It can be discouraging to think, ‘I have no skills or talents.’ But the good news is that you probably have more skills than you think. Even better, there are plenty of jobs out there that require a relatively minimal skill level. With that, there is definitely a job out there for you, no matter where your skills stand.
Ready to learn more about job opportunities that are possible with no specific skills? Here’s a list of some great options. But I’ll cover some examples of functional skills that you can put to use.
I have no skills or talents: Spoiler alert, you do!
If you don’t possess a specialized skill set, then it is all too easy to believe that you have no skills. But in most cases, that is entirely untrue! I would be willing to bet that you have at least one skill that could help you land a job today.
Functional skills examples
Let's talk about Yup, these are functional skills examples. A few skills in your toolbox that you might have overlooked include:
- Attention to detail
- The ability to drive a car
- Managing your time well
- Keeping a clean space
- Knowing how to cook
- Knowing how to communicate
- Caring for another life, such as your children or pets
Consider that these are just a few functional skills examples to help you realize how many skills you likely have. The simple fact of life is that you accumulate skills as you move through it. Although you might not have honed a highly specialized skill in a competitive field, that doesn’t mean you don’t possess any skills at all.
In fact, even just a willingness to learn is a skill in itself. So, take a minute to recognize the skills you already have. From there, go through the list below to find a job that suits your needs and abilities.
Jobs you can land even if you think "I have no skills"
If you believe in the idea that ‘I have no skills or talents,’ it can be incredibly difficult to embark on a job search. But hopefully, you’ve realized by now that you have at least one skill you can put to the test. Even if that skill is a willingness to work hard and learn on the job.
Here are some jobs that you might be able to land with a minimal skill set. But it is worth pointing out that every job on this list is important. And with that, there are some minimal skills involved along with a healthy dose of positivity.
1. Customer service representative
If you are kind and attentive, then becoming a customer service representative could be the right fit. Many companies require you to go through mandatory training on their particular products. But in general, you’ll need to have a positive attitude and a willingness to help the customer on the other end of the line.
The amount you can earn per hour will vary based on the company. But you can expect to find opportunities that range from $16 to $20 per hour.
Rideshare drivers help passengers get around town. You’ll need to have your own vehicle. But if you do, these ridesharing opportunities can be worthwhile.In fact, the annual salary for a rideshare driver is $31,682! You can get started with companies such as Uber or Lyft.
Take some time to consider the insurance requirements you might encounter as a rideshare driver. You’ll want to ensure that the costs are worth the rewards in your particular location.
3. Retail sales associate
Working in retail is one of those jobs where even if you don't have any skills you can learn on the job. You can work in different areas of retail including product and service business. All you need is to be helpful, have patience, and have a willingness to learn.
It's also not uncommon to get an employee discount when you work in retail but you want to make sure you build your spending into your budget!
Pay for jobs in retail average $11 dollars an hour plus any commission if your sales are commission-based.
4. Home health aid
A home health aid helps elderly people out around the house with day-to-day tasks. Although you may need to earn a certification to be a home health aide, the biggest requirement is a caring heart and willingness to pitch in.
The amount you can earn will vary based on your location. But you should expect to earn between $10 to $13 per hour.
5. Administrative assistant
If you have a knack for organizing your life, you would make a great administrative assistant. In this job, you would handle paperwork, scheduling, phone calls, and more. Depending on the company, you may have some other task assignments as well.
You can make around $14 per hour as an administrative assistant.
6. Dog walker
As a dog walker, you’ll need to be honest and reliable. Plus, be comfortable working with dogs. You can start this gig through word-of-mouth referrals from friends and family. Or you can decide to take your services to a wider audience through a platform like Rover.
Not only will you have a fun time walking fido, but you can average about $14 an hour with this gig!
7. Data entry clerk
As a data entry clerk, your job is to process data or enter/update data in a computer system. This is another job where you can learn on a job even if you have no data entry skills. The average data entry pay is $15.73.
