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11 Entry-Level Resume Examples That Landed Jobs in 2024

Entry-Level Accounting

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• Entry-Level Resumes A-L
• Entry-Level Resumes M-Z
• Writing Your Resume

Getting your first full-time job is a classic chicken and egg problem.

Companies want to hire professionals with years of experience, but how the heck are you supposed to gain that experience in the first place?!

Rest assured that it gets easier to land new jobs throughout your career once you have your first experience under your belt.

To help secure that all-important first job, we’ve reviewed countless entry-level resumes to find what works and what doesn’t when  building your resume  and leveraging a cover letter generator so you can line up more interviews.

We’ve curated 11 stellar entry-level resume samples and some excellent  resume-writing tips  that have helped candidates across industries get their first break in 2024 .

Entry-Level Accounting Resume

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Why this resume works

• Highlight your numeracy and research skills and familiarity with accounting tools, such as QuickBooks and Excel.

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Entry-Level Data Analyst Resume Example

• These projects don’t have to be huge open-source types with thousands of users. Did you ever build a project to scratch your own itch? Then talk about it!
• Need more room? These story-telling details are a perfect storm for an effective entry-level cover letter .
• If you’ve had the chance to have an internship experience, then be sure to quantify the impact of that work on your entry-level data analyst resume. Did you save time? Increase revenue? Improve customer satisfaction? Any way to quantify your results will  improve the quality of your resume .

Entry-Level Engineer Resume

• Starting your engineering career is a classic catch-22. When you’re trying to get your first engineering job, employers say you need experience. But to get engineering experience, you have to get your first engineering job. Cue endless cycle.
• But although employers “require” you to have experience, what they really want is for you to have the skills to complete the job.  More often than not, all you need is a degree and some soft skills  like organization and project management in your  resume’s skills section .
• Tailor it to match the  job description’s  keywords, including them in a few of your work experience bullet points and your  resume objective  (if you decide to use an objective).
• Lastly, if you’re freshly out of school, you can leverage any projects you worked on that apply to the listed requirements. They’re an excellent way to show your skills and initiative in place of work history. 

Entry-Level Healthcare Resume

• Starting off with the  right resume template  and  formatting your resume properly  can save you oodles of time and set you in the right direction as you begin writing your entry-level healthcare resume.
• Work in the form of internships, volunteering, projects, and surprisingly, even relevant  interests and hobbies can be included on your resume .

Entry-Level HR Resume

• Think about an internship, school project, or even coursework that polished a proficiency relevant to the role. See how James gives his entry level HR resume a clever twist by pointing to his successful “Navigating Workplace Harmony” project presentation and research for the “HR Trends in Modern Workplace” project.

Entry-Level Marketing Resume

• As a marketer, you know that the most important metric you ultimately need to drive is revenue. If you’ve had a marketing internship when applying for your first full-time role, you should focus on how your marketing efforts impacted the bottom line.
• Volunteering for a local business or charity to help them with marketing is a great way to get some preliminary marketing experience under your belt. You can then leverage this experience into landing your first full-time marketing role. 
• In the  resume skills section  of your entry-level marketing analyst resume be sure to state all of the channels (both paid and organic) that you’re comfortable with. Since you’re looking for an entry-level role, this list doesn’t need to be exhaustive! It’s okay if that’s one to two channels when you start your career.

Entry-Level Nurse Resume

• Vividly show your achievements in your entry-level nurse resume as an educator and highlight your voluntary roles to benefit disadvantaged groups.

Entry-Level Phlebotomy Resume

• When well-aligned with the hiring company’s needs and goals, a career objective does wonders. It parades your ambition and commitment—some real heavyweights that could set you apart from the competition, regardless of your low experience level.

Entry-Level Recruiter Resume

• Lead with your strengths on your entry-level recruiter resume. More often than not, this will be your education.
• As you progress in your career, your education section will take up less and less space on your resume, but right now, it’ll consume a sizable amount of real estate. Starting with a  resume outline  can help you fill in some of these important details. 
• These statements can, however, set your resume apart from the crowd when customized to the target job:
• Great objectives (for entry-level) and summaries (for 10+ years of experience) mention the business by name, use power-packed, concise language, and sprinkle some metrics describing previous job achievements.

Entry-Level Sales Resume

• Having a job, regardless of what it is, demonstrates responsibility—one of the most in-demand skills for entry-level candidates.
• With that said, you should still try to make your experience as relevant as possible to the sales role you’re applying for. For example, to be successful in sales, you need effective time management skills. Thankfully, almost all jobs require the ability to manage time, so it’s an inherently universal and valuable skill!

Entry-Level Software Developer Resume

• Listing one to two programming languages you know really well is much wiser than mentioning four to five languages you have novice familiarity with. You’ll end up looking foolish—or worse, dishonest during the interview!
• If you include a  skill on your resume , you should be comfortable answering interview questions about it.

Related resume guides

• College Graduate
• Grad School
• Administrative Assistant

Writing Your Entry-Level Resume

There’s no silver bullet when it comes to  resume templates . You can use nearly any template and make an effective entry-level resume. Just be sure to follow a few rules:

• Make sure your resume is readable. Make the job of the person reviewing your resume as easy as possible.
• Keep your resume to one page. Your resume should only stretch to two pages when you have five or more years of experience.
• The resume sections you need: work experience, skills, education, and contact info. The rest are optional.
• Please, please, avoid spelling and grammar errors. Triple-check your resume; then, have a friend read it.

All of these rules are in service of one goal: make it as easy as possible for the person reviewing your resume to come away convinced that you deserve an interview for the role you’re applying to.

Stretching your resume to two pages or inserting big blocks of text goes directly against this goal.

Insert plenty of white space, avoid really small font, and use big headings.

Resume summary or sesume objective?

Have you ever opened a book or article because the title was compelling just to read the introduction to be disappointed?

Think of the  resume summary  or  resume objective  as the introduction paragraph to your resume.

Before we dive into how to make an effective summary or objective, let’s get some definitions out of the way:

• Resume summary: Used for experienced professionals to recap some of their career highlights.
• Resume objective: A short statement of a candidate’s key skills or qualifications as well as why they’re a good fit for a specific job.

As you can imagine, a resume objective is more suitable for an entry-level candidate.

Keep in mind that, unlike an introduction for a book, a resume objective is not required for your resume.

In fact, 95 percent of entry-level resumes should omit a resume objective!

Why? Because most resume objectives don’t increase a candidate’s chances of getting an interview.

To ensure you write a resume objective in the top five percent of applicants, follow these rules:

• Customize it for each job you apply to.
• Don’t be afraid to be personal about why you’re interested in the role or career you’re applying to.
• Keep it to two to three sentences. Any more and it will be ignored by the hiring manager.
• State your top one to two qualifications for the role you’re applying for.

I know, this seems like a lot to fit in two to three sentences. To help give you some inspiration, here are a few examples of effective entry-level resume objectives.

Entry-level resume objective examples

• “Prospective data analyst who strives to pose and answer questions with quantitative-driven insights. Through the development of personal projects I’ve learned the importance of having an iterative, hypothesis-oriented approach to analysis and I’m excited to leverage that approach at Acme Corp as a data analyst.”
• “Recent computer science graduate with a passion for developing scalable web applications and working across the full stack. I’ve built two web apps from the ground up using React, Node, and PostgreSQL.”
• “Retail sales associate with experience working directly with customers to ensure their satisfaction. Looking for an opportunity to work for a KPI-focused organization where I can grow like Acme Corp.”
• “Recent marketing graduate with a passion for developing scale-able acquisition strategies through paid acquisition and SEO. I have experience creating and improving campaigns in the context of a big team and I worked independently to help local organizations start and grow their user acquisition.”

Make any experience relevant

What on earth are you supposed to include on your entry-level resume when you don’t yet have relevant experience?

The answer, frankly, is anything that you can make seem relevant to the role you’re applying for.

