If you have little or no work experience, writing a resume can feel difficult. The good news is that you can still create a strong resume even without previous jobs.
Employers understand that everyone starts somewhere. This guide explains exactly what to include on a resume when you have no experience.
Start With Contact Information
At the top of your resume include:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Email address
- City and state
Example:
Michael Brown
Chicago, Illinois
michael@email.com
555-123-9876
Make sure your contact information is correct.
Add a Simple Resume Summary
A summary introduces you to employers.
Keep it short and simple.
Example:
“Motivated and dependable individual seeking an entry-level position. Strong work ethic and willingness to learn. Reliable and organized with good communication skills.”
This helps employers understand your attitude and goals.
Include Your Education
Education is important when you have little experience.
Include:
- School name
- Diploma or degree
- Graduation year (optional)
Example:
Lincoln High School
High School Diploma
or
Community College
Associate Degree in Business
If you are still in school, include:
Expected Graduation: 2026
List Your Skills
Skills are especially important when you have no work experience.
Examples of beginner-friendly skills:
- Communication
- Organization
- Time management
- Teamwork
- Basic computer skills
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Problem solving
List 5–10 skills.
Choose skills that relate to the job.
Include Volunteer Experience
Volunteer work counts as experience.
Examples:
- Helping at community events
- Food banks
- School activities
- Church groups
Example:
Volunteer Helper
Local Food Bank
2024
- Organized donations
- Assisted visitors
- Stocked shelves
Volunteer work shows responsibility.
Include School Activities
School activities can demonstrate skills.
Examples:
- Sports teams
- Clubs
- Student government
- Group projects
Example:
Chess Club Member
Lincoln High School
- Attended weekly meetings
- Participated in competitions
Activities show commitment.
Include Projects
Projects can be useful if you lack work experience.
Examples:
- School assignments
- Personal projects
- Computer projects
- Writing projects
Example:
Personal Budget Project
- Created monthly budget spreadsheet
- Tracked expenses
- Improved organization skills
Projects demonstrate initiative.
Keep Your Resume Simple
Most resumes with no experience should be one page.
Use:
- Black text
- White background
- Simple fonts
Avoid:
- Pictures
- Colors
- Graphics
Simple resumes work best.
Focus on Reliability
Employers hiring entry-level workers want people who are:
- Reliable
- Hardworking
- Willing to learn
Your resume should reflect these qualities.
Everyone Starts Somewhere
Every worker once had no experience.
A simple and honest resume is enough to begin applying.
The most important step is getting started.