9 answers
paris
Student
Las Vegas, Nevada
1
Question
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First Job!
How do you Create a Resume if you have no experience with a job or a experience with anything in the workforce?
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9 answers
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1666
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Jerome nailed it!
Most first-jobs will be applied for on-line, will offer you the opportunity to upload a resume, but, it will be optional. Don't worry about it! Just work your way through the application carefully, reading all instructions.
If you do want to write a resume, I encourage you to research what is called a "functional" resume. Because, your resume is YOUR marketing tool, and there is no one "right" way to do this, and employers are not all looking for the same thing! Whatever you do, just make sure there are no misspelled words or other typos, as that will work against you. The format would look something like this:
Heading: your name (in large font), address, phone, email, other professional contact info. If your email is something "childish (Iskippedschool"), create a new one!
Career objective: as stated above in another response
Skills: Here you list 3-5 skills, and examples of how you acquired them. YOU decide which skills to highlight, based on the job announcement and your skillset. I like to have 5, and then re-prioritize them based on what the announcement seems to focus on as being most important
Teamwork
**3 years basketball team
**2 years cross-country team,
**4 years JROTC, competed in drills
**2 years band, tuba
Leadership
**rose to the rank of Command Sergeant Major in JROTC, responsible for all personnel.
**Team Captain in basketball, 1 year. Assisted in skill-development of other players.
Technological
**Created PowerPoint Presentations for teachers
**Data entry of 800 keystrokes per minute (you can find tests on line for this and typing)
**Typing 75 words per minute
**Advanced training in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access
Community Service
**volunteered to coach youth soccer, 3 years
**teach Sunday school, 2 years
Experience (if you have any, list it here, in reverse chronological order. )
**Cashier, Joe's Food to Go, Sacramento, CA May 2021 - August 2021
**Lifeguard, Sacremento YMCA, Sacramento, CA May 2020 - August 2020
Education
B.A., Communications, anticipated graduation date May, 2025. University of Texas at El Paso
**relevant coursework: Communicating with Diverse Audiences; Technological Advances in Communications
IF the position requires a degree, then move education up to right under the objective. otherwise, leave it at the bottom
I actually like the 2 column format as seen in example one on this site: https://resumegenius.com/blog/resume-help/functional-resume
I hope this makes sense, and is of help to you. I would encourage you to start working on finding things to add to your resume, by joining groups or volunteering. It really is hard to write the first one! As you gain work experience, keep revising the resume!
Most first-jobs will be applied for on-line, will offer you the opportunity to upload a resume, but, it will be optional. Don't worry about it! Just work your way through the application carefully, reading all instructions.
If you do want to write a resume, I encourage you to research what is called a "functional" resume. Because, your resume is YOUR marketing tool, and there is no one "right" way to do this, and employers are not all looking for the same thing! Whatever you do, just make sure there are no misspelled words or other typos, as that will work against you. The format would look something like this:
Heading: your name (in large font), address, phone, email, other professional contact info. If your email is something "childish (Iskippedschool"), create a new one!
Career objective: as stated above in another response
Skills: Here you list 3-5 skills, and examples of how you acquired them. YOU decide which skills to highlight, based on the job announcement and your skillset. I like to have 5, and then re-prioritize them based on what the announcement seems to focus on as being most important
Teamwork
**3 years basketball team
**2 years cross-country team,
**4 years JROTC, competed in drills
**2 years band, tuba
Leadership
**rose to the rank of Command Sergeant Major in JROTC, responsible for all personnel.
**Team Captain in basketball, 1 year. Assisted in skill-development of other players.
Technological
**Created PowerPoint Presentations for teachers
**Data entry of 800 keystrokes per minute (you can find tests on line for this and typing)
**Typing 75 words per minute
**Advanced training in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access
Community Service
**volunteered to coach youth soccer, 3 years
**teach Sunday school, 2 years
Experience (if you have any, list it here, in reverse chronological order. )
**Cashier, Joe's Food to Go, Sacramento, CA May 2021 - August 2021
**Lifeguard, Sacremento YMCA, Sacramento, CA May 2020 - August 2020
Education
B.A., Communications, anticipated graduation date May, 2025. University of Texas at El Paso
**relevant coursework: Communicating with Diverse Audiences; Technological Advances in Communications
IF the position requires a degree, then move education up to right under the objective. otherwise, leave it at the bottom
I actually like the 2 column format as seen in example one on this site: https://resumegenius.com/blog/resume-help/functional-resume
I hope this makes sense, and is of help to you. I would encourage you to start working on finding things to add to your resume, by joining groups or volunteering. It really is hard to write the first one! As you gain work experience, keep revising the resume!
Megan Midkiff
Sr Talent Acquisition Partner
9
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Houcine listed some great tips! There are also reputable resources online to inspire you. SHRM, LinkedIn, or Indeed (like the link below) will have meaningful tips for your search, so lean into those as well! Food for thought, I don't usually recommend paying for a resume-writing service because there are many strong, free resources online. Best of luck in the journey!