I’m a firm believer that any work experience has skills that are transferable to other jobs.

Hiring managers understand that early in your career you may not have a ton of relevant industry experience to draw on.

That’s okay! Having a job, whether that’s a part-time summer job or an entirely unrelated full-time position demonstrates responsibility.

So don’t be hesitant to include any employment you’ve had in the past. Own it!

Still, there is another way to demonstrate to prospective employers that you’re qualified to do the entry-level job you’re applying to: projects.

These can be projects you did as part of a class or projects you undertook to satiate your own curiosity. Projects demonstrate a few things to employers:

• You have a real interest in the industry you’re seeking employment in.
• You take initiative (a very desirable trait for entry-level candidates).
• A level of expertise in your field.

Projects can truly be anything. To give you a better sense of that, here are some project ideas for different entry-level positions:

Project ideas for entry-level resumes

• Did you build a social media following for a club or organization you were part of or implement a successful SEO initiative?
• As part of a class, did you build out a comprehensive case study or hiring process for a real or fictional company? Talk about it.
• Did you build a web app to help your friends decide on which movie to watch next? What kind of programs have you developed in class?
• Can you do a deep dive on a company you’re interested in and build a presentation around a new market they can expand into or a new product offering they can develop?
• Can you try to join a hackathon and shape the vision of a product to build? Can you choose your favorite consumer web app and detail any changes you’d make?
• Pose a question you’ve always wanted to answer; then collect and analyze data to answer that question and put it in a blog post.

Which skills should you include?

When it comes to the skills to include on your entry-level resume, it’s better to include a few skills you know very well than a laundry list of skills you kind of know.

Put yourself in the shoes of the hiring manager. Isn’t it a little suspicious for an entry-level candidate to be an expert in 10+ skills?

You should include your relevant skills in a dedicated  “skills” section on your resume  and also include the context in which you used those skills in a work experience or project.

How do you know what skills to list for a given job?

• If you’re looking for a technical role, be sure to include programming languages or relevant technologies.
• Read the job description of the job you’re applying to.
• If so, list those skills!
• If not, are there skills mentioned in the job description you have that weren’t on your list?

It’s important to customize the skills that you include on your resume for each job you’re applying to because before a human reads your resume, an automated system called an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) will read it.

The ATS is checking whether or not your resume contains certain keywords mentioned in the job description. So it’s worth the time to customize your skills section for each entry-level role you’re applying to!

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• Career Blog

Entry-Level Resume Sample & Writing Tips for 2024

Entry-level job seekers often face numerous challenges when it comes to securing employment. In this article, we will explore the common challenges faced by these job seekers and provide tips and advice for crafting a compelling resume that will help them stand out in a crowded job market.

Our goal is to help entry-level job seekers understand the importance of a great resume and provide them with the knowledge and tools they need to create one. Through this article, we aim to offer practical advice and actionable tips that will help job seekers land their dream job.

In the following sections, we will provide a sample entry-level resume and offer insights and advice on how to craft a great resume that will stand out to potential employers. By the end of this article, we hope to have provided readers with a comprehensive guide to entry-level resume writing that they can use to secure employment in their desired field.

Understanding the Basics of an Entry-Level Resume

If you’re just starting out in your career, you’re likely to need an entry-level resume. An entry-level resume is a document that outlines your educational background, work experience, and other qualifications as a recent graduate or someone who is new to the workforce.

Definition of an Entry-Level Resume

An entry-level resume is a type of resume that is tailored to individuals who are either new to the workforce or have limited professional experience. This type of resume focuses on showcasing the skills and knowledge that the individual gained from academic backgrounds, internships, or volunteer experience.

Purpose of an Entry-Level Resume

The purpose of an entry-level resume is to help those without much prior work experience to stand out to potential employers, highlighting their transferable skills and relevant education. This resume acts as an introduction of the candidate and helps to showcase their suitability for the position they are applying for.

Structure and Format of an Entry-Level Resume

Entry-level resumes are usually shorter in length than those of professionals with more experience. The optimal length for an entry-level resume would be one full page, and it should include the following sections:

• Objective (or professional summary)
• Internship or volunteer experience
• Relevant skills
• Awards or accomplishments

The sections should be listed in reverse chronological order, meaning the most recent information comes first. It’s essential to make sure that the resume is well-formatted and visually appealing. Use bullet points and keep the paragraphs concise and focused. Additionally, make sure your resume is free of any grammatical or spelling errors.

An entry-level resume should emphasize your potential and demonstrate your readiness for the workplace. Make sure your resume highlights your qualifications and showcases your strengths, so you stand out in a competitive job market.

Identifying Key Components of an Entry-Level Resume

When crafting an entry-level resume, it’s important to include the key components that will make your resume stand out to potential employers. Here are the components that should be included in your entry-level resume:

Contact Information

Your contact information should be prominently displayed on your resume. This includes your name, address, phone number, and email address. Make sure to use a professional email address and voicemail message.

Objective Statement/Summary

Your objective statement or summary should be a concise statement that highlights your career goals and relevant skills. This should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for and should be focused on what you can contribute to the company.

Education and Academic Achievements

List your education and academic achievements in reverse chronological order, with your most recent degree first. This should include the institution name, degree earned, field of study, and graduation date. If you have a high GPA, be sure to highlight it.

Relevant Coursework and Certifications

If you have taken relevant coursework or earned certifications that are relevant to the job you are applying for, include them in your resume. This will show potential employers that you have the skills and knowledge required for the job.

Relevant Experience and Internships

Highlight any relevant work experience and internships you have had in the past. Be sure to include the position title, company name, employment dates, and a brief description of your responsibilities and accomplishments in each role.

Skills and Abilities

List any skills and abilities you have that are relevant to the job you are applying for. This may include technical skills, language skills, or specific soft skills such as teamwork or problem-solving. Be sure to provide examples of how you have used these skills in previous roles.

By including these key components in your entry-level resume, you will be able to showcase your skills and experience to potential employers and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Entry-Level Resume Sample

Looking for a job as a recent graduate or someone just starting out in their career can be tough. However, having a well-crafted entry-level resume can give you a competitive edge in the job market. Here’s a sample entry-level resume with detailed comments and explanations to help guide you through the process:

Personal Information

Name:  Samantha Johnson Address:  123 Main Street, Anytown, USA 12345 Phone:  (123) 456-7890 Email:   [email protected]

To obtain a position related to my degree in Marketing that will allow me to utilize my skills in research, analysis, and customer relations.

Bachelor of Arts in Marketing XYZ University Expected graduation date: May 2022

Course Highlights:

• Marketing Research
• Consumer Behavior
• Marketing Management
• Digital Marketing

Relevant Experience

Marketing Intern ABC Company June 2021 – August 2021

Key Responsibilities:

• Conducted market research and analyzed consumer behavior data to inform marketing strategies
• Assisted in the development of marketing materials, including product brochures and social media content
• Coordinated and executed events to promote company products and services
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to analyze data using SPSS
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Strong attention to detail

Comments and Explanations

This entry-level resume starts with personal information and a clearly defined objective that highlights the candidate’s skills and career goals. The education section showcases relevant coursework and the expected graduation date. The relevant experience section focuses on the candidate’s previous internship, detailing responsibilities and accomplishments that demonstrate her skills in research, analysis, and event coordination. The skills section highlights specific abilities and attributes that are relevant to the position, such as proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and attention to detail.

This entry-level resume sets the candidate apart by highlighting her academic accomplishments, practical experience, and unique skills. The use of clear, concise language and well-organized sections make it easy for potential employers to quickly assess the candidate’s qualifications and potential fit for the position.

Tips for Writing an Entry-Level Resume

As an entry-level job seeker, writing a compelling resume can be a daunting task. Here are five tips to help you create a winning entry-level resume:

Customize your resume based on the job description  – Take the time to read and understand the job requirements to ensure that your resume is tailored to match the specific needs of the employer.

