How to Make Your First Resume

Teens 13–17 · How-to · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What do you need before starting your first resume?

Before you begin writing your first resume, gather some basic information and materials. You'll need your full name, phone number, and email address so employers can contact you. Think about your education history—your current school, grade level, and any classes or projects related to your job interest. Also list any extracurricular activities, volunteer roles, or unofficial jobs like babysitting or lawn mowing, because these show responsibility and skills. Have a list of your skills ready, like computer skills, teamwork, or communication. Finally, get a clean, simple format or template you can follow to keep everything organized.

What are the steps to make your first resume and why should you follow them?

Follow these steps to build a clear, effective resume:

1. Write your contact information at the top so employers know how to reach you.
2. Create a resume summary or objective that briefly explains who you are and what kind of job you want. This grabs attention quickly.
3. List your education details including your school name, expected graduation date, and any relevant courses. This shows your background.
4. Add any experience you have, like volunteering or informal jobs, even if unpaid. Describe what you did and skills you used.
5. Include a skills section that highlights abilities like customer service, technology, or languages. These help employers see your strengths.
6. Mention extracurricular activities or awards to show your interests and achievements outside of class.
7. Keep your resume to one page because employers prefer short, easy-to-read documents.
8. Proofread your resume carefully to fix spelling or grammar mistakes—errors can make a bad impression.
9. Save your resume as a PDF to keep formatting intact when you send it electronically.

These steps ensure your resume shows who you are clearly and professionally.

How do you write a resume if you have no work experience?

If you don’t have paid work experience, focus on other areas to show your value:

• List volunteer work, school clubs, sports teams, or community service.
• Describe responsibilities and skills you gained, like organizing events or working with others.
• Highlight any special projects or assignments where you demonstrated leadership or problem-solving.
• Include relevant skills such as computer programs you know, communication skills, or foreign languages.
• Use action words like “helped,” “organized,” or “learned” to describe your activities.

This approach helps employers see your potential even without a traditional job history.

How can you tell your resume worked?

You’ll know your resume is effective when you start getting interview invitations or callbacks from employers. If you apply for a job and get asked for an interview, that’s a clear sign your resume made a good impression. If you don’t hear back within two weeks, consider revising your resume or asking someone to review it. Keep track of the jobs you apply to and the responses you get to spot what’s working.

What can you do when your resume doesn’t get responses?

If your resume isn’t leading to interviews, try these tips:

• Ask a teacher, counselor, or family member to review it and suggest improvements.
• Make sure you included key words from the job description so your resume matches what employers look for.
• Check for spelling or grammar errors that might distract readers.
• Add more details about your skills or activities that relate to the job.
• Consider creating a different version tailored for each job type.
• Practice writing a cover letter to explain why you’re interested and motivated.
• Keep applying and stay patient—building experience takes time.

How should you adapt your resume as a teen applying for your first job?

As a teen, focus on your willingness to learn, reliability, and any positive experiences, even if small. Use simple language to describe your strengths and explain how your activities prepare you for work. Emphasize soft skills like punctuality, communication, and teamwork. Include your availability and mention if you have reliable transportation. Avoid listing age unless required, but be honest about your grade and graduation year. Tailor your resume to the type of job, whether it’s retail, food service, or internships. This approach helps employers see your readiness despite limited job experience.

What format and style should your first resume have?

Keep your resume format clear and easy to read with these tips:

• Use a clean font like Arial or Times New Roman, size 10–12.
• Organize sections with bold headings, such as Education, Experience, and Skills.
• Use bullet points to list your responsibilities or skills for clarity.
• Leave white space so the document doesn’t look crowded.
• Avoid fancy graphics or colors that might distract.
• Limit your resume to one page since you have little experience.

This style makes it easy for employers to find important information quickly.

Where can you find examples or templates to help with your first resume?

Look for teen-friendly resume templates online or through your school’s career center. Many websites offer free, simple resume builders that guide you step by step. You can also use word processing programs like Microsoft Word or Google Docs, which have templates you can customize. Reviewing sample resumes made by other teens can give you ideas on how to describe your skills and activities. Make sure to personalize the template to fit your experience and the job you want.

Frequently asked questions

Can I include hobbies on my first resume?

Yes, including hobbies can show your interests and skills, especially if they relate to the job. For example, team sports show teamwork, and coding clubs show technical skills. Keep it brief and relevant.

Should I put my age or date of birth on my resume?

It’s usually best not to include your age or birthdate to avoid bias. Instead, mention your grade or expected graduation year to show your stage in education.

How do I explain a gap if I haven’t worked before?

Instead of a gap, highlight any learning experiences like volunteering, school projects, or classes. Focus on what you’ve done and skills gained rather than what you haven’t.

How often should I update my resume?

Update your resume whenever you gain new skills, complete a project, or have a new experience. This makes it easier to apply quickly when a job opportunity arises.

Can I use a resume for applying to college or internships?

Yes, many colleges and internships ask for a resume. You can include your education, activities, volunteer work, and skills to show why you’re a good fit.