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/resume-young-professional
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/resume-young-professional
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Paris, I hope you are doing well. I will try and answer your question as best as I can. Constructing an engaging resume when you don't have prior work experience necessitates a tactical approach that highlights your skills, education, and any pertinent activities or accomplishments. Start with a succinct, well-formulated objective statement that underscores your career aspirations and readiness to contribute. Essentially, you should clarify the job you're seeking and your eagerness to contribute to the organization's success.
Here's what your resume should encompass:
1. First off, your resume should contain your full name, contact number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if you have one). If not, I recommend creating a LinkedIn profile right away.
2. Formulate a concise yet powerful objective statement that articulates your career goals and your enthusiasm for the opportunity. This should reflect the job you're seeking and your readiness to contribute to the organization's success. Include this information in your LinkedIn profile as well. For instance: "A driven and meticulous student aiming for an entry-level position to utilize strong communication and organizational skills in a professional setting."
3. Since you don't have any work experience, it's crucial to emphasize your educational background. This includes your current school, major, expected graduation date, and any relevant coursework. For instance: "Bachelor of Arts in [Your Major], [University Name], Expected Graduation Date: [Month, Year]." Relevant coursework might include Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Statistical Analysis, Data Science, and so on.
4. Take time to identify and list essential skills that align with the job you're applying for. This should include both hard and soft skills. For instance: Hard Skills might be Microsoft Office Suite, Data Entry, Research, while Soft Skills could be Communication, Time Management, Adaptability.
5. Highlight any extracurricular activities, clubs, or volunteer work that showcase transferable skills. This is particularly important if you've done any community service or held leadership roles. For instance: "Member of [Club Name], where I developed teamwork and leadership skills through collaborative projects." Include places where you've volunteered and the positions you held.
6. Emphasize any projects or coursework relevant to the position, focusing on skills acquired and accomplishments. For instance: "Completed a project on [specific topic] demonstrating research, analytical, and presentation skills."
7. If possible, include references from professors, mentors, or others who can attest to your character and abilities. For instance: "References available upon request."
Paris first and foremost, it's essential to customize your resume for each job application, highlighting elements of your background that match the specific requirements of the position. Even though you may lack direct work experience, showcasing your skills and achievements will convey your potential value to prospective employers.
Here's what your resume should encompass:
1. First off, your resume should contain your full name, contact number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if you have one). If not, I recommend creating a LinkedIn profile right away.
2. Formulate a concise yet powerful objective statement that articulates your career goals and your enthusiasm for the opportunity. This should reflect the job you're seeking and your readiness to contribute to the organization's success. Include this information in your LinkedIn profile as well. For instance: "A driven and meticulous student aiming for an entry-level position to utilize strong communication and organizational skills in a professional setting."
3. Since you don't have any work experience, it's crucial to emphasize your educational background. This includes your current school, major, expected graduation date, and any relevant coursework. For instance: "Bachelor of Arts in [Your Major], [University Name], Expected Graduation Date: [Month, Year]." Relevant coursework might include Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Statistical Analysis, Data Science, and so on.
4. Take time to identify and list essential skills that align with the job you're applying for. This should include both hard and soft skills. For instance: Hard Skills might be Microsoft Office Suite, Data Entry, Research, while Soft Skills could be Communication, Time Management, Adaptability.
5. Highlight any extracurricular activities, clubs, or volunteer work that showcase transferable skills. This is particularly important if you've done any community service or held leadership roles. For instance: "Member of [Club Name], where I developed teamwork and leadership skills through collaborative projects." Include places where you've volunteered and the positions you held.
6. Emphasize any projects or coursework relevant to the position, focusing on skills acquired and accomplishments. For instance: "Completed a project on [specific topic] demonstrating research, analytical, and presentation skills."
7. If possible, include references from professors, mentors, or others who can attest to your character and abilities. For instance: "References available upon request."
Paris first and foremost, it's essential to customize your resume for each job application, highlighting elements of your background that match the specific requirements of the position. Even though you may lack direct work experience, showcasing your skills and achievements will convey your potential value to prospective employers.
Sarah Beasley
Process Team Manager
6
Answers
Firestone, Colorado
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
Hello Paris,
The responses from everyone are truly inspiring, and I believe they can offer you some exceptional guidance. Currently, I'm assisting my son in crafting his first resume, even though he hasn't had a job yet. Our main focus is on the volunteer work he's been involved in and the skills he's acquired from those experiences. For instance, he's been a great help at the food pantry that I oversee. There, he's honing his ability to follow instructions, delegate tasks, and adhere to detailed procedures. His participation in school football and orchestra, including his roles in both junior varsity and varsity football teams and as the first chair cello, are noteworthy. These experiences illustrate his ability to juggle multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and still enjoy himself.