Highlight your transferable skills  – Even if you don’t have direct experience in the field, highlight the skills you possess that could be valuable to the employer. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing position but don’t have any direct marketing experience, emphasize your skills in social media, communication, and creative writing.

Emphasize your achievements  – Rather than simply listing your responsibilities, highlight your achievements, such as completing projects on time and under budget or increasing sales revenue by a certain percentage.

Use power words and action verbs  – Strong, action-oriented language can make your accomplishments stand out. Use words like “achieved,” “created,” or “implemented” to highlight your successes and strengthen the impact of your resume.

Quantify your accomplishments  – Whenever possible, provide specific numbers that demonstrate your accomplishments. For example, instead of saying you “increased sales,” say that you “increased sales by 25%.” This helps employers understand the scope of your success and the value you can bring to their organization.

By following these tips, you can create an entry-level resume that showcases your strengths and helps you stand out in a competitive job market.

Writing an Impressive Objective Statement/Summary

The objective statement or summary is an essential part of an entry-level resume. It serves as the introduction and first impression of the candidate to the hiring manager or recruiter. The purpose of the objective statement/summary is to communicate the candidate’s career goals, skills, accomplishments, and value proposition to the employer. The objective statement/summary can help the employer to quickly assess if the candidate is a good fit for the position and the organization.

Tips for writing a compelling objective statement/summary

Be concise and clear: Keep the objective statement/summary brief, ideally two to three sentences. Avoid using jargon or complex sentences that may confuse or bore the reader. Use simple yet powerful words that convey your message effectively.

Customize to the job and the employer: Tailor your objective statement/summary to the specific job and company you are applying for. Highlight your relevant skills and experience that match the job requirements and the company’s culture and values.

Focus on your benefits to the employer: Emphasize how your skills and experience can add value to the employer’s goals and objectives. Use metrics or examples to demonstrate your achievements and impact.

Show your enthusiasm: Demonstrate your passion and motivation for the job and the industry. Convey your eagerness to learn and grow in your career.

Avoid generic or cliché statements: Avoid using overused phrases or generic statements that do not add value to your application. Be specific and authentic in your objective statement/summary.

Examples of objective statements/summaries for entry-level resumes

Marketing graduate seeking an entry-level position in digital marketing. Passionate about creating engaging content and implementing creative campaigns that drive customer engagement and brand awareness. Proficient in social media management, SEO, and analytics tools.

Recent MBA graduate with a focus on finance and a strong background in data analysis. Seeking an entry-level position in investment banking to apply my financial modeling skills and strategic mindset to drive business growth for clients. Excellent communication and collaboration skills, demonstrated by successful team projects.

Computer science graduate with a passion for programming and problem-solving. Seeking an entry-level software developer role to apply my coding skills and develop innovative solutions for complex business challenges. Proficient in Java, Python, and SQL, and always eager to learn new technologies.

Recent journalism graduate with experience in writing and editing. Seeking an entry-level position in media to apply my storytelling skills and create impactful content that informs and entertains audiences. Proficient in AP style, multimedia production, and social media management.

A well-crafted objective statement/summary can make a significant impact on an entry-level resume. By following the above tips and providing specific examples of your skills and achievements, you can impress the employer and land your dream job.

Showcasing Your Education and Academic Achievements

In an entry-level resume, showcasing your education and academic achievements is crucial. It helps demonstrate to potential employers that you have the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in your chosen field.

Significance of Education in Entry-Level Resumes

As a recent graduate or someone with limited work experience, your education is often the most impressive and relevant part of your resume. Including your education section can help your resume stand out from others and capture the attention of potential employers.

In some fields or industries, certain degrees or certifications are required. By showcasing your educational qualifications, you can show that you meet those requirements and are a qualified candidate.

Tips for Highlighting Your Academic Achievements

When highlighting your academic achievements, there are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Include Honors and Awards  – If you received any academic honors or awards, such as being on the dean’s list or earning scholarships, include them in your education section. This can help demonstrate your academic excellence and dedication.
• List Relevant Coursework  – If you are applying for a job in a specific field, consider listing relevant coursework that you completed. This can show potential employers that you have knowledge and skills related to the job.
• Include Any Relevant Certifications  – If you have any relevant certifications, such as a teaching certificate or a nursing license, include them in your education section. This can show that you have additional specialized knowledge and skills.

Examples of Impressive Education Sections in Entry-Level Resumes

Here are a few examples of impressive education sections in entry-level resumes:

Bachelor of Science in Marketing University of California, Los Angeles GPA: 3.8 Relevant Coursework: Consumer Behavior, Marketing Research, Brand Management

Honors: Dean’s List (all semesters), Marketing Association Scholarship

Master of Education in Elementary Education New York University GPA: 4.0 Relevant Coursework: Curriculum Design, Classroom Management, Child Development

Certifications: New York State Teaching Certification (Grades 1-6)

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Miami Dade College GPA: 3.9 Relevant Coursework: Anatomy and Physiology, Nursing Fundamentals, Pharmacology

Honors: Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, Academic Excellence Award

The education section of your entry-level resume should be clear, concise, and relevant to the job you are applying for. By following these tips and examples, you can create an impressive education section that highlights your academic achievements and qualifications.

Emphasizing Your Relevant Coursework and Certifications

One way to stand out in the crowded job market as an entry-level candidate is to showcase relevant coursework and certifications on your resume. These demonstrate that you have acquired specialized knowledge and skills that are critical for the job you are applying for. Here are some tips for emphasizing your relevant coursework and certifications:

Importance of showcasing relevant coursework and certifications

Relevant coursework and certifications can make your resume more appealing to potential employers because they provide evidence of your abilities and expertise. It shows employers that you are dedicated to your career and have taken steps to develop valuable skills. This is especially important for entry-level candidates who may not have much professional experience yet.

Tips for emphasizing your relevant coursework and certifications

• Place your coursework and certifications in a prominent location on your resume, such as under your education section.
• Use bullet points to highlight the most important coursework or certifications, and write a brief description of each.
• Mention any coursework or certifications that directly relate to the job you are applying for. If you’re not sure which ones are relevant, review the job description.
• Be concise and avoid overwhelming the reader with too much information. Only include the most relevant coursework and certifications.

Examples of relevant coursework and certifications sections in entry-level resumes

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, XYZ University, May 2021

• Relevant coursework: Data Structures and Algorithms, Object-Oriented Programming, Operating Systems, Computer Networks

CERTIFICATIONS

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Bachelor of Arts in Marketing, ABC University, December 2020

• Relevant coursework: Principles of Marketing, Consumer Behavior, Marketing Research, Digital Marketing

Google Ads Certification

Hubspot Inbound Marketing Certification

By highlighting relevant coursework and certifications on your resume as an entry-level candidate, you can make a strong case for your candidacy and improve your chances of landing your dream job.

Highlighting Your Relevant Experience and Internships

As an entry-level job seeker, it is important to highlight your relevant experience and internships in your resume. Doing so can increase your chances of getting noticed by employers and landing an interview.

Importance of Highlighting Relevant Experience

Employers are looking for candidates who have relevant experience that aligns with the requirements of the job. By highlighting your relevant experience and internships, you are providing evidence that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the role. This also shows that you have taken the initiative to gain experience in the field, which demonstrates your passion and dedication.

Tips for Emphasizing Your Relevant Experience and Internships

Here are some tips for emphasizing your relevant experience and internships in your entry-level resume:

• Use clear and concise language to describe your experience and internships.
• Highlight the specific tasks and responsibilities you had in each role and how they relate to the job you are applying for.
• Use bullet points to make it easy for employers to scan and understand your experience.
• Quantify your accomplishments wherever possible, such as how many clients you worked with or the percentage of cost reduction you achieved in a particular project.
• Tailor your experience and internships to the job description to show how you are a good fit for the role.

