Start a business examples for resume

Teens 13–17 · Comparison · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What does it mean to start a business for your resume?

Starting a business involves creating, managing, and operating a venture that provides goods or services to customers. For teens, this could be as simple as selling handmade crafts online or offering a pet-sitting service in the neighborhood. Including business experience on a resume shows employers that you are proactive, responsible, and have developed valuable skills like money management, marketing, customer service, and problem-solving. These experiences highlight leadership and the ability to work independently—qualities that stand out to employers. To present this clearly on a resume, describe the type of business briefly, the work done, and the skills gained. For example, a teen running a lawn care service might write: “Operated a local lawn care business serving 10 clients, managing scheduling, equipment maintenance, and customer communication.” This shows initiative and real accomplishments.

What are some common examples of businesses teens can start for their resume?

Several business types fit well with teen skills and schedules, each emphasizing different abilities. Below are popular examples with explanations of what skills each develops and how to describe them on a resume:

• Online Store: Selling handmade jewelry, custom T-shirts, or digital art through platforms like Etsy or Instagram. This teaches marketing, sales, inventory management, and social media promotion. Resume example: “Created and managed an online shop selling handmade jewelry, increasing followers by 300 and generating $500 in sales over four months.”
• Freelance Services: Offering tutoring, graphic design, writing, or photography to clients locally or online. This builds client communication, time management, and project delivery skills. Resume example: “Tutored 15 students in math, improving their test scores through customized lesson plans.”
• Local Service Business: Providing lawn care, pet sitting, car washing, or house cleaning. This emphasizes reliability, customer service, and scheduling. Resume example: “Managed a pet-sitting service for 8 regular clients, coordinating visits and ensuring pet well-being.”
• Event Planning: Organizing school events, birthday parties, or community fundraisers. This develops planning, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Resume example: “Coordinated school fundraiser attended by 50+ people, managing volunteers and vendor communication.”

Each type offers different experiences that can be tailored to the skills relevant to future job applications.

How do different business examples compare for a resume?

Knowing the differences between business types helps in selecting one that fits personal interests and career goals. The following table compares key features:

This comparison helps teens decide which business to highlight based on the skills and experiences they want to showcase.

Which business example suits different types of teens?

Choosing the right business for a resume depends on interests and the skills to emphasize. Here are common teen profiles matched with suitable businesses:

• Creative and Tech-Savvy Teens: An online store fits well for those who enjoy designing and marketing products. Example resume entry: “Founded an online jewelry business, handled social media marketing, and fulfilled orders, generating over $600 in revenue.”
• Service-Oriented Teens with a Skill: Freelance work like tutoring or graphic design demonstrates communication and client management skills. Example: “Provided freelance tutoring for 10 students, improving their grades with personalized lessons.”
• Active Teens Who Like Outdoor Work: Local service businesses such as lawn care or pet sitting show responsibility and reliability. Resume line: “Operated a pet-sitting business, maintaining a schedule of daily visits for 12 clients.”
• Organized and Social Teens: Event planning suits those who enjoy coordinating groups and managing details. Example: “Planned and managed school charity events, organizing volunteers and logistics for events with 50+ attendees.”

Matching the business type with your strengths keeps motivation high and produces a more authentic, impressive resume.

What questions should teens ask before choosing a business example for their resume?

Before starting or listing a business, consider these questions to ensure the experience supports your career goals and fits your lifestyle:

• What specific skills do you want to highlight for future jobs? For instance, communication, leadership, or creativity?
• How much time can realistically be dedicated to the business alongside school and activities?
• What startup resources or materials are needed, and are they accessible?
• Can you clearly describe the business and your role in it on your resume and in interviews?
• Does this business experience relate to the kind of jobs or career paths you want to pursue?

For example, if aiming for customer service jobs, a local service business is relevant. For creative fields, an online store or freelance work fits better. Answering these questions guides a thoughtful choice.

Can business experiences be switched or added on a resume later?

Yes, resumes evolve as new experiences are gained. Starting with one business and moving to another or adding additional ventures is common. When updating, focus on the most recent and relevant experiences. For example, a resume might include:

• “Founded and operated a lawn care service, managing client scheduling and customer satisfaction.”
• “Launched an online custom candle business, handling product design and online marketing.”

Adding new experiences shows growth and broad skills, which employers value. Keep descriptions clear and focused on skills and accomplishments.

How should teens describe business experience on a resume?

Use strong action verbs and clear, concise language. Follow these steps:

1. Use a clear job title: “Founder,” “Owner,” “Freelance Tutor,” or “Event Coordinator.”
2. Summarize the business: Briefly state what products or services were offered.
3. List key responsibilities: Mention tasks like marketing, managing customers, or scheduling.
4. Highlight achievements: Give specific results, such as sales amounts, number of clients, or growth metrics.
5. Connect skills to job goals: Emphasize skills like communication, leadership, or problem-solving that fit the job applied for.

Example resume entry: Founder, Handmade Jewelry Online Store

• Designed and sold products through Instagram and Etsy, generating $700 in sales over six months.
• Managed social media marketing, growing followers by 350.
• Provided customer service and fulfilled orders, maintaining positive reviews.

This format shows clear accomplishments and relevant skills.

Where can teens find more resources to start and explain their business on a resume?

Helpful resources include:

• How to Explain Starting a Business on a Resume for tips on presenting your experience professionally.
• Business Ideas for Young Entrepreneurs to Start for inspiration and practical ideas.
• Make a Business Plan Examples to help plan any business step-by-step.

These guides support teens in building strong resumes that highlight their entrepreneurial skills.

Frequently asked questions

Can starting a business help me get a job with no prior work experience?

Yes, operating a business shows employers that you are motivated, responsible, and able to tackle challenges independently. It demonstrates practical skills even without traditional job history.

How do I make my business experience sound professional on a resume?

Use action verbs like “managed,” “created,” or “organized.” Include specific examples or numbers, such as clients served or revenue generated, to show real impact.

What if my business hasn’t made money yet?

Focus on the skills developed and the effort involved. Describing what you did and learned is valuable even without profits.

Should small side projects be included on my resume?

Include projects if they developed skills relevant to the job you want and if you can clearly explain them. Small projects can show initiative and experience.

How can I balance school and running a business?

Plan your schedule carefully, set manageable goals, and communicate your availability clearly with clients or customers, ensuring schoolwork remains a priority.

Is volunteering better than starting a business for gaining experience?

Both provide useful skills. Starting a business shows leadership and entrepreneurship, while volunteering highlights teamwork and community involvement. Choose based on your interests and goals.