How to Create an Entry Level Resume
Every new graduate runs into the Catch-22 of the job search. Employers are looking for employees with experience, and entry-level workers are looking for a job that can give them that experience. It is difficult to get the experience you need without a job, so entry-level workers need to pay careful attention to how they craft their resumes. Creating a resume that highlights the experience you do have is the best way to get the job--and the experience--you need.
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Things You'll Need
- Word processing program
- Computer
- School records
- Awards and commendations
Instructions
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Gather as much information as you can related to your education. Since the entry-level resume will be short on work experience, it is critical to highlight your accomplishments in the academic field. Listing any awards and commendations you received is important, as is highlighting time you spent on the dean's list or honor roll.
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Start your resume with a clearly stated objective. Keep the resume focused on the field to which you are applying, and tailor that objective to the job you are seeking. Tailoring the objective portion of the resume directly to the job you are seeking is the best way to get past the gatekeeper and get your resume in front of the relevant decision maker.
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Put as much in the experience section as you can, even if you have no paid jobs to list. If you served as an intern during your college years, be sure to list that information on your resume. The same is true for volunteer positions you held during your high school and college years. Even a fast food job you held during the summer shows initiative and work ethic.
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Make the education section of your resume as compelling and complete as possible. For an entry-level resume, the focus will be on the training you have received, not on the jobs you have held. Provide as much detail as possible in this section, not just the names of the schools and the dates you attended. Include any awards and citations you received, as well as any additional training past high school and college.
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Provide a list of references, instead of just listing "References Supplied Upon Demand." Since you have no working track record to stand on, would-be employers will want to check your references carefully. Try to use professional colleagues who are already in the workforce, and always let those individuals know you plan to use them as references. Always ask permission before listing anyone as a reference on your resume.
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Proofread your resume carefully, then proofread it again. Ask a friend or family member to proofread and critique your resume for spelling, grammar, structure and clarity. Do not send out a single resume until you know the document is perfect.
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References
- Photo Credit resume image by Danil Vachegin from Fotolia.com