Examples of Relevant Experience and Internships Sections in Entry-Level Resumes

Here are some examples of how you can format your relevant experience and internships sections in your entry-level resume:

Relevant Experience:

Marketing Intern, XYZ Company

• Conducted market research to identify key customer needs and developed product positioning strategy that led to a 25% increase in sales.
• Worked closely with the marketing team to create social media content and email campaigns that resulted in a 15% increase in website traffic.

Internships:

Human Resources Intern, ABC Organization

• Assisted with the recruitment and selection process by reviewing resumes and conducting initial phone screens.
• Coordinated employee onboarding and orientation programs to ensure a smooth transition for new hires.
• Participated in the development of HR policies and procedures, including employee benefit programs and performance management.

By highlighting your relevant experience and internships in your entry-level resume, you can demonstrate your skills and dedication to potential employers. Use these tips and examples to create a strong and effective resume that will help you stand out in the job market.

Demonstrating Your Skills and Abilities

As a recent graduate or someone entering the job market for the first time, showcasing your skills and abilities is crucial in creating a strong entry-level resume. While you may not have extensive work experience yet, highlighting your relevant skills and abilities can demonstrate your potential to employers.

Significance of Skills and Abilities in Entry-Level Resumes

In an entry-level resume, your skills and abilities are what will set you apart from other candidates who may have similar educational backgrounds. Employers want to see that you have the necessary skills to perform well in the position they are hiring for. Additionally, highlighting your abilities can convey your strengths and qualifications to potential employers.

Tips for Showcasing Your Skills and Abilities

Here are some tips for effectively showcasing your skills and abilities in your entry-level resume:

Tailor your skills and abilities section to the job you’re applying for. Look at the job posting and identify the key skills and abilities that the employer is seeking. Then, make sure to highlight those skills in your resume.

Use strong action verbs to describe your skills and abilities. For example, instead of saying “I have experience in customer service,” say “I provided exceptional customer service, resolving conflicts and exceeding customer expectations.”

Quantify your accomplishments, whenever possible. This can help demonstrate the impact of your skills and abilities. For example, instead of saying “I improved the company’s social media presence,” say “I increased the company’s social media engagement by 30% through targeted content creation.”

Use a variety of skills and abilities. It’s important to demonstrate a diverse skill set, especially in an entry-level resume. Highlight skills that show your adaptability, willingness to learn, and ability to work with others.

Examples of Skills and Abilities Sections in Entry-Level Resumes

Here are some examples of skills and abilities sections in entry-level resumes:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Experience with social media analytics tools, such as Sprout Social and Hootsuite
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Customer service experience, with a proven track record of resolving customer complaints and inquiries
• Experience using Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator
• Proficient in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
• Experience with project management software, such as Trello and Asana
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to problem-solve and troubleshoot technical issues

By effectively showcasing your skills and abilities, you can make a strong impression on potential employers and increase your chances of landing an interview. With these tips and examples, you can create an entry-level resume that highlights your strengths and potential as a valuable employee.

Mistakes to Avoid in an Entry-Level Resume

When it comes to crafting an entry-level resume, it’s important to avoid certain mistakes that can hinder your chances of landing a job. Here are some of the most common mistakes made in entry-level resumes:

• Irrelevant information:  Including irrelevant information such as your hobbies, family background, or physical attributes can make your resume look unprofessional and unappealing to hiring managers.
• Poor formatting:  A cluttered and confusing resume layout can make it difficult for hiring managers to find the information they need to evaluate your candidacy properly.
• Lack of focus:  Failing to tailor your resume to a specific job opening can give the impression that you don’t have a clear career direction or aren’t serious about the position.
• Lack of experience:  Entry-level candidates often struggle to fill their resumes with relevant work experience, but failing to demonstrate any applicable skills or experience could lead to disqualification.

To avoid these pitfalls, it’s essential to approach your entry-level resume with care and attention to detail. Here are some tips for crafting an effective entry-level resume:

• Focus on relevance:  Highlight relevant experience, education, and skills that align with the position you’re applying for, and omit anything that isn’t directly relevant.
• Use a clean and concise layout:  Make your resume visually appealing, easy to read, and keep it to one page if possible.
• Customize your resume for each job:  Match your resume keywords with the job description to showcase your suitability for the role.
• Highlight transferable skills:  Even if you haven’t yet held a job in your desired field, you can still draw on skills gained from volunteer work, internships, or extracurricular activities.

Here are some examples of problematic entry-level resumes, and how they could be improved:

• How to improve:  Josh could use bullet points to separate his skills from his experience, and create a separate section for his education and accomplishments.
• How to improve:  Tiffany should stick to relevant information including her education, work experience, and skills to showcase how she is qualified for the position.
• How to improve:  David should tailor his resume for each specific job opening he applies for and emphasize those skills, experience and education that are directly relevant to the position.

By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, an entry-level resume can set you apart from the competition as a strong candidate for the job at hand.

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Entry-Level Resume Writing Guide

Get a headstart with an entry-level resume format

Certified Professional Resume Writer

Entry-level resume writing involves studying the candidate and their goals in order to construct an effective, customized resume for a new or different line of work.

When it comes to  creating an entry-level resume , the case may be that the applicant does not have very much or  relevant work experience  for the position they’re interested in.

It’s also important to understand the difference between first resumes for teenagers, for college students and freshers, a first job resume, and  entry-level . The latter focuses more on  building a career  in that specific area.

This means that  standing out in the application process for an entry-level position  can be somewhat difficult, which is why we’ve created this  writing guide to help entry-level jobseekers compile a comprehensive, tailored resume  to kick start their career.

But do not worry! There are many ways of  catching the eye of potential recruiters  through a  resume without work experience  by inviting the reader to get to know your character, skills, potential, and other achievements that make you the ideal entry-level candidate.

Tips for writing your entry-level resume

Due to the general nature of  entry-level candidates  having little to no work experience, the content and layout of these types of resumes are crucial to attracting potential employers.

Check out the following guide to find some tips and tricks of the trade for  writing entry-level resumes :

The hardest thing about  writing an entry-level resume  is deciding what the goal is; which direction the applicant wants to go in. Once that is clear, the rest will practically write itself.

If you need help figuring this out, try answering the following questions to get a clearer  idea of the target audience for your resume :

• What work or projects have I done in the past that motivate me?
• In which field or profession can I see myself in 10 years?
• What skills do I have that can be applied to an occupation?

With the objective in mind, the candidate can start by choosing  which format is best for an entry-level resume  and specifically the ideal resume structure for each position or company they apply to.

There are 3 main  resume formats  which include the most popular  chronological resume, the functional (skills-based) and combination or hybrid resume .

Depending on each individual’s background and skills it may be preferable to use one of the less  traditional resume types  such as the functional or  combination resume  which either focuses more heavily on the qualities and attributes of each candidate or  emphasizes both skills and work experience  without highlighting one more than the other. These are often  optimal for applicants with little to no professional experience  such as students or individuals seeking entry-level positions.

• To  complete a winning entry-level resume , applicants should demonstrate various  marketable skills and relevant industry knowledge  through the different areas they include in their document, detailing the ways they’ve earned or developed these qualities.
• Another top tip when writing a resume for freshers or graduates with little to no work experience is the inclusion of keywords. The importance of keywords cannot be stressed enough as it is the  best method for passing  Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)  and grabbing the attention of hiring managers  who are looking for specific attributes for each position.

Use the job description as a guide to find the best keywords for each vacancy

• Finally, before sending an entry-level resume, it is essential that all candidates  review their final resume  to ensure that it is correctly adapted for the position offered. This means including the appropriate keywords and relevant information. Perhaps most importantly, check that the  polished entry-level resume does not have any typos or mistakes , because even a small error can lose the applicant the chance at an interview for their dream job!

Remember, if you’re not sure of  how to write an entry-level resume  from scratch, you can either choose from a  selection of entry-level resume templates  to help or even use an online resume builder as a guide.

