I'm 18 and still in high school, looking for my first job. What's the best way to make my resume stand out when I have no job experience yet? Any tips on what to include would be appreciated.
Writing a resume with no work experience can indeed be challenging, but fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to showcase your skills, abilities, and accomplishments.
1. Focus on Your Education: As a high school student, your education is one of the most important things you can highlight. Include your GPA (if it's strong), any advanced or honors classes, and any noteworthy projects or exams.
2. Skills: Think about what skills you have that could be valuable in a job. These could include communication skills, teamwork abilities, or computer literacy.
3. Extracurricular Activities: Even if you haven't had a job before, you likely have participated in activities that have developed your skills and abilities. This can include school clubs, sports teams, community service, or even hobbies. For each activity, mention the specific roles you played and the skills you gained.
4. Certifications or Training: If you have any certifications, like a CPR license, or if you've gone through any additional training courses, like a coding bootcamp, be sure to include those.
5. Volunteer Work: Don't underestimate the value of volunteer work, which can help demonstrate skills such as teamwork, communication, and dedication.
6. Honors & Awards: If you've received any academic or non-academic awards, be sure to incorporate them into your resume. They provide proof of your excellence and dedication.
7. References: Usually for first-time job seekers, teachers, coaches, school counselors, or other adults who know you well can serve as references.
Remember to keep your resume to one page since you're just starting out, and make sure your contact information is easily visible. Proofread carefully, perhaps even asking a teacher or parent to review it for errors or other feedback. Good luck with your job search!
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