Wondering where to find data entry positions? Examples include shipping companies like UPS and Fedex or health insurance companies like United Healthcare and Humana.
8. Baby sitter/child minder
Baby sitters have an essential responsibility of successfully keeping children happy and safe in the absence of their parents.Although the gig is loaded with a big responsibility, you likely have all the skills you need to be successful.
You’ll need to be reliable, honest, and able to keep a watchful eye on your charges. It also helps if you can provide enough entertainment that the kids enjoy their time with you.Check out places like Care.com to find potential opportunities. According to Care.com, the average nanny makes about $15 an hour.
9. Cleaning homes
Cleaning homes is not exactly a glamorous job. But if you have successfully kept your own living space relatively clear, then chances are you know exactly how to give a space a deep clean.
People want to hire honest and reliable home cleaners that offer a thorough service. If you are willing to go the extra mile, you’ll have no problems finding referral work.The average salary for a house cleaner is about $11.25 an hour.
10. Warehouse loader
If you are reasonable in shape with some upper body strength, then working on a loading dock could be the right fit. Although these jobs are often extremely labor-intensive, many companies are in search of extra hands throughout the year.According to Salary.com, you can earn anywhere from $15 to $19 per hour.
11. Food delivery
Food delivery options have boomed in recent years. If you are willing to hustle, delivering food is a flexible side hustle with minimal skills required. You might not even need a car if you live in an area where you can deliver food on foot or via bike.
A few options to consider include UberEats and DoorDash. If you are going to drive your car, take a minute to make sure that the numbers work out in your favor after gas and insurance.
12. Laborer
Construction laborers help out around construction sites wherever they are needed. Some jobs may require them to tend to the equipment such as compressors, pumps, generators, and more. Although these jobs come with long and strenuous hours, you can expect to earn between $14 to $19 per hour.
13. Doorman or woman
A doorman -- or doorwoman-- is responsible for opening doors, accepting deliveries, and screening unexpected visitors. Depending on the building, you might have other responsibilities such as carrying luggage or hailing taxis.
As a doorman, you can expect to earn an average of $14.55 per hour. However, it is not unexpected to receive substantial tips throughout the day from satisfied customers.
Skills to learn to build or improve your skillset
Whether you choose to apply to one of the jobs on this list or decide to branch out, there are some skills that will help you no matter what. Here is a quick look at some other functional skills examples that will help your job hunt.
Computer basics
In this modern age, so many jobs require at least some component of computer-based work. It can be a dealbreaker for some employers if you don’t have any computer skills to report. With that, it is worthwhile to learn how to navigate your computer successfully.
If you aren’t sure where to get started, consider taking a basic computer class through Udemy. Or, if you need some in-person help, check out your local library. Many libraries have computers with a librarian that may be willing to answer your questions.
Build communication skills
All jobs require communication skills of some kind. Although some jobs require more communication than others, you can stand out anywhere with effective communication skills.
Udemy and LinkedIn offer a wealth of resources to help you master your communication skills.
Be willing to learn
One of the most surprising functional skills examples is a willingness to learn. In every job, you’ll need to be willing to learn new things to execute the tasks exceptionally well.
If you are willing to learn, then you have a great shot of excelling in a particular job. From there, you can continue to build your skills throughout your career’s journey.
Keep your finances in mind
Before you dive into any job, understanding the basics of your personal finances can help you stay on track. If you understand what you need to earn in order to live the life you desire, then you’ll know what salary will work for you. Plus, you can set up a budget to help you make the most of your newfound income.
Stop telling yourself you have no skills and find a job you love!
It can be tempting to believe the lie that ‘I have no skills or talents.’ But hopefully, you’ve realized that you do have some skills to offer on a job search. Plus, you might be willing to learn even more skills to open the door to new opportunities.Don’t be afraid to try new things as you expand your job search.
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