Writing your first resume: Sections to include

No matter the resume format chosen, each  entry-level resume should include the following sections  as standard and provide all the relevant information to the prospective employer clearly and concisely in one place.

At the  very beginning of all entry-level resumes , candidates should supply a brief statement regarding their  career objective  which should be no more than 3-4 lines.

This part is vital to  capture the attention of the Hiring Manager or HR personnel  who will be reviewing resumes to find suitable candidates for the interview stage.

To make it through this first step, it is essential to include in these few lines the most  important skills that a candidate will bring to the position , making sure to use keywords from the job description, a reference to their relevant experience, and if applicable, their credentials.

The education section plays an important role when writing resumes for freshers or those just out of college , as the candidate may have little to no experience in the workplace and will rely more heavily on their academic achievements. According to the  AACU , 95% of recruiters give hiring preference to candidates with college degrees.

Each degree, course, or diploma should be separated and detailed individually with corresponding names, dates, awarding bodies, and grades if applicable,  beginning with the most recent and following a chronological order . We only recommend including your GPA if it is 3.0 or higher.

Also, this is the best area to  show off your academic awards and accolades  that you’ve gained through research, investigation, participating in school or college societies, or through extra-curricular courses. Here you will find a complete guide on  how to write and format the education section  on a resume.

Within the  Work Experience section of an entry-level resume  candidates should detail any paid or unpaid previous jobs they have held whether full or part-time, temporary or permanent contracts as well as internships and voluntary positions, indicating the dates, roles, companies and locations for each.

Additionally, an  entry-level applicant should include in their resume any leadership positions  they have undertaken and describe the responsibilities, achievements and improvements accomplished through their participation.

This area should be adapted to fit the role or sector that the applicant is applying for using specific keywords and including  action verbs to identify areas of expertise  and general abilities. Only supply relevant  work experience  that can be tailored to fit the vacancy.

In  entry-level resumes the skills section is vital . It helps to market a candidate and allows potential employers to understand each individual profile. It is essential to make this part of an entry-level resume because an applicant needs to highlight their suitability for the position through their abilities.

In this section,  entry-level candidates  can showcase their  technical and practical skills  including IT programs, languages, and ‘soft skills’ which allure more to the individual character, professional manner, and their working methods. A study by  LinkedIn  suggests that  80% of employers  want to see good soft skills from potential hires.

It is also important to  include keywords from the job description  and vacancy advert as well as adapt the top skills to fit the role adequately.

Luckily for entry-level candidates, Hiring Managers are often used to seeing resumes from freshers who do not have much professional experience. This means they will be paying more attention to the skills sections to find out if the candidate possesses the correct skill set for the job.

First Resume for a Teenager

As young students reach an age where they start to look for  first jobs or summer work , they come up against the first challenge in the job hunt: resume writing!

And although  resume writing for teenagers can be tough  at times, nothing is impossible!

Read on for  tips on how to write a teenager’s first resume .

• First things first, as young people often have little to  no paid work experience  to detail, it is recommended that entry-level candidates use a functional or skills-based resume format to showcase a  blend of skills and activities that benefit teenage jobseekers .
• Secondly, as an extra support there are hundreds of specific first job or teenage resume templates to use which are hugely advantageous  providing a structure, advice and examples for first resume writers .
• The next step is to consider the  content of a teenager resume , including the headings and texts. Teenagers are often active participants in social and athletic groups which allow them to develop  skills and experiences that are crucial to mention on a first resume . These activities can be detailed under the headings ‘education,’ ‘experience,’ ‘extra activities,’ ‘achievements,’ etc.
• Finally, when the content is compiled, it is vital that a  teenager ALWAYS edits and reviews the first resume  as much as possible; even ask a teacher, coach or parent to take a look for you to ensure 100% that there are  no grammar or spelling errors , confusions or irrelevant information which could put a hiring manager off contacting you.

Whether you’re looking to go straight into work from school or need a  first resume for an internship  or college application or an entry-level position in a business where you’d then like to work your way up the ladder, a general rule to follow is use your  unique knowledge and individuality  to stand out so that the potential employer gets a feel for what kind of worker you will be.

Entry-Level Resume Templates

Take a look at our  entry-level resume template library  for the  best resume samples  for entry-level positions and choose the one that can be best customized to your needs.

A useful tool for learning  how to make a resume for entry-level positions  is to use a  resume example  which can serve as a basis for all the positions you apply for.

Although these samples give  examples of what to put in each resume section , it is essential that all candidates remember to  adapt their resume to their chosen field  and the specific vacancy available.

Templates like this offer you a tried-and-tested  structure to take as a starting point  and also provide advice on  how to complete each resume section  with guides as to what to include and what you should avoid in order to attract the right employers.

Making an entry-level resume which stands out  in the search for a job can be made simpler also by employing an online resume builder.  Resume creators  allow jobseekers to make and download their finished resumes straight from the internet to start applying right away.

These  expert-approved resume templates  for professionals  highlight the skills and experience  that each individual includes and allows the jobseeker to improve the impact of their application.

Struggling with Resume Writing?

Ease the process with our templates

Resume Summary with No Experience: Examples for Students and Fresh Graduates

By Biron Clark

Published: December 18, 2023

Recent Grads | Resume/CV

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

If you’re looking for how to write a summary for your resume with no work experience , you’ve come to the right place. I’m going to walk you through exactly what to do, and then we’ll look at resume summary examples for entry-level job seekers, students and fresh graduates. 

How to Write a Summary For Your Resume With No Experience:

First, a resume summary is different than an objective . And it’s much better. Putting an objective on your resume is outdated and unnecessary. Resume objectives are useless because they don’t share anything the hiring manager doesn’t already know (such as “my goal is to obtain a position in the ___ industry”). So what we’re doing here is better and will help your resume stand out from people who simply put an objective. Whereas, the resume summary gives a quick highlight reel of your qualifications, education, and more. If you’re not sure what a resume summary actually is, check out this article on 10 resume summary examples . And while it’s easier to figure out what to put if you’ve built up some work experience, you can still write an effective resume summary with no work experience whatsoever.

So in this article, I’m going to show you how. What should go into your summary when you don’t have any work experience? 

1. Put academic accomplishments and leadership

What did you study? Did you just graduate with a degree? Mention that. If you took a leadership role in your class projects, or clubs/groups at your school, you can mention that too. Leadership doesn’t need to be in a job to get the hiring manager’s attention! Taking a leadership role in a sports environment is impressive as well. You’re not going to mention specific accomplishments in your resume summary usually (you can do that later in your resume), but you can say things like “proven leadership” or “natural leader”, etc.

2. Put your interests and passions

Are you passionate about startups and technology? Great, put that. Want to make a difference in the world, and focus your career on social impact? Mention that. This can include the grades you received, but also leadership positions you led, and clubs/groups you participated in.

3. Put “hard” skills

If you’re proficient in any tools, technologies, etc… you can include that in your resume summary. Don’t list 20 things. That’s what your “Skills” section is for. But pick the three or four things that are most relevant for the job you’re applying for.

Coming up in this article, we’re going to look at two resume summary examples for people with no experience. .. and in the second example, you’ll see how this would look.

4. Include soft skills

Are you great at analytical thinking? Do you love working as a part of a team? Are you great at multi-tasking and handling a fast-paced team environment? While these shouldn’t be the main focus of your resume summary section, they can be worth mentioning. It’s especially good to include soft skills that you see mentioned in the job description.

For example, if you see they mention wanting someone who’s great at multi-tasking in a fast-paced environment, and you feel that describes you well, then your resume summary is the perfect place to include this.

