Below is a complete, ready-to-use first job (no prior work experience) resume example. Everything here is written in plain English and formatted so it reads cleanly through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Copy what fits your situation, change the parts that don't, and build the full resume free in our resume builder — no sign-up, no fee to download.

Resume summary for a first job (no prior work experience) role

Your summary sits at the top of the resume and tells a hiring manager who you are in two or three sentences. Here is one you can start from:

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.

Swap in the kind of role you're applying for and adjust the details to match your real experience. Keep it honest — the goal is to sound like yourself on your best day, not someone else.

Skills to list on a first job (no prior work experience) resume

These are the skills employers in this line of work actually look for. Pick the ones that are true for you and put them in a short, scannable 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 for a first job (no prior work experience) resume

Each line below starts with a strong action verb and describes something you did and the result. Use the ones that match your history, and put real numbers in wherever you can:

  • 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

Build your first job (no prior work experience) resume free

When you're ready, head to the 360 Quick Resume builder, pick the First Job (No Prior Work Experience) role, and these starting points load in automatically. You edit everything to fit you, then download as PDF, Word, or plain text — free, every time. Want more help first? Read how Applicant Tracking Systems read your resume or how to write a resume with little experience.