Whether you're a recent graduate or still in school, if you don't have any professional experience, chances are you're wondering how to write a resume that will land you your first job. Never fear! Even if your experience is limited, there are plenty of things you can do to make sure your resume is top-notch.
Tips on how to write a resume when you have no professional experience
One of the most important things you can do on your resume is to list your educational history. If you're still in school, include the name of the school you're attending, your expected graduation date, and your GPA (if it's 3.0 or higher). If you've already graduated, list the name of the school you attended, your degree or highest level of education, and any relevant coursework or honours you received. Even if you don't have any professional experience, listing your education shows employers that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to perform the job you'd like to get.
If you've completed any internships or volunteer work, be sure to include them in your resume. Just because these positions were unpaid doesn't mean they're not worth including! Any experience, paid or unpaid, can be beneficial when it comes to writing a resume with no professional experience. These types of experiences will show potential employers that you have the skills and drive necessary to succeed in a professional setting.
In addition to listing your education and experience, another important thing to include on your resume is a section highlighting your skills and achievements. If you don't have professional experience, this is where you can showcase what makes you unique and qualified for the job. Include any relevant skills that would make you a good fit for the position (such as programming languages or software proficiency) and any awards or accolades you've received (such as being on the Dean's List). This is also a great place to mention any relevant coursework or research projects you've conducted. By highlighting your skills and accomplishments, you'll be sure to catch an employer's eye, even with no professional experience!