5. Put statements that will grab the employer’s interest and make them want to ask you questions!

If you mention leadership they’ll want to ask you more about your leadership experiences. That’s a good thing. Remember, whatever you put, they’ll probably ask you about. So as you write your summary for your resume, try to think about what you want them to discuss with you, and what you want a chance to talk about. And try to “tailor” your resume to fit the companies you’re applying to. If you’re applying to large corporations don’t start your summary by saying “Startup enthusiast”.

3 Resume Summary Example for Students, Fresh Graduates and Entry-Level Job Seekers:

In this section, I’m going to share three examples of how to write a summary for your resume with no experience. You can use these resume summary examples as a student, entry-level job seeker, or any job search where you don’t have experience:

Resume Summary with No Experience – Example #1: Economics Student

Enthusiastic, highly-motivated Economics student with proven leadership capabilities, who likes to take initiative and seek out new challenges.

In this example above, you’re showing that you completed your Economics degree and have an interest in the subject, and you’re mentioning leadership and making the reader want to learn more about this. You’re also making yourself sound ambitious and motivated at the end, which is always a good thing (I’m referring to the part that says “who likes to take initiative and seek out new challenges). Notice the format too. This is how I recommend phrasing it. Don’t say “I am a ___”. Just start with the descriptive words.

This is a simple yet effective resume summary example for students OR recent graduates.

Resume Summary with No Experience – Example #2: Fresh Graduate in Computer Science

Computer Science graduate passionate about data engineering and machine learning. Highly-capable leader, having led multiple Senior class projects to completion. Proficient in a range of modern technologies including Python, Java and Scala.

This is another good example of a student or fresh graduate resume summary that still shows your skills and academic focus, even if you have no formal work experience.  In this entry-level resume summary example, you’re highlighting accomplishments and leadership as a student and you’re also showing that you’re passionate about your work. Saying you’re passionate about data engineering is much better than just saying, “Looking for a job in data engineering.” They’ll know you’re looking for jobs because you applied. Taking up space to say it is a bad use of this area of your resume, and is why I never recommend having a resume “Objective” section. The summary exists instead of an “Objective” and is much better.

The example above also included some great programming keywords (Python, Java, Scala) to help get past any automated application systems and grab the hiring manager’s attention very quickly when they first look at your resume. If you work with any tools or technologies that have names like these, you can include it in your entry-level resume summary if you’d like. Other examples of tools/technologies: Photoshop, MS Excel, etc.

If you decide not to include these on your resume summary, make sure to include them elsewhere such as your Education or Skills section .

Resume Summary Example with No Experience #3: Math Student Graduating Soon

4th year mathematics student passionate about statistics and data analysis. Proven project leader. Active member of Boston University’s Mathematics Club. Speaker at 2018 “New York Young Mathematicians Conference.”

This resume summary example for students shows how you can list accomplishments even if you’ve never formally worked before. Did you participate in any clubs at school? Have you led any class projects? These are impressive pieces you can add to your resume summary with no experience formally working. 

How to Write a Resume Summary For Students/Fresh Graduates – Quick Recap

• Skip buzzwords like “hard-working” and put real academic accomplishments instead, like projects you produced and tasks you led
• Include what you’re interested in and passionate about to show them why you are applying for this position
• Mention hard skills like “Java Programming” or “Excel,”  especially if they’re listed on the job description
• Include soft skills as well like, “excellent at multi-tasking”, especially if you saw these keywords anywhere on the job description
• Include statements in your resume summary that will catch the employer’s interest and make them want to talk with you and ask you more. Remember – the entire goal of your resume is to get invited to interview. So if you did anything unique like giving presentations, working in an internship , participating in a school club, etc., you can include this in your entry-level resume summary.

If you follow the tips above, you’ll have a great entry-level resume summary that will stand out and catch a recruiter’s or hiring manager’s attention so you can get more interviews.

After you write your entry-level resume summary, here are two more articles that may be helpful when job searching with no experience:

• The best times of year to job search
• How to create a great elevator pitch for job hunting

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

More Resume Tips & Guides

Crafting the perfect resume for teens (template & expert advice), career change interview tips, resume tips and more, how much does a resume writer cost (average price and ranges), walk me through your resume: answer examples, applying for jobs out of state this resume tip can help, how long should a resume be, how to put direct and indirect reports (and other data) on your resume, what makes a good resume 9 ways to know, 11 common resume mistakes to avoid, career change resume: examples and tips from experts, 7 thoughts on “resume summary with no experience: examples for students and fresh graduates”.

This site was pretty helpful in guiding me throughout my school resume, would love other tips would do well.

This is a great guide. If only schools were actually interested in teaching children real life skills like this.

Hi, I am a student who has been finding it very difficult to make resumes due to the lack of working experience. I am currently trying to find a job while studying at the same time. I am in University completing a certificate and will soon be applying for a BA in Psychology and Criminolgy. However, I wish to apply for a part time job in the fashion industry. Can you please leave me some tips about what I can do to ensure that I can find a job without needing experience.

Your page has really helped, Thank you.

Hi, I’m a job seeker with 2 years experience working as a cart collector at grocery store and an Associate’s Degree in Computer Information Systems, is this a good professional summary?: “Reliable team member with a keen interest in information technology and other applications. Capable of handling multiple projects within deadlines. Eager to apply my professional and academic background as an Administrative Assistant at Bogdan Contracting.”

I’ve been job seeking since October 2018, I’m hoping I can start a career in tech support as soon as possible.

Hi Marcais,

I think it sounds pretty good. My least favorite part is the first word, though. “Reliable” sounds pretty average/boring. Sure, you show up, do your job, etc. That’s what I think when I hear “reliable”. But not much more.

I’d look for a better word to lead off with.

I would like to say thank you for making this article about writing a summary for a resume. For the past couple of months, I have been struggling to find someone who can help me with that because I don’t have a lot of experience in my field (i.e. engineering). I do have one question though. Is it appropriate to use first-person nouns in the summary section? I have seen people do that, but I find it quite odd.

Please let me know as soon as you can. Thank you.

Hi Frances,

I’d avoid saying, “I” if that’s what you’re asking.

Just say “Led team of 7 people to accomplish ___”

Just start without a pronoun.

Another example: “Highly-accomplished accounting professional who has ____”

Comments are closed.

Resume Sections for Every Type of Job Seeker (With Examples!)

3 key takeaways from the post

• What resume sections should you have in your resume 
• Does the order of your resume sections matter
• How to use the Teal AI Resume Builder to create a document personalized to your experience

If you want to land your next interview fast, a sleek and professional resume isn't a luxury; it's an absolute must. Plus, with all the free resume-building tools at your disposal, the expectation is higher than ever that you'll provide personalized application materials tailored to a specific role, manager, and company. 

But for all those free tools, building your resume still isn't as straightforward as you might think. 

Lengthy gaps in your work history, lack of experience, education, or drastic career changes can make it hard to know which essential resume sections you should focus on ( and where to put them! ).  

In this article, you'll learn the answers to the question most job seekers ask when building a resume: "Wait, which part goes where and why?"

What resume sections should you have in your resume?

A resume typically has a combination of some (or all) of the following elements:

• Contact Information
• Target Title
• Professional Summary 
• Work Experience
• Certifications
• Optional – Projects – Awards and Scholarships – Volunteering and Leadership – Publications – Interests

Many of these end up on all resumes (Contact, Target Title, Professional Summary, etc.). But in some cases, you'll have to choose whether or not to include some optional resume sections (like Projects, Awards, etc.).

The best answer to this ultimately depends on the role you're building a resume for, what your experience looks like, and how much you have.

1200+ In-Depth Resume Examples and Guidance

If you're reading this as a primer before you start building, we recommend exploring these 2023 resume examples curated around different roles. Browse these samples to help you with your resume.

Let's look at each of these sections in more detail. 

1. Contact Information 

Your contact information should be at the very top of your resume. You want employers to have easy access to these details to get in touch with you for an interview.

This section should include:

• Phone number
• Professional email address
• LinkedIn profile URL (optional)
• Portfolio URL (optional)

Many people think you need to provide your physical address, but this isn't necessary. Your email address and phone number are more than enough for any hiring manager to reach you. 

