How To Write Your First Job Resume

If you feel overwhelmed or unsure about writing your first resume, take a deep breath. We’re here to help you write a compelling and impactful document that will land you your first job. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the writing process, offering valuable insights and practical tips.

The goal of your resume is to stand out to potential employers and persuade them to call you for an interview. From selecting an appropriate template to crafting convincing text, we’ll help you achieve this goal. This guide will give you the confidence to create a professional resume that showcases your skills and increases your chances of securing a job.

Writing Your First Job Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide

So, you’re ready to write your first job resume, but where do you start? How do you know what to include and what to leave out? What if you don’t have much work experience? We’ve created a step-by-step guide covering the best strategies for writing an engaging resume that will capture the attention of hiring managers. These guidelines have been tailored for first-time jobseekers and cover all aspects of your resume.

After reading our guide, you’ll be well-equipped to write an effective first resume. Let’s dive in and get started!

1. Choose a template

There’s no need to start from scratch when writing your first job resume. Templates are a valuable resource and especially useful for first-time writers, as they offer a range of benefits that enhance your job application process. You can save valuable time with ready-made resume outlines and avoid common mistakes while ensuring all necessary sections are included. With various templates available, choose one that presents a professional and polished appearance while maintaining a look specific to your style and industry. Customize the fonts, colors, and layouts to create a unique document that stands out from other applicants.

Remember to keep readability in mind. Be sure the template you choose allows you to use clear language, bullet points, and headings. Avoid designs formatted for long paragraphs or dense blocks of text. Hiring managers should be able to quickly scan your document without getting overwhelmed by too much information. A concise resume with a simple design will increase your chances of getting a callback for an interview while demonstrating your professionalism and attention to detail. Use this opportunity to make an excellent first impression with a solid template.

2. Add your contact information

Providing your contact information is the easiest part of writing a resume. Start with your full name at the top of the document, and make sure it captures attention. You want hiring managers to remember who you are and make a connection. Consider selecting a template that features your name at the top of the page in a large, bolded text to advertise whose resume it is.

Next, list your email address and phone number. Give hiring managers your most up-to-date info, and be sure to use a professional-sounding email address. Opt for an email address that uses your first and last names instead of a random username. You should also disclose your location on your resume, especially when applying for local opportunities. There’s no need to give your full address, though; listing your city and state is sufficient. Finally, consider including links to your personal website or online portfolio, especially if you’re in a creative field.

3. Focus on your education

Your education section becomes a valuable tool to showcase your qualifications when you have little or no work history. Expanding on your education allows you to compensate for your lack of professional experience and impress potential employers with your personal growth and dedication to learning.

Employers know that first-time jobseekers are limited in their experience, so feature what you do have. You can even restructure your resume to have your education section closer to the top, drawing focus to it. In addition to highlighting your academic achievements, such as a high GPA (3.7 or above), academic awards, and honors, consider including relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate your expertise in a specific field.

Remember to emphasize your involvement in extracurricular activities, student organizations, and leadership roles. Experiences like these show that you have valuable teamwork, organization, delegation, project management, problem-solving, and communication skills. These transferable skills you’ve gained through your educational journey are just as valid as those obtained through formal work.

4. Highlight your other skills, accomplishments, and experiences

Beyond your education, many other aspects of your background can impress hiring managers and strengthen your resume. You can acquire new skills in various areas of your life, not just in a professional work setting or educational institution. Sometimes it takes an unconventional approach to write a resume when you don’t have much work experience yet.

Consider including relevant certifications that show your specialized skills and knowledge. Include any volunteer work or community involvement, highlighting your commitment to making a positive impact. Be sure to mention any proficiency in foreign languages, as this can be a precious asset in today’s globalized world. Lastly, don’t discredit your hobbies and interests that align with the job. This can add a personal touch and display your well-rounded personality.

5. Customize your resume for each job opportunity

Significantly increase your chances of success by customizing your resume for each position you apply for. Tailoring your resume to match each organization’s applicant requirements and preferences demonstrates a genuine interest in the role and alignment with its needs and goals. A little effort goes a long way. It only takes some simple research to show that you’re willing to get to know the company you’re applying to. Employers can tell when you’ve tried to go the extra mile instead of sending out the same generic resume for multiple jobs hoping you’ll get a bite.

Start by researching the companies you’re interested in and gain insights into their values, culture, and industry dynamics. Pay close attention to the job listings you read for each position and identify keywords, skills, and qualifications the employer prioritizes. Incorporate similar language into your resume to highlight your relevant experiences and skills. Consider the audience you’re writing for with each application you submit, adapting your tone and content to suit the specific employer’s expectations. This knowledge will help you craft a resume that resonates with hiring managers and makes a positive impression.

Andrew Stoner

Executive Resume Writer and Career Coach

Andrew Stoner is an executive career coach and resume writer with 17 years of experience as a hiring manager and operations leader at two Fortune 500 Financial Services companies, and as the career services director at two major university business schools.