Finding jobs without a resume as a high school student

Given that a lot of jobs ask for a resume, how can I find work if I've never had a job before and therefore don't have a resume? Are there certain jobs or industries more open to high schoolers without much experience?

Absolutely, you can find job opportunities as a high school student even if you've never had a job before. The key is to look for entry-level positions or industries that are known for hiring young people or those without much experience. Start by considering industries such as food service (think cafes, fast food restaurants, ice cream shops), retail, summer camps, or local businesses. These places often look for part-time workers and are usually more willing to hire high school students with little to no experience.

Although you may feel that you don't have much to put on a resume because you've never had a formal job, don't discount the experiences you have had in school or through extracurricular activities. Have you been involved in any school clubs or sports teams? Have you ever volunteered or done any community service? Leadership roles, academic achievements, and special skills or talents can all be included on your resume too. Each of these things can help demonstrate that you're reliable, ambitious, and committed—qualities that employers look for.

Even tasks like babysitting, pet sitting, or doing yard work for neighbors can be included because they demonstrate responsibility. Also, remember to include any skills relevant to the job you're applying for. For instance, if you're applying to work at a clothing store, include any experience you have with fashion or retail (like selling clothes online or helping organize a fashion show at school).

Lastly, one simple way to get job experience without having a formal job is to start by volunteering in your community or doing an internship. These can be great ways to gain practical experience and potentially obtain references for future job applications. Plus, they allow you to explore different industries and job roles to see what you might enjoy. Once you're ready to apply for jobs, just remember to emphasize the soft skills you've picked up from these experiences since they can be highly transferable. Good luck!