2. Target Title 

A target title, or resume title , is a brief description of the role you're applying for. It sits directly beneath your contact information and above your professional resume section.

Your target title aligns your resume with the specific job you're applying for. It's also a quick reference to your understanding of the position, and it instantly lets the hiring manager know what role you're applying to.

For example, your target title might be "Marketing Coordinator" or "Software Developer."

3. Professional Summary 

A professional summary, or  resume summary , serves as a concise introduction that shines a spotlight on your most relevant qualifications and achievements.

Just below your "Contact Information" and "Target Title" resume sections, this particular resume section is an invaluable tool for grabbing the attention of recruiters, hiring managers, and prospective employers—encouraging them to dig deeper into the rest of your resume.

If you're worried about whether or not to use a summary or objective, rather than discussing future career goals or a resume objective, a resume summary zeroes in on your  relevant  skills, experiences, and highest achievements. Think of it as a highlight reel of your professional journey, emphasizing the key milestones and competencies that make you the ideal candidate for the job.

For your professional resume summary to be as effective as possible, it's crucial to tailor it specifically for the position you're applying to. To do this:

• Read the job posting
• Make a note of important keywords like skills or qualifications
• Align your hard or technical skills, soft skills, experience, and impact to the job's requirements using those same keywords

And just like every job is different, every summary will be slightly different, too. But, for the most impact, each one you write should:

• Include a time-based statement, for example: "With 4 years of experience…"  
• Include at least two relevant skills and their related impact 
• Be between 3-5 sentences—no more
• Use the first-person voice, for example: "I've led the implementation of..." 

4. Work Experience 

Your "Work Experience" section is the heart of your resume. This will tell hiring managers whether or not you have the necessary experience to accomplish the job you're applying for. 

You'll most likely want to list your work history in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position as long as it's relevant to the position you're applying for.

Remember, the job of your resume is to showcase the top 10% of your experience that's relevant to the job you're applying to.

For each role, include the following:

• Company name
• Dates of employment (month and year)
• 3-5 accomplishments per role

And when listing your resume accomplishments as bullet points, use quantifiable achievements alongside skills to highlight your impact, such as:

"Increased sales by 20% through data analysis using Tableau and leveraging effective communication and relationship building." or " Reduced project completion time by 15% by implementing Jira, Agile, and bi-weekly Sprint Review meetings. "

The goal is to show a hiring manager that you can do more than just "talk the talk." Instead, you've proven yourself a valuable asset on teams in the past by showcasing your impact. 

5. Education 

In the "Education" section of your resume , list your relevant academic qualifications, including the degree earned, the institution's name, and the completion date.

If you're a recent graduate, consider adding your GPA (if it's above 3.0) and any relevant coursework or extracurricular activities you achieved while in school.

Pro Tip: If you find yourself short on space but have multiple degrees, your resume "Education" section can just present your highest level of education.

6. Certifications 

Certifications on a resume . They demonstrate your commitment to professional development and expertise in specific skills or industries. 

And while this can be considered one of the optional resume sections, there are many professions that actually require specific certifications—making it essential. For example, a project management role might require a PMP, while a software engineering position might require an Oracle Java Certification, etc.

If you have relevant certifications, list them along with the issuing organization and the date obtained.

The "Skills" section on your resume is an opportunity to highlight your most relevant and in-demand skills.

While your soft skills (like communication, teamwork, or problem-solving) should be incorporated throughout the other sections of your resume alongside impact, a dedicated "Skills" section is optimal for listing your hard skills or technical skills (such as specific programming languages or data analysis tools).

You'll want to tailor your resume "Skills" section to each job posting, focusing on those most applicable to the role.

9. Projects

If you've completed any significant projects relevant to the job you're applying for, consider adding a projects section in your resume . This includes work projects, academic, freelance, or personal projects demonstrating your skills and capabilities. 

Be sure to include a brief description of the project, your role, and any quantifiable results or accomplishments.

10. Awards and Scholarships

Awards and scholarships differentiate you from other candidates, offer evidence of your skills and competencies, and underscore how aligned your qualifications are with the position you're seeking.

Scholarships and awards on a resume should be as relevant to the job description as possible. Especially if you're a recent graduate, these accolades can add depth and dimension to your resume sections, highlighting your dedication, achievements, and potential for future impact and growth.

11. Volunteering and Leadership

Volunteering and leadership experiences offer a glimpse into your commitment to bettering the community and can highlight how well you align with company culture and values. These roles underscore your responsibility, time management, and other essential skills that potentially resonate with employers.

Much like the basic resume sections, listing volunteer work on a resume should be as relevant to the role as possible.

For example, suppose you're applying for a marketing management position. In that case, you might emphasize spearheading a fundraising campaign for a local charity or preparing compelling copy for nonprofit promotions. These experiences showcase your marketing skills and highlight your ability to apply them in diverse settings.

12. Publications

Publications showcase your enthusiasm and serve as tangible proof of your specialized knowledge and abilities.

Whether you're credited as the writer or cited as a specialist, and especially if you have minimal professional experience, adding this insight into your resume sections can boost your authenticity and give your resume a distinctive edge.

13. Interests 

Adding hobbies and interests on a resume can be a strategic way to showcase your personality and differentiate you.

But including things you enjoy or activities comes with one firm guideline: It's only a good idea if they're relevant to the role you're applying to.

The following example belongs to a candidate applying for a data analyst position. Each hobby is applicable to the role.

Whatever you do, keep this section brief and relevant. While activities and hobbies on a resume can give potential employers insights into your character, skills, and adaptability, you should avoid any controversial or potentially polarizing topics like religious affiliation or politics unless you're pursuing a role in one of those specific areas. 

How to order your resume sections

Your order of resume sections depends on your level of experience and the role you're applying for.

Unfortunately, there is no "one-size-fits-all" answer to your resume section's order. It all depends on you.

If you have work experience that isn't relevant or are a student or recent graduate, the resume order of information might be presented differently to highlight your relevant qualifications and skills.

Does the order of a resume section matter?

There is no one perfect resume, but at the end of the day, the order of resume sections matters for showcasing the right skills and most applicable experience for the role you're applying to.

That said, if you have traditional work experience, a chronological resume format will be the one most easily recognized by a hiring manager or recruiter. That typically orders information as follows:

1. Contact Information

2. Target Title

4. Work Experience

5. Education

6. Certifications

Optional: – Projects – Awards and Scholarships – Volunteering and Leadership – Publications – Interests

But sometimes, there might be a better option than a chronological order format. 

Perhaps you're returning from a long professional break, just leaving school, or changing careers altogether.

In those cases, you might need to decide on the best resume format to highlight all you have to offer. 

Need to reorder your resume, drop a section, or add something new to align your qualifications with the role you're applying for? Try the free Teal AI Resume Builder formatting feature. Using the Drag-and-Drop Editor, you can organize your resume to suit your needs as often as you'd like.

Now, let's focus on which resume sections you should include when a traditional format doesn't work.  

What sections to put in your resume (no experience)

Resume sections for career pivoters.

If you plan to switch industries or job roles, a career change resume should be tailored to highlight your transferable skills and experiences relevant to your new position. 

That means instead of using a chronological format, you should create a hybrid resume. This structure will allow you to focus on your relevant skills and any other experiences, making it easier for potential employers to determine how well you align with a role.

Hybrid resumes usually contain the following resume sections:

• Contact Information 
• Certifications 
• Work Experience 
• Optional resume sections: – Projects – Volunteering and Leadership – Interests

Here's a good example of what a resume might look like when you're changing careers: 

Note that it places the "Professional Resume Summary," "Skills," and "Certification" sections before any relevant details. 

