What ways can I build my resume before college?
Hello,
I am a senior this year and heading to a 4-year in the fall. I have been extremely busy this year as I am in 3 AP's this year and participate in 3 sports. So a job has never really been an option for me, because employers do not seem to be really willing to work with my hours despite my work ethic and communication skills. However, I plan on working in college in order to earn some extra money.
I have applied for jobs before so I know the process, but it seems to be hard to get a call back without much (or any) work experience. I need some easy, simple ways to build my resume without having worked before. Does it really look good to put babysitting on your resume? #college #resume #interviews
3 answers
Michael Stephens
Michael’s Answer
That's a great question. I don't think your situation is unique. I had very few jobs when I was in school because I wanted to focus on academics and sports. College is a great time to get that first part time job.
I am pretty sure a significant number students get their first job on campus or near campus. It's been my experience that managers of those businesses or departments are willing to work around class schedules and they are often the type of person who is willing to work with young people and help them develop their skills and knowledge.
Yes, I would definitely put babysitting on your resume, and also ask for a reference from the parents of the children you babysat for. As a babysitter, someone is entrusting you with the most precious thing they have-their own children. That's a huge responsibility. I think a prospective employer would like to see that on a resume from a young person, especially if the employer is a parent.
Great and useful information, thank you!
Raeann
Kim’s Answer
As you start to think about the resume, the key is to think about your future employer, rather than yourself! What are they looking for? Wow, if only we knew. . .
If you are wanting to work for a private business, perhaps retail, fast food, restaurant, or call center, remember the purpose of business - it is to make money! Every employee has the potential to make, or save, money for the employer. Customer service, attention to detail, safety, confidentiality of information. All are important.
If you want to work for a gov't agency, it seems, at least from my perspective, the most important thing is avoiding having complaints go higher up. And, customer service and confidentiality.
For all jobs, computer skills are important as well.
But, you haven't worked. So, the question is, how do you sell yourself? The answer: you look for things you HAVE done that show you will be successful in the job. "Transferrable job skills." Besides those things already mentioned, employers are looking at your work ethic: Showing up for work as scheduled, teamwork, ability to follow instructions, leadership, and attitude. There is even a saying I read in some book, can't remember who to credit for this. It was talking about how to hire, and it recommended that employers "hire for attitude, and train for skills." It makes sense.
I have seen many resumes where the person simply lists their extra-curricular activities. That does not add to the resume whatsoever. But, looking at your profile, I see you were captain of the cross-country team. Wow!! So that goes on the resume. Along with an explanation of what you did. "Motivated and encouraged team members to attend practice on time, and to always practice good sportsmanship. Resolved internal team disputes. Taught skills to newer team members. Conducted daily practice exercise sessions. Ensured all team equipment was accounted for."
Have you handled money? Kept business records? Done fund-raisers for your activities? "Participated in team fundraisers, maintaining accurate records of all orders and monies received. Promptly delivered merchandise upon arrival."
Worked a booth at a carnival? "Sold food at school carnivals, practicing safe food handling techniques. Greeted customers and explained available items and pricing. Resolved customer service complaints."
Babysitting: " Entrusted to care for children ranging in ages from 2-11. Planned age-appropriate activities, prepared meals, and provided general supervision. Maintained records of earnings. Acquired new clients by word-of-mouth referrals."
The resume should have the following sections, in this order:
Skills and Qualifications
Work Experience (babysitting)
Extracurricular Activities (sports)
Volunteer Experience (if any)
Education
Look at the website "Gotresumebuilder" for an excellent resume builder website. It will allow you to re-name and rearrange the sections, as you see fit. Also remember to always look at the job announcement, and, if there is something in the announcement that you do not have covered in your resume, add it in! (if possible).
A resume is a living document. We constantly change them up to best sell ourselves to the position we are applying for. Sometimes, a little change makes a big difference. For example: Consider the sentence "Handled customer service complaints," as compared to "Resolved customer service complaints." Wow, right?
I think you have a lot to offer any prospective employer!!!
Chantel’s Answer
You can create a brief resume with any volunteer experience, or any work you have done for pay. Do not overthink it. Coming into college professionals are not expecting you to have endless experience. Be truthful and put experiences you can speak to.
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