It can be difficult (and feel nearly impossible) to find a job when you have little to no experience. I mean, how are you even supposed to create a resume with nothing to put on it? But what you don’t realize is that as teens you have built up lots of skills that hiring managers are looking for. So here are some helpful tips for writing a resume for the first time.
Part 1: Identify Yourself
You’ll always start your resume off by identifying yourself. Make sure that your name is prominent, but not overwhelming on the page. Always include your full name, address, phone number, and email address.
Part 2: Summary or Objective
This part is my least favorite. Obviously your objective is to get a job, right? Really the best thing to put here is who you are and what you’re looking for. You’re aiming to impress.
Ex: Motivated student who demonstrates strong work ethic and creative ability. Seeking to apply my graphic design skills and artistic drive as a summer intern at your company.
Part 3: Education
As a student or recent graduate, this is where you’ll want to shine. Make sure to list any schools you have attended in reverse order – most recent first.
List classes that might interest the employer, anything that will show off your communication, teamwork, and business skills is especially helpful but never count out creativity too.
Were you in school clubs or groups? Did you do a cool project, senior capstone, participate in community events, or volunteer at your local library? Include all the things!
Tips and Tricks:
- Create a professional email account. Don’t use the one you’ve had since you were twelve that says “Sassywitch8813.” (This may have been my email address for WAY too long).
- Avoid abbreviations. To you GHS means Greenwood High School, but to someone else it might mean Greywolf Hippopotamus Society!
- Make sure your social media is clean or set to private. Employers WILL look you up.
- If you can, fill out the application directly on the company’s website. Scroll to the bottom and find “Careers,” “Employment,” or something similar.
- Many employers will immediately disregard a resume with spelling or typing errors, so make sure you have someone else read through your resume before you submit it – that person could even be your favorite librarian!
Looking for more resources or resume ideas? Make sure to visit our online database Lynda.com. All you need is a library card!
