I'm trying to put together my first job resume as a high school student. What should I include to make sure it stands out, even if my experience is pretty limited?
The key to creating an effective resume, especially when you have limited work experience, is to capitalize on what you do have. So let's break this down:
1. Personal Information: At the top of the resume, include your name, contact information (phone number and email), and home address. Make sure your voicemail message is professional and your email address is also professionally appropriate.
2. Objective or Summary Statement: This is a brief statement about what you hope to achieve with the job. Customize this for each job you're applying for. It could be something like "High school student seeking to utilize strong interpersonal skills in a customer service role."
3. Education: Keep this simple with your school name, expected graduation date, and GPA (if it's strong). Don't forget to mention any notable academic achievements or honors courses.
4. Work Experience: If you've held any paid or unpaid positions, be sure to list them with responsibilities and achievements. Try focusing on duties or projects that require initiative or problem-solving.
5. Extracurricular Activities: Whether you're involved in sports, clubs, or community service, these activities can show leadership, teamwork, and other valuable skills.
6. Skills: These could include technical skills (like proficiency in specific software or equipment), communication skills, or any other relevant abilities. Including languages spoken is often seen as an asset.
7. References: It's best to ask permission from teachers, coaches, or anyone else who can give you a positive recommendation. You can include their names and contact information, or simply put "References available upon request."
Remember, your resume should look clean, and organized, and be free of typos. Use bullet points, consistent formatting, and action words to describe your experiences and skills. The goal is to showcase your strengths and motivation. Keep it concise; one page should suffice. Tailoring the resume to the job you're applying for increases your chances of getting noticed. Good luck!
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