How to make a CV for First Job

When applying for your first job, creating a well-prepared resume is essential to showcase your skills, education, and any training that aligns with the role. Highlighting your most relevant qualifications allows you to effectively demonstrate why you’re a strong candidate for the position. Understanding how to structure your resume and knowing what key information to include can significantly improve your chances of advancing in the hiring process and securing your first job.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through crafting an impactful resume for your first job, provide a practical resume example, share a customizable template, and address common questions to help you confidently step into the workforce.

How to Create a Resume for Your First Job

Crafting your first resume is an important step toward entering the workforce. Follow these key steps to create a compelling resume that showcases your qualifications and aligns with the role you’re applying for:

1. Research Keywords

One of the first things to do when preparing your resume is to identify relevant keywords in the job description. Many employers use Applicant Tracking System (ATS) software to screen applications, so incorporating the right keywords from the job posting can help your resume get noticed.

To find these keywords, carefully review the job description, particularly sections like “Key Qualifications” or “Job Responsibilities.” Note any frequently used words or phrases, such as specific skills, certifications, or qualifications. Including these terms throughout your resume can improve your chances of passing ATS filters and getting your resume into the hands of hiring managers.

2. Choose the Right Resume Format

The format of your resume is critical in ensuring that potential employers can easily review your qualifications. For a first job, you can choose between two main formats:

• Reverse-Chronological Format: This is the most common format and lists your education and relevant experiences (such as internships or volunteer work) starting with the most recent. It highlights your most up-to-date qualifications.
• Functional Format: If you lack formal work experience or have gaps in your employment, a functional resume may be a better option. This format emphasizes your skills and abilities—such as leadership, communication, or teamwork—rather than job history.

Select the format that best aligns with your background and the job you’re applying for.

3. Provide Clear Contact Information

At the top of your resume, include your contact information so employers can easily reach you. Make sure to:

• Boldly display your first and last name.
• Include your phone number and a professional email address (for example, using your first and last name or initials).
• Provide your city and state of residence.

Double-check that your contact information is correct and easy to find so you don’t miss any potential opportunities.

4. Write a Compelling Professional Summary

A professional summary, located at the top of your resume, provides a snapshot of your qualifications in two to three concise sentences. This is where you can catch the employer’s attention by highlighting your most relevant skills, education, and experience.

For example: “Motivated honors student with lifeguard certification and experience caring for children. Proven ability to take responsibility for younger siblings and cousins. Knowledgeable in first aid and CPR, with a strong focus on safety and care.”

Tailor your professional summary to the specific job you’re applying for by emphasizing qualifications that match the role.

5. Highlight Your Education

For entry-level positions, your education may be more significant than your work experience. In this section, list the highest degree or diploma you’ve earned, along with the name of your school and the graduation date (or expected date, if you’re still in school).

If applicable, consider including additional educational details such as:

• Relevant coursework that aligns with the job.
• Academic honors, achievements, or awards.
• A strong GPA, especially if it’s 3.5 or higher.

Providing specific details about your education helps potential employers see the knowledge and training you bring to the role.

6. List Relevant Experience

Even if you haven’t held a formal job yet, you likely have experience that demonstrates your skills and qualifications. This can include volunteer work, internships, school projects, or extracurricular activities. Think about how these experiences relate to the job you’re applying for.

When listing experience, be sure to:

• Provide your title (e.g., “Volunteer” or “Intern”) and the dates of involvement.
• Include the name of the organization or group.
• Write bullet points that describe your responsibilities, achievements, and skills you gained in the role.

For example: Volunteer | April 2020–Present
Food Bank of Illinois, Chicago, IL

• Distributed meals to individuals in need, ensuring timely service and satisfaction.
• Communicated effectively with participants to understand their preferences and explain the process.
• Followed organizational guidelines to maintain a structured and efficient distribution system.

Including relevant experience, even if it’s not from a traditional job, helps demonstrate your capabilities and work ethic.

7. Highlight Your Skills

In your resume, dedicate a section to showcase the skills that make you a strong candidate for the position. Aim to list six to 10 skills, ensuring you include a blend of both hard and soft skills.

• Hard skills are specific, technical abilities such as proficiency in software or programming languages, which are often job-specific and measurable.
• Soft skills, on the other hand, describe interpersonal abilities and character traits like communication, teamwork, or leadership, which are crucial in almost any role.

