How to Write a Resume for a First Job

Your resume is your best tool in scoring interviews for a first job.

All resumes should present job seekers in the best light, and a resume for your first job is no different. Create a resume that shows off your professionalism, training and dedication to getting things done. You don't need a lengthy work history to demonstrate accomplishments. You probably have plenty of experiences that would spark the interest of an employer.

Things You'll Need

• pen/pencil
• paper

Instructions

1. List your education and training experiences at the top of the resume. Include all schools, graduation dates or expected graduations dates. Even if you never attended college, be sure to list seminars or classes you've taken, especially if they're relevant to the job. Include certifications and the dates you received the certifications.

2. Include a section for any volunteer work, involvement in organizations, club memberships, church or groups or other community activities. Community involvement shows commitment and dedication. Listing these activities is especially important if you've been a group leader or organized activities for the group.

3. Group your experiences into sections with headings such as "Education," "Community Service" or "Organizational Affiliations." Use bullet points to describe your duties and accomplishments. Your descriptions should be brief, but descriptive. For example, write "Youth Group Assistant Coordinator: Organized and conducted weekly meetings, planned outings, and provided instruction during Bible Study."

4. Include a section for special skills that you have such as computer software capabilities or other technical abilities.

5. Your resume should look simple and professional. Avoid elaborate or fancy designs or fonts. Print your resume on clean, crisp white paper.

6. Use action words and emphasize results when writing descriptions for your experiences. Tell the reader what you did, how you did it and what happened because of your actions.

Tips & Warnings

• Proofread your resume several times and have someone else read it. Grammatical and spelling errors are a major reason why employers throw resumes in the trash.

• never include education or experience you don't actually have. Its better to have a thin but honest resume than to be discovered to be a liar.

References

• Careerealism: Write a Resume That Helps You Land Your First Job