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June 14, 2023
How To Write a Resume for the First Time
We know that writing a resume for the first time can be daunting, especially if you feel like you don’t have a lot of experience to mention. Learning how to write a resume for the first time is an essential skill for young professionals.
Whether you’re 13 or 33 and want to know how to write a resume for the first time, you’ve come to the right place! Stepping into the professional world is intimidating, whether you’re entering the field of computer programming or media buying. But a stellar resume with impressive skills students need to be professional and a formal objective can help you get ahead.
Keep reading to learn how to write a resume for the first time that will land you your dream job!
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What Is a Resume?
A resume is a formal document that a job candidate submits when applying for a job to show their skills, experienced, education, and aptitude for the position, often accompanied by a cover letter.
To increase their chance of getting called to an interview it is crucial to know how to build a resume that highlights their relevant achievements, use clear and concise language, and customize the content to align with the specific job requirements.
What Is the Difference Between a Resume and a CV?
A resume is a more comprehensive look at a candidate’s qualifications, including work experience, project experience, and skills. A CV (Curriculum Vitae) only shows a candidate’s academic history.
A resume is a more comprehensive look at a candidate’s qualifications, including work experience, project experience, and skills.
Do I Need a Resume?
Yes, if you plan to apply for any job, you will need a resume to submit with your application. Applying to a job without a resume will likely result in failure.
Do All Jobs Require a Resume?
Most jobs require a resume. However, some entry-level positions may not require one and some employers may accept referral or simplified applications in place of a resume.
How to Write a Resume for the First Time in 7 Easy Steps
Below is a quick look at the seven easy steps you need when learning how to write a resume for the first time.
- Choose a Format or Template
- Add Contact Information
- Write a Summary or Objective
- Include Education
- Describe Relevant Work or Project Experience
- List Relevant Skills
- Proofread
Break Down of Resume Writing Steps
This section breaks down each step of how to write a resume for the first time so you can craft a brilliant resume.
Choose a Format or Template
You can find resume templates online or in most writing programs, including Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and Pages. Use these templates as a starting point and begin filling in your information.
Add Contact Information
First, add your contact information at the bottom, top, or both of your resume. Include your name, email address, physical address or city of residence, phone number, and website if applicable.
Write a Summary or Objective
Include a resume summary or professional objective at the top of your resume. You may want to save this step for last if you’re stumped. An objective should state your professional goals and your ideal career path or position. A summary is more straightforward, as you just need to give an overview of the most important information on your resume.
Include Education
Add your academic history. You don’t need to explain anything, just list your educational accomplishments with any important details, like the type of degree you have, the time frame, and the location. Most people list their high school diploma along with their college education.
Describe Relevant Work or Project Experience
Your work experience section should be the meatiest. Include all relevant work experience and explain your responsibilities in each role. Include the company name, contact info, and duration of the employment. If you have little to no work experience, include project experience, such as volunteering.
List Relevant Skills
Next should be your skill section, where you list relevant skills. Include a mix of hard skills, which are technical, and soft skills, which are more like personal characteristics and your general behavior.
Proofread
Once you’ve added all the information to the resume template, proofread it several times. Look for spelling errors, grammatical errors, clarity problems, and formatting issues. Never submit a resume without reading it first.
Tips for Writing a Successful Resume
Below are a few more tips to help you write an excellent first resume.
Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description
It’s easy to write one resume and send it to twenty companies, but that’s not the best way to get a job. We recommend editing and adjusting your resume for every job position, using keywords from the job description to make you seem like the best candidate.
Stick to One Page
Long resumes can be clunky and cumbersome. We recommend keeping your resume to one full page, as any longer may deter employers from reading it in its entirety. However, half a page looks too sparse. A full page, or at least ¾ of a page, is the ideal length for any resume.
Use Action Verbs and Buzzwords
Lastly, do some cursory keyword research for your industry and the position you’re applying for. Buzzwords and impactful action verbs will grab the reader’s attention and make your resume more engaging and appealing.
You might also like: How to Build a Professional Profile That Gets Results
Conclusion
Resume building can be hard, but with this guide, we know you can write a standout resume. And once you create a superb resume, the next step is mastering interviewing. Now that you know how to write a resume for the first time, the job market is your oyster!
Related Content:
- Skills Examples for Students: Skills Students Need to be Successful
- How to Get Promoted at Work
- What to do in the First 30 Days When Starting a New Job
- Work-Life Balance Meaning: Finding Yours
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