How to Write Your First Resume

You can craft an impressive resume without much work experience.

Are you looking for your first job? Perhaps you don't know what to write on your resume. Don't panic. With a little skill, you can create a profile that showcases you despite your lack of work experience.

Instructions

1. Type your name, address, phone number and e-mail address at the top of your resume.

2. Type the position you're interested in immediately below in bold, italicized or slightly larger letters.

3. Explain your objective for applying for your job of choice. This should include the reason you believe you are a good candidate for the position.

4. List the volunteer and unpaid experiences in which your skills were honed and you were able to be of service; these should be in chronological order. Under each separate listing, make note of the duties that were relevant to the job you're seeking.

5. List the academic institutions you've attended. Include the dates you were enrolled at each one, degrees or certificates earned and the areas of study. Also note any vocational and technical schools you attended.

6. List your skills and any awards you've received.

7. Mention that your references are available upon request.

Tips & Warnings

• Include a well-written cover letter specific to the position and company you are applying to with your resume.

• Write a clear heading for each section of your resume.

• Follow a consistent spacing format. Your work should be easy to read and understand.

• Be direct and to the point. Stick to basics and avoid going over two pages.

• Check for spelling and grammatical errors.