As for you, reflect on your strengths and passions. Consider what you've learned and how you can bring value to the company. If you can showcase your worth, your potential, and your capacity to learn and evolve, you'll undoubtedly be an outstanding candidate for your job!
The responses from everyone are truly inspiring, and I believe they can offer you some exceptional guidance. Currently, I'm assisting my son in crafting his first resume, even though he hasn't had a job yet. Our main focus is on the volunteer work he's been involved in and the skills he's acquired from those experiences. For instance, he's been a great help at the food pantry that I oversee. There, he's honing his ability to follow instructions, delegate tasks, and adhere to detailed procedures. His participation in school football and orchestra, including his roles in both junior varsity and varsity football teams and as the first chair cello, are noteworthy. These experiences illustrate his ability to juggle multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and still enjoy himself.
As for you, reflect on your strengths and passions. Consider what you've learned and how you can bring value to the company. If you can showcase your worth, your potential, and your capacity to learn and evolve, you'll undoubtedly be an outstanding candidate for your job!
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
500
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
The best thing to do is to use what you have available. If you don't have actual work experience, you can focus on sharing more of who you are, class you have good grades in and possibly listing any volunteer or community experience you may have.
References from teachers may be helpful at this point as well.
Truthfully, with most entry level jobs, you will be able to submit an application online and a resume may not be as important,
Good luck!
References from teachers may be helpful at this point as well.
Truthfully, with most entry level jobs, you will be able to submit an application online and a resume may not be as important,
Good luck!
Houcine Lakhchach
Career Development Specialist | U.S Department exchange Alumnus | EFL/ESL trainer | Program manager
139
Answers
Kenitra, Gharb-Chrarda-Beni Hssen, Morocco
Updated
Houcine’s Answer
Hi Paris,
Creating a resume for your first job when you have no prior work experience involves emphasizing your skills, education, and any relevant activities or achievements. Start with a concise and well-organized resume format, including sections for your contact information, objective or summary, education, skills, and any extracurricular activities or volunteer work. In the skills section, highlight soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving that are valuable in any work environment. Emphasize your educational achievements, mentioning any coursework or projects that showcase your abilities. If you have participated in volunteer activities, clubs, or organizations, include them to demonstrate your commitment and initiative. Though lacking direct work experience, focus on showcasing your potential, eagerness to learn, and transferable skills that make you a valuable candidate for your first job.
Creating a resume for your first job when you have no prior work experience involves emphasizing your skills, education, and any relevant activities or achievements. Start with a concise and well-organized resume format, including sections for your contact information, objective or summary, education, skills, and any extracurricular activities or volunteer work. In the skills section, highlight soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving that are valuable in any work environment. Emphasize your educational achievements, mentioning any coursework or projects that showcase your abilities. If you have participated in volunteer activities, clubs, or organizations, include them to demonstrate your commitment and initiative. Though lacking direct work experience, focus on showcasing your potential, eagerness to learn, and transferable skills that make you a valuable candidate for your first job.
chuck m
customer service
2
Answers
Dothan, Alabama
Updated
chuck’s Answer
Concentrate on showcasing your abilities and talents. Highlight your academic achievements, involvement in volunteer work, and any sports activities. Demonstrate your readiness to work hard, learn, and understand that you might need to start from scratch.
Alla Gonzalez
16
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Alla’s Answer
Hi Paris! Every person replying to your question here has been in your shoes at some point. I remember writing my first resume when I just finished school so I totally understand where you are coming from.
While you may not have years of work history just yet, think about what you have already achieved and what you bring to the table. You may want to list your educational background and any relevant courses or extracurriculars that are in line with the job you are applying for.
Make an inventory of what you are good at and skills you have developed. Then review the job description and see what skills are required, and find an overlap with your personal skills inventory.
One good advice may be to not send out the same resume to different employers. Make sure you adjust it based on the specificities of each employer you are reaching out to.
Wishing you all the best on your job search!
While you may not have years of work history just yet, think about what you have already achieved and what you bring to the table. You may want to list your educational background and any relevant courses or extracurriculars that are in line with the job you are applying for.
Make an inventory of what you are good at and skills you have developed. Then review the job description and see what skills are required, and find an overlap with your personal skills inventory.
One good advice may be to not send out the same resume to different employers. Make sure you adjust it based on the specificities of each employer you are reaching out to.
Wishing you all the best on your job search!
Camryn Maginel
Financial Analyst
5
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
Camryn’s Answer
Include various groups you participated in while in school in your resume. Ensure that you list pertinent skills for the job you're applying for, but only if you're capable of discussing these skills in detail. Incorporating volunteer work is also beneficial as it demonstrates a variety of abilities, and it's an experience that anyone can acquire. For the visual appeal of your resume, numerous templates are available online. I've also heard that chat gpt can assist in structuring your resume effectively.