First job resume example (no work experience)

Everyone starts somewhere. If you're applying for your first job, you may think you have nothing to put on a resume, but you almost certainly do. School, sports, clubs, church, volunteering, babysitting, mowing lawns, and helping family all show that you're reliable, can follow directions, and work well with people. That's exactly what employers hiring for first jobs are looking for.

What first-job employers look for

Employers hiring for entry-level jobs in fast food, retail, grocery, and similar places know you don't have work experience. They're looking for signs that you'll show up on time, be friendly with customers, learn quickly, and be a good teammate. Your availability matters a lot too, so be clear about when you can work.

Resume summary

Motivated first-time job seeker with strong school experience, volunteer work, or family responsibilities that demonstrate reliability and a willingness to learn. Looking to bring fresh energy and a strong work ethic to a new role.

Skills to list

• Reliable attendance (school, sports, volunteer)
• Strong communication with teachers and adults
• Teamwork from sports, clubs, or group projects
• Problem-solving on assignments and tasks
• Time management between school and activities
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, Google)
• Customer service from school events or volunteer roles
• Following directions and learning quickly
• Cash handling from school fundraisers (where applicable)
• Willingness to work weekends, evenings, and holidays

Experience bullet points

• Maintained strong attendance throughout high school with minimal absences
• Worked on team projects in school and contributed by meeting every deadline
• Volunteered at community events including church, school, or local nonprofit work
• Helped care for younger siblings or family members on a regular schedule
• Held leadership roles in clubs, sports teams, or student organizations
• Managed time between school, homework, activities, and family responsibilities
• Used Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and basic email for school assignments
• Followed instructions from teachers and coaches and asked questions when unsure
• Showed up on time for practices, study sessions, and group meetings
• Earned good grades while balancing other responsibilities and commitments

What to put in place of jobs

Use a section called "Experience" or "Activities and Volunteer Work," and list your activities just like jobs, with a title, the organization, dates, and what you did:

Tips for a first resume

• Keep it to one page. A short, clean resume is exactly right for a first job.
• List your availability. Days and hours you can work, especially evenings and weekends, can make the difference.
• Include school achievements. Honor roll, perfect attendance, awards, and relevant classes all count.
• Use a professional email. A simple one with your name looks best. Our guide to writing a resume with no experience has more tips.

Build your resume free

Open the 360 Quick Resume builder, choose Special Situations, then pick First Job (No Prior Work Experience). This summary, skills list, and these bullet points load in for you to edit. Download as PDF, Word, or plain text, free.

Want more help? Read common resume mistakes to avoid or how applicant tracking systems read your resume.

More special situations resume examples

• Returning to Work After Caregiving
• Returning Citizen (Post-Incarceration)
• Career Change