Jumping from a sample to the real deal, let’s talk about how to format your resume like a pro.
If you’re applying for a job for the first time, you probably need some advice on how to write a resume.
Try to tackle this task step by step:
Step 1: Resume format and designs
At first, you might feel the urge to blend right in using the most popular resume format you see while searching online. However, keep in mind the functional resume format, which focuses on your skills and achievements over practical experience, is the best for a teen drafting their first application.
Choose a modern resume template to show you’re bringing novelty, and:
- Highlight your experience with a one-page resume. When it comes to length, less is more, especially if you’re just starting out.
- Keep margins between 0.5” and 1 for better readability. Our resume builder lets you adjust the margin size with a quick swipe of the slider.
- A single-column layout works great for people with limited or no experience. It allows you to present minimal content on the page in a way that looks substantial.
- Incorporate some color into your resume, potentially matching the colors of the company you’re applying to. Use easily readable fonts like Rubik or Lato, sized 10-12 pt.
Step 2: Top sections
Since your high school resume doesn't need to follow a standard format, you can organize the resume sections more flexibly. This allows you to include unique sections that might not typically appear on standard resumes and order those in the way that makes most sense for your experience.
However, ensure you still cover essential elements, such as:
- Personal information
- Objective statement
- Skills
- Education
- Experience or activities
We’ll review each of these below.
Step 3: Resume header
A well-structured resume header will make your resume look polished and professional.
Here’s the contact information you should include:
- Your name: first name and surname are enough.
- A title: you can get creative here. If you’re up for it, put something that grabs attention, like Visionary Scholar, Tech Wizard or Code Conqueror. Use your creativity to make your resume stand out.
- Professional email address: skip the “[email protected]”. It’s best if you create a new one, such as [email protected].
- Physical address: as a teen or a recent high school graduate, you’re probably considering workplaces close to where you live. Recruiters prefer to hire local candidates, so it’s a win-win!
- Phone number: while you might relish in exchanging voice messages, phone calls are still very much a thing in the professional world.
Think about the market’s preferences – a Canadian resume, for instance, could have a different layout.