass the initial selection stages and meet an employer in person. The solution is events where representatives from various companies gather, aiming not only to present their activities and career opportunities but also to find motivated people with whom they could work in the future.

“For students, graduates, or job seekers, these events are an opportunity to hear directly from employers what they are looking for, how their selection processes work, and what values are important in their organizations. During the conversation, one can ask all the necessary questions and get immediate answers, and sometimes even leave their resume,” explained Dr. Seržantė.

“This is a very different form of connection than just browsing online – face-to-face communication creates trust and allows you to stand out. It also helps you see and understand what employers are out there, what kind of environment you'd like to work in, and what type of job would suit you,” she added.

The good news is that career days offer not just networking opportunities or a source of inspiration but also a chance to find a real job or internship. The most important thing is to take that first step, be active, and believe in yourself.

“If people wonder whether it’s worth participating in career days when they lack work experience, I assure you – it’s absolutely worth it. Employers are not looking for perfect candidates but individuals with potential who want to grow, learn, and contribute to real solutions,” said the expert.

Over 100 Companies and Organizations Under One Roof

Opportunities to build useful connections, meet potential employers, and even find the right job position will be available on April 10th during the GRAVITY Career Day at VILNIUS TECH, which is expected to attract around 10,000 people. An Open Day will also be held for high school students from all over Lithuania.

“GRAVITY stands out with its focus on technology and innovation, a strong connection to engineering industries, and a multi-layered program. It reflects VILNIUS TECH’s vision – bringing together future creators, science, talent, and leading organizations into one gravitational field,” Dr. Seržantė explained.

The event will feature an exhibition space where more than 100 companies and organizations from technology, engineering, creative industries, the public sector, and other fields will present their activities, career, and internship opportunities. At VILNIUS TECH faculty booths, participants will be able to explore study possibilities. Attendees can also enjoy various entertainment activities, inspiring lectures, and topical discussions moderated by famous humorist and TV host Justinas Jankevičius.

Representatives from companies like FL Technics, Ignitis Group, LTG Group, CyberCare, Wargaming, and others will introduce different professions, market trends, and share tips on how to successfully prepare for a career. One of the discussions will focus on international students and their career opportunities in Lithuania, which will be relevant and useful for everyone,” Dr. Seržantė added.

Expanded Lecture Series for Students and High School Students

This year’s GRAVITY program introduces an important and valuable innovation: a lecture series not only for university students but also for high school students. Other new additions include a digital badge challenge created specifically for Career Day and a VILNIUS TECH Alumni Club booth, where club members will discuss the career paths awaiting graduates after their studies.

Great Benefits for Business

Career Days are beneficial not only for students and high school students but also for businesses. For the first time this year, a closed roundtable discussion will be organized between the university and the companies – both general partners and other partners – to discuss key, current issues such as the skills gap, attracting talent from regions, joint projects, and long-term partnership visions.

“This will be an opportunity to discuss live the most important and current topics: from the skills gap to attracting talent from regions, joint projects, and long-term partnership visions,” Dr. Seržantė shares. “Additionally, participating in such an event helps shape an employer's image, strengthen recognition, and establish connections with potential employees.”

The expert emphasizes that GRAVITY is open to everyone – it’s not just for VILNIUS TECH students, high school students, and their parents, but also for students from other universities or colleges and anyone looking for the best career opportunities or considering their next step.

It’s worth visiting even for those who are still unsure about what they want to do in the future – Career Days help people orient themselves, see what opportunities await, and learn what engineers, technology specialists, analysts, and creators actually do.

“At the event, everyone will have the chance to approach company booths, speak with HR specialists or company managers, find out about open job or internship positions, and future plans. High school students will be able to explore different career paths, while parents will get assurance that technological professions are promising and valued in the job market,” said a VILNIUS TECH representative.