Bonus : Remember, the structure of your resume is important, but so is the content. Try these tips to better highlight your transferable skills in your resume:

• Customize your summary: Use the summary or short professional bio to showcase your transferable skills and experiences.
• Showcase relevant projects: If you've  completed any projects, side gigs, or volunteer work related to your new career, include a "Projects" section in your resume.
• Include professional development and certifications: Include any relevant professional development courses, workshops, or certifications you've completed in a separate section on your resume to demonstrate your commitment to staying current with industry trends and developing new skills.

The trick is to make sure you convey how the relevant skills from your past work experiences can be applied to your future professional challenges. 

With Teal, you can actually write major sections of your resume with generative AI: 

Use the AI integration within Teal's AI Resume Builder to generate your professional summary.

This allows you to break through the blank page and create better resumes in less time. 

Sign up for your free Teal account today!  

Resume sections for new college grads

Recent graduates might be concerned about making a resume with no work experience when entering the job market. But your resume can still effectively showcase your skills, education, and accomplishments to help you land that job interview.

For that, you'll likely want to use a resume format that prioritizes skills and overall experiences rather than the timeline of your work history.

Sometimes called a functional resume format, consider arranging your resume sections like this:

• Contact information 
• Education (Including relevant coursework)
• Work history (If applicable) 

Feel free to list relevant coursework, academic projects, or any extracurricular activities that showcase your skills and knowledge applicable to the job.

Applying to new jobs can be intimidating, especially when you're just entering the workforce and you've never been through the application process before. 

Consider the following tips to help you create a resume that, at the very least, gets your foot in the door: 

1. Focus on your education: As a recent graduate, your education is one of your most valuable assets. Place the education section near the top of your resume, right after your professional summary.

2. Internships and part-time jobs: If you've completed or held part-time jobs during your college years, include them in your work experience section. 

3. Volunteer work and extracurricular activities: Volunteering and activities can help demonstrate your commitment to the industry, leadership qualities, and teamwork skills. 

4. Skills section: As a recent graduate, you may have acquired various hard skills through coursework, internships, or extracurricular activities. 

5. Awards and scholarships: If you've received any relevant academic honors, scholarships, or awards during college, include a section on your resume to highlight these accomplishments. 

While you may not have spent much "time in the trenches" in your field, you may find yourself at an advantage. Some hiring managers will be eager to bring fresh talent that they don't need to retrain. 

What sections to put in your resume (varied experience)

Resume sections for entry-level job seekers.

You may wonder how to create a resume that effectively showcases your skills and potential to employers as an entry-level job seeker. Even with limited work experience, your resume can still help you stand out in the job market. 

Let's start with the type of resume you'll likely want. 

If you have some work experience under your belt (even just a year or two), you'll likely want to go with a hybrid resume format. This blends your limited work history with technical skills to demonstrate you have what it takes to work at the company.

A hybrid resume will likely have the following sections: 

• Professional Summary
• Work History (including internships)
• Certifications (if applicable) 

Here's an example of a hybrid resume format with someone who has a few years of experience but may still need to take an entry-level role if switching companies:

In some cases, you might not have any work experience. For that, a functional or skills-based resume would be fitting (like we saw for new grads). 

When crafting your first resume , however, keep the following in mind:

• Start with a professional summary: A professional summary is a great way to introduce yourself to potential employers and express where you are in your career. Use it to explain your passion for the industry and how you hope to contribute to the company in a few sentences.
• Focus on internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work: Any internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work you have completed can help demonstrate your ability to apply skills in real-world situations. Be sure to frame each of these experiences in a way that connects them to the role you're applying for. 
• Skills section: Your skills section is an opportunity to highlight your technical and soft skills relevant to the job. 

And remember: this is the hardest resume you'll ever have to write. As you advance in your career, you'll add more experience to strengthen your application in the future. 

Resume sections for mid-level and experienced professionals

At this stage in the game, you've got some professional experience under your belt with concrete results to show for it. For mid-level and experienced professionals, a traditional reverse chronological order format is commonly used to showcase their career progression and relevant work experience. 

This format emphasizes your recent positions and accomplishments, highlighting your growth and expertise. Here are the sections you'll need:

• Optional: – Projects – Awards – Publications

Here's an example of a reverse chronological order resume: 

But going after more senior-level roles can get competitive. That's why you should follow these three tips when crafting your resume: 

1. Highlight leadership and management experience

As a mid to senior-level professional, emphasize your leadership and management abilities. Showcase your experience leading teams, managing projects, and driving strategic initiatives.

2. Quantify achievements and impact

To demonstrate the tangible results of your work, quantify your achievements wherever possible. Include metrics in percentages and concrete numbers to showcase your impact in previous roles. 

For example, mention the percentage increase in sales you achieved, the cost savings you implemented, or the number of clients you managed. Quantifying your accomplishments helps recruiters and hiring managers understand the value you can bring to their organization.

3. Emphasize strategic thinking and problem-solving skills

Employers seek professionals who can think strategically and solve complex problems at the mid to senior level. Highlight your ability to analyze situations, develop innovative solutions, and make data-driven decisions. Include examples of critical projects or challenges you successfully navigated, showcasing your problem-solving skills and strategic mindset.

4. Demonstrate industry knowledge and thought leadership

As an experienced professional, showcasing your industry knowledge and thought leadership is important. Mention any industry-specific certifications, publications, or presentations you have participated in. Highlight your involvement in professional associations or conferences. This demonstrates your commitment to staying updated with industry trends and your expertise in the field.

So far, we've seen the resume sections you need for career pivoters, new grads, and professionals in every stage of their careers. 

Now, let's turn our attention to the nuts and bolts of the issue: how to bring that resume to life. 

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How to create a resume that’s structured for your career

The best way to create a resume structured to your job is with Teal's AI Resume Builder . 

Step One: Sign up for Teal

Signing up for Teal is a simple and quick process. Just click on this link to get started.

Step Two: Build your resume 

Navigate to the "Resume Builder" icon on the left side and click on it. From there, select "New Resume" at the top.

If you prefer to create your resume from scratch, you have the option to import content from your LinkedIn profile with just one click:

Now, you'll be ready to format your resume based on where you are in your career. 

Step 3: Determine your resume format 

Throughout this post, you learned about the importance of choosing the right resume sections for you. The format of your resume will change depending on whether you're a new grad, an entry-level employee, or a seasoned professional moving up the ranks. 

Teal makes this easy with pre-made templates.

Teal's Templates

Straight from your dashboard, click the "Formatting" icon in the top menu bar:

Format and use professional templates with Teal's AI Resume Builder to make your resume stand out:

Next, you can modify the following template settings:

• Accent color
• Date alignment
• Date format
• Work experience groupings
• Work experience date range

Each of these settings can be changed with a clickable drop-down menu. To learn more about Teal's template selection and what they look like, you can explore over 100 of our resume templates here .

Optimize your resume sections with Teal

Every section of your resume tells a part of your professional story.

And whether or not you're just starting out or a seasoned pro, the Teal AI Resume Builder gives you full control over how you format sections of a resume so you can structure your story the way that's best for you!  

Ready to get started?

Sign up for Teal today and start building the application materials you need to advance your career. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i know which sections are most important for my resume.

The most important sections to include will depend on your experience level and the type of job you're applying for. As a general rule, the Work Experience and Skills sections should take priority. For recent grads, emphasize Education. For career changers, focus on transferable skills. The key is choosing sections that allow you to showcase your qualifications.

Should I include references on my resume?

No, you do not need to include references or “References Available Upon Request” on your resume anymore. Simply have a separate reference list prepared to provide employers when requested. Use the extra space to highlight your skills and achievements instead.

How far back should I go with work experience on my resume?

In general, only include about 10-15 years of relevant professional work experience on your resume. Anything older than that is unlikely to be of interest or seem dated. However, influential or senior-level roles from early in your career could still be included if highly relevant. The key is making sure your resume focuses on your most recent, impressive achievements.

Nathan Thompson

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