Although in most cases there is little or no monetary compensation, it is often excellent experience and can possibly lead to employment with a firm that is seeking that particular experience or appreciates your work ethic.

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She said her main barrier when finding work and apprenticeships was her lack of experience and she hoped this course will help her to gain employment at the end of it.

BBC: Boot camp

"It must feel very good for exporting businesses to see their numbers go up, " said Penrod, who noted that coastal and manufacturing cities could experience gains in employment.

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The experience of sectoral employment programs can -- and should -- help shape that investment.

CNN: Commentary: Jobs going begging in some fields

Mr Allen stresses the full "Exeter student experience", which mixes academic study with employment preparation and cultural and sports opportunities, and acknowledges that too much growth in numbers could undermine it.

BBC: University changes: Threat or opportunity?

In addition to showcasing your experience and skills, your cover letter can answer any questions about an employment gap that a hiring manager might have.

CNN: Getting a job after extended time off

Youth employment is the lowest since the 1950s, and for the first time more unemployed people have college experience than not.

WSJ: Why Getting an M.B.A. Isn't Worth It

Her next stop was Silicon Valley, where she arrived with no job and practically no tech experience, after the tech bubble had burst, and spent nearly a year looking for employment.

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