How to Polish a First Job Resume Sample with Powerful Strategies
Are you a fresh graduate gearing up to get your first job? One of the main challenges you are likely grappling with is crafting a resume for first job applications. Sure, there are many available resume templates out there, but they will definitely still need some work to effectively speak for fresh graduates.
Since most entry-level jobs still require work experience, what do you put in place of it? How can you get the attention of employers and let them know that you are the right choice for the job?
It is common for first-time jobseekers to search online for a first job resume sample or a resume template that fits the industry they are applying for. However, you can increase your chances of catching the attention of employers by tweaking it with the right strategies.
- Research the best keywords.
Before looking up a first job resume sample to use, one of the first things you can do before writing your resume is to take note of the keywords typically used in job listings. These include qualifications and skills that employers are looking for, as well as the tasks and requirements that the position entails. Make sure to incorporate these keywords in your resume and cover letter, as these are the first things employers will be looking at.
- Keep your resume clean and simple.
Unless you are looking to get hired in a creative industry that can appreciate an out of the box resume format, it is important that you keep your resume simple, consistent, and uncluttered. Use no more than two colours, one font style, and two to three font sizes. Sections of your resume should be separated by blank spaces. Emphasise important points using bullet points and short and sweet sentences.
- Begin with a professional overview.
Next, you need to create a professional overview to introduce yourself. Your goal here is to show the hiring manager as briefly as possible why you are a great fit for the position. With the help of the keywords, you noted down, summarise your qualifications in no more than three sentences. Bulleted lists will also work great.
- Highlight your educational attainments and related extracurricular activities.
In place of work experience, you should mention all the important achievements from your study, especially your degree and academic honours you received. It will also greatly help to mention what skills you gained from subjects that are specifically related to the position you are applying for. Details about your extracurricular activities (as long as they are relevant to the job) and internship should also go into this part.
- Take note of your career competencies and transferable skills.
A first job resume sample or resume template that you can find online may not include a section or mention about non-technical skills. Employers are actually also very keen on career competencies and soft skills—transferable skills that demonstrate career readiness in fresh graduates.
In their 2020 Workplace Learning Trends Report, Udemy noted that a growth mindset tops the list of the most important soft skills for a successful career. Having a growth mindset means being able to learn continuously and show a willingness to adapt to change.
Other soft skills you may want to highlight in your resume include communication skills, creativity, innovation, leadership, teamwork, and digital technology proficiency. Ideally, you should also be able to support these skills by including some concrete examples.
- Add a touch of your personality.
Your objective for resume writing should not be limited to reading business-like. Your resume should reflect you, not only as an employee but as a person as well. More and more Malaysian companies are placing great importance in personality since it is a major factor in whether or not an applicant will fit into a work environment or office culture.
According to Truity CEO Molly Owens, one of the ways to make your personality shine in your resume is simply to talk about it. Include information that highlights some details about your introversion or extraversion level, how you collaborate, and how you see yourself contributing to the organisation. Mention what about the company, the industry, or the position aligns with your personal interests.
Even if you are a fresh graduate, you can definitely make your resume show that you are the right fit for the job. With the tips above, you will be able to clearly and effectively communicate your strengths and skills, and how you can be a valuable asset to your dream company.
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