| resume_template_cfm__22.doc |
| resume_and_skill_checklist_.pdf |
Building Your First Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction (Video 0:00
In this video, Sinead provides essential tools and guidance for constructing a resume from scratch, particularly for those who are new to the job market. The video emphasizes that lack of work experience should not deter applicants, as there are ways to showcase their potential and skills effectively.
Purpose of a Resume (Video 0:50)
Sinead begins by explaining the primary purpose of a resume: it serves as a professional calling card and is crucial for making a strong first impression on recruiters or hiring managers. She points out that most employers spend only about 10 seconds reviewing a resume, making it vital for applicants to present their best attributes clearly and concisely.
Step 1: Create an Outline and Define Your Format (Video 1:20)
Starting a resume can be daunting, but having an outline simplifies the process. Sinead suggests either creating a blank document or using templates available on Indeed.com. She breaks down the ideal format:
Sinead stresses that the resume should be straightforward, easy to read, and devoid of unnecessary graphics or colorful fonts. Standard fonts like Times New Roman or Arial should be used, with consistent formatting for section titles.
Step 2: Display Your Highlights (Video 3:14)
The upper third of the resume is the most critical area as it receives the most attention. Sinead advises including your name, city of residence, and contact information without full street addresses for privacy. A professional email address is recommended, avoiding childish usernames. Additionally, applicants can include links to portfolios or relevant online work.
Step 3: Craft an Objective Statement (Video 4:18)
Sinead emphasizes the importance of an objective statement, which should succinctly convey your core offering to an employer. For those without work experience, she suggests highlighting relevant skills or achievements from other areas. For example, a high school student could state their academic accomplishments and eagerness to support office efficiency.
Step 4: Include Your Education (Video 5:14)
Applicants should list diplomas, degrees, and educational milestones, starting with the highest. The format includes the institution's name, location, expected graduation year, and the degree or achievement. It's also beneficial to mention any awards, honors, or relevant coursework that supports the application.
Step 5: Think Beyond Professional Experience (Video 7:23)
Sinead dispels the myth that resumes must only include paid work. She encourages showcasing various experiences, such as volunteer work, part-time jobs, and even non-career-related activities. For instance, babysitting or organizing events can be relevant experiences. When listing work experience, applicants should include job titles, affiliations, and dates, accompanied by bullet points detailing accomplishments.
Step 6: Highlight Hard and Soft Skills (Video 10:23)
Many first-time job seekers overlook their skills. Sinead explains that both hard skills (e.g., typing speed, software proficiency) and soft skills (e.g., customer service, teamwork) are valuable. It's important to consider any skills acquired through training or experience and to include them in the resume.
Bonus Step: Tailor Your Resume (Video 12:02)
Sinead advises tailoring resumes for each job application. This means carefully reviewing job postings and aligning the skills and experiences listed on the resume with the employer's requirements. Using specific language from job descriptions enhances the chances of catching the recruiter’s attention and passing applicant tracking systems.
Summary of Steps
Sinead concludes the video by summarizing the six key steps for writing a resume without experience:
She encourages viewers to email her their completed resumes for feedback, reinforcing the interactive aspect of her guidance.
Conclusion
This video serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals embarking on their job search, particularly first-time job seekers. By following Sinead's structured approach, applicants can create effective resumes that highlight their strengths, skills, and potential to prospective employers, even without extensive work history.
Introduction (Video 0:00
In this video, Sinead provides essential tools and guidance for constructing a resume from scratch, particularly for those who are new to the job market. The video emphasizes that lack of work experience should not deter applicants, as there are ways to showcase their potential and skills effectively.
Purpose of a Resume (Video 0:50)
Sinead begins by explaining the primary purpose of a resume: it serves as a professional calling card and is crucial for making a strong first impression on recruiters or hiring managers. She points out that most employers spend only about 10 seconds reviewing a resume, making it vital for applicants to present their best attributes clearly and concisely.
Step 1: Create an Outline and Define Your Format (Video 1:20)
Starting a resume can be daunting, but having an outline simplifies the process. Sinead suggests either creating a blank document or using templates available on Indeed.com. She breaks down the ideal format:
- Contact Information: Place your name at the top, followed by your contact details.
- Objective Statement: A brief statement outlining your career goals.
- Education: List educational achievements.
- Experience: Include professional and other relevant experiences.
- Skills: Highlight any relevant skills.
Sinead stresses that the resume should be straightforward, easy to read, and devoid of unnecessary graphics or colorful fonts. Standard fonts like Times New Roman or Arial should be used, with consistent formatting for section titles.
Step 2: Display Your Highlights (Video 3:14)
The upper third of the resume is the most critical area as it receives the most attention. Sinead advises including your name, city of residence, and contact information without full street addresses for privacy. A professional email address is recommended, avoiding childish usernames. Additionally, applicants can include links to portfolios or relevant online work.
Step 3: Craft an Objective Statement (Video 4:18)
Sinead emphasizes the importance of an objective statement, which should succinctly convey your core offering to an employer. For those without work experience, she suggests highlighting relevant skills or achievements from other areas. For example, a high school student could state their academic accomplishments and eagerness to support office efficiency.
Step 4: Include Your Education (Video 5:14)
Applicants should list diplomas, degrees, and educational milestones, starting with the highest. The format includes the institution's name, location, expected graduation year, and the degree or achievement. It's also beneficial to mention any awards, honors, or relevant coursework that supports the application.
Step 5: Think Beyond Professional Experience (Video 7:23)
Sinead dispels the myth that resumes must only include paid work. She encourages showcasing various experiences, such as volunteer work, part-time jobs, and even non-career-related activities. For instance, babysitting or organizing events can be relevant experiences. When listing work experience, applicants should include job titles, affiliations, and dates, accompanied by bullet points detailing accomplishments.
Step 6: Highlight Hard and Soft Skills (Video 10:23)
Many first-time job seekers overlook their skills. Sinead explains that both hard skills (e.g., typing speed, software proficiency) and soft skills (e.g., customer service, teamwork) are valuable. It's important to consider any skills acquired through training or experience and to include them in the resume.
Bonus Step: Tailor Your Resume (Video 12:02)
Sinead advises tailoring resumes for each job application. This means carefully reviewing job postings and aligning the skills and experiences listed on the resume with the employer's requirements. Using specific language from job descriptions enhances the chances of catching the recruiter’s attention and passing applicant tracking systems.
Summary of Steps
Sinead concludes the video by summarizing the six key steps for writing a resume without experience:
- Create an outline and define your format.
- Use the upper third to display highlights.
- Include your education.
- Think beyond professional experience.
- Highlight both hard skills and soft skills.
- Tailor your resume using language from job descriptions.
She encourages viewers to email her their completed resumes for feedback, reinforcing the interactive aspect of her guidance.
Conclusion
This video serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals embarking on their job search, particularly first-time job seekers. By following Sinead's structured approach, applicants can create effective resumes that highlight their strengths, skills, and potential to prospective employers, even without extensive work history.