Be sure to review the job description carefully and prioritize skills that the employer is seeking. Tailoring this section to the job requirements increases your chances of standing out. Below are examples of common skills you may want to include on a resume for your first job:

• Programming Languages: Highlight any languages you’re familiar with, such as Python, Java, or HTML.
• Software Proficiency: Include any relevant tools or software you’re skilled in, such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, or project management tools like Trello.
• Foreign Languages: If you’re fluent in any language beyond your native one, list it, as this is a valuable asset in many industries.
• Social Media Expertise: If the job involves marketing, communications, or similar fields, proficiency in platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn is highly desirable.
• Customer Service: Demonstrate your ability to engage with customers or clients effectively, especially if the role involves front-facing interactions.
• Communication: Whether verbal or written, strong communication skills are essential in almost every job.
• Decision-Making: Highlight your ability to make thoughtful decisions, particularly if the role requires independent problem-solving.
• Time Management: Showcase your ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage workloads efficiently.
• Teamwork: Emphasize your ability to work well in collaborative environments, a key requirement in most entry-level positions.
• Adaptability: Show employers that you’re flexible and able to adjust to new challenges or work environments.
• Organization: Employers value candidates who can manage their tasks effectively, stay organized, and maintain attention to detail.

By including a variety of skills, you demonstrate a well-rounded profile that highlights both your technical expertise and your ability to thrive in team-based or dynamic work environments.

Resume template for a first job

Here’s a simple and effective resume template for someone applying for their first job. This template emphasizes education, skills, and any relevant experience such as volunteer work, internships, or extracurricular activities.

[Your Full Name]
[Your Address] | [City, State, ZIP] | [Phone Number] | [Professional Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile] | [Portfolio Website (if applicable)]

Professional Summary

[2-3 concise sentences that describe your relevant skills, education, and qualifications. Tailor this to the job you’re applying for.]

Example:
Motivated high school graduate with a strong foundation in teamwork and time management. Proven leadership skills through volunteer work and extracurricular activities. Eager to apply excellent communication and organizational skills in an entry-level role.

Education

[School Name] – [City, State]
[Degree or Diploma] | [Expected Graduation Date or Year Graduated]

• Relevant Coursework: [List any courses relevant to the job]
• Academic Achievements: [Mention any honors, awards, or GPA if applicable]

Skills

• Hard Skills: [List specific technical skills like software, programming languages, or certifications relevant to the role]
• Soft Skills: [Include key interpersonal skills like teamwork, communication, problem-solving]

Example:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Excellent verbal and written communication
• Strong time management and organizational skills
• Basic knowledge of HTML and CSS
• Team collaboration and adaptability

Experience

[Job Title or Volunteer Role] – [Organization Name] | [Location]
[Month, Year] – [Month, Year or “Present”]

• [Bullet point outlining responsibility or achievement]
• [Bullet point emphasizing skills used or gained]
• [Bullet point describing impact or success in the role]

Example: Volunteer | Food Bank of Illinois – Chicago, IL
April 2021 – Present

• Assisted in the distribution of meals to 100+ individuals daily, ensuring efficient and organized processes.
• Communicated with team members to ensure smooth operations and adherence to safety protocols.
• Gained valuable customer service skills by engaging with participants and resolving their concerns.

[Project or Extracurricular Activity Title] – [Group Name] | [Location]
[Month, Year] – [Month, Year or “Present”]

• [Describe the project or activity and your role in it]
• [Highlight any skills or achievements related to the job you’re applying for]

Certifications (Optional)

• [Name of Certification] – [Issuing Organization], [Date Earned]
• [Name of Certification] – [Issuing Organization], [Date Earned]

Example:

• First Aid and CPR Certified – American Red Cross, 2023
• Lifeguard Certification – American Lifeguard Association, 2022

Extracurricular Activities (Optional)

[Activity or Club Name] – [Your Role]
[Month, Year] – [Month, Year]

• [Describe your role, responsibilities, and skills gained]
• [Highlight leadership roles, if applicable]

Example: Student Council Member – Local High School
September 2021 – May 2022

• Organized school-wide events and collaborated with a team of 10 students to improve campus engagement.
• Developed leadership and public speaking skills by representing the student body during meetings.

References

Available upon request.

This template is clean, easy to read, and allows you to focus on your education, skills, and any relevant experience, even if you haven’t had a formal job yet. Tailor the details to match the specific job you’re applying for, ensuring your resume aligns with the employer’s needs.