Resume for Your First Job: How to Create a Resume Even Without Experience

Lack of professional experience is one of the biggest challenges for those seeking their first job. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a formal work history to create an attractive and effective resume. With the right approach, you can demonstrate your potential, skills, and willingness to learn.

In this article, you’ll learn how to build a high-impact resume — even without previous work experience.

1. Use a Clear and Objective Title

At the top of your resume, right after your name and contact information, include a professional title that matches the type of job you’re seeking.

Examples:
• “Student seeking an opportunity as an Administrative Assistant”
• “Young Apprentice – Interested in customer service and support roles”

Avoid vague titles like “Looking for my first job.” Show that you have a clear goal.

2. Use the Objective Section to Make a Good Impression

This section is essential to show your intention and motivation.

Example:
“I’m looking for an opportunity as a Young Apprentice in the administrative field, where I can apply my school knowledge and develop professional skills, contributing with responsibility and a willingness to learn.”

Be direct, confident, and focus on what you can offer, even if you’re just starting out.

3. Highlight Your Educational Background

If you’re still in school or recently graduated, your education will be one of the main highlights of your resume.

Include:
• Name of the school
• Year of completion or expected graduation
• Technical, vocational, or extracurricular courses (even if online)

Example:
High School Diploma – João Silva Public School
Completed: Dec/2024
Technical Course in IT – SENAI
In progress – Expected completion: Dec/2025

4. Include Projects, Activities, and Informal Experience

Even if you’ve never had a formal job, you’ve likely had experiences that developed valuable skills for the workplace.

Include:
• School projects
• Volunteer work
• Family responsibilities (such as caring for siblings)
• Participation in fairs, events, or student organizations

Example:
Entrepreneurship School Project – 2024
Organized a recycled products fair with my team, participating in product creation, sales, and customer service.

5. Add Your Skills and Behavioral Competencies

Employers value both your abilities and how you behave in a work environment. This includes:

Tip: Present these skills as a bullet list at the end of your resume.

6. Online Courses Count Too!

Today, free or low-cost online courses are a great asset — even for beginners. Platforms like:
• Fundação Bradesco
• SENAI
• Sebrae
• Alura
• Coursera
• Microsoft Learn
• Cisco Networking Academy

Include the course name, the platform, and the completion year.

Example:
Course: Customer Service – Fundação Bradesco
Completed in 2024

7. Pay Attention to Visual Presentation

Even a simple resume can look professional. Some quick tips:
• Use a readable font (like Arial or Calibri, size 11 or 12)
• Keep margins and spacing consistent
• Avoid spelling mistakes
• Prefer sending your resume as a PDF file

You can also use professional-looking templates from Canva, Word, or Google Docs.

8. Avoid Including Photos or Sensitive Personal Information

Unless the job listing asks for it, don’t include your photo, CPF, ID number, marital status, or religion.

Include:
• Full name
• City and state
• Phone number
• Professional email (e.g., [email protected])
• LinkedIn profile (if available)

Having no experience doesn’t mean submitting a weak resume. With a strategic approach focused on your skills, education, and real-life experiences, you can clearly and confidently show your potential and motivation.Remember: Everyone starts somewhere — and a strong resume is your first step toward showing that you’re ready to grow professionally.