First Job Resume Format for High School Graduates

As a high school graduate, I'm preparing my resume for my first job application. What should the format look like, and what content is most important? How can I make sure it doesn't look too empty?

Creating a compelling resume as a high school graduate can feel like a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can showcase your skills, experiences, and potential successfully. Your resume should be one page long, as a rule of thumb.

1. Contact Information: At the top of your resume, include your full name, phone number, and professional email address.

2. Objective: Open with a brief but compelling objective statement, which conveys your goals and what you hope to bring to the job. This will give prospective employers a quick snapshot of your ambitions and enthusiasm.

For instance: "Recent high school graduate seeking an entry-level position to utilize developed skills in customer service and communication. Enthusiastic and motivated, eager to learn, and contribute to a team."

3. Education: As a recent graduate, your education is one of your main selling points. List the name of your high school, its location, graduation date, and any relevant coursework or honors.

4. Experience: Even without professional job experience, you can discuss transferable experiences - such as part-time jobs, volunteer work, extra-curricular activities, or roles in school clubs or organizations. Don't discount intuition from these activities - teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving are all valuable skills.

For instance:

- If you were an active member of the drama club, you've likely developed teamwork and project management skills.

- Volunteer work at the local library could be indicative of your dedication, reliability, and passion for community service.

5. Skills: List any soft and hard skills you possess. Soft skills can include things like communication and leadership, while hard skills could encompass proficiency in languages, computer software, etc.

6. Accomplishments or Awards: If you've received any academic or extracurricular awards, list them here - these can help set you apart from other applicants.

7. References: If you feel comfortable, you can add a line such as "References available upon request" at the bottom of your resume. This signals to hiring managers that you have individuals who can vouch for your abilities and work ethic.

Remember, everyone starts somewhere. Even without traditional job experience, you have talents and value to add to an organization. Be honest about your experiences, focus on the transferable skills you've gained, and maintain a positive, can-do attitude in your resume.

Do not forget to proofread your resume for grammatical errors and typos, too. It adds to your professional appearance. Good luck!