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How can i improve my resume to get a normal every day job (such as a barista, cashier, team member, etc.) with a short-term job experience (3 months)?
I'm a sophomore in college this year and I have a lot of wiggle room to get a job, however many employers haven't responded to many of my applications, and it's probably due to my resume, how can I improve it?
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7 answers
Updated
Donald’s Answer
Shoe experience and be honest show it on linked in or indeed
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Lisa’s Answer
Select a resume layout that emphasizes your goals, abilities, and characteristics. Make a point of visiting the location you're applying to, as this will make your application stand out. Be ready to provide a letter explaining why you're interested in that particular company. Investigate the company's mission, values, and objectives. Craft your letter in a way that aligns with the company's goals.
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Donald’s Answer
Express how you have gained your experience and how you felt doing that. Then show where it got you and if that was what you intended. If they ask, show your references to support it. Best wishes.
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Kim’s Answer
Dear Anonymous,
The purpose of business is to make money. Focus on that, and you will get it! What do I mean?
Employers want people who will show up for work. If they are short-staffed, customers will walk away. So find examples to prove you are dependable, even if it means things like showing up for sports practice. Your "experience" doesn't have to be just paid experience!
Safety - failure to put out the wet floor signs will cause a company to get sued. Careless practices causing employee injury cost the employer in workers comp claims, and leaves them one worker short! Show that you are concerned with safety. Again, sports, chemistry lab, or whatever. You OWN your resume. It's purpose is to sell you to that employer. Sell yourself!
Customer Service - I used a line something like, "I deliver the type of customer service I would expect my grandmother to receive, resulting in numerous letters of commendation."
Accuracy/attention to detail - very important in sales, cash handling, credit card transactions, etc, even if most transactions are now done by the customer. Ever work on any fundraisers in school, church, etc?
In short, show that you are personable, reliable, and are there to help them be successful. And, if you are attaching a resume to an on-line application, consider switching to a Functional resume format, which will better allow you to market your traits/skills (identified above) rather than your limited work history.
The purpose of business is to make money. Focus on that, and you will get it! What do I mean?
Employers want people who will show up for work. If they are short-staffed, customers will walk away. So find examples to prove you are dependable, even if it means things like showing up for sports practice. Your "experience" doesn't have to be just paid experience!
Safety - failure to put out the wet floor signs will cause a company to get sued. Careless practices causing employee injury cost the employer in workers comp claims, and leaves them one worker short! Show that you are concerned with safety. Again, sports, chemistry lab, or whatever. You OWN your resume. It's purpose is to sell you to that employer. Sell yourself!
Customer Service - I used a line something like, "I deliver the type of customer service I would expect my grandmother to receive, resulting in numerous letters of commendation."
Accuracy/attention to detail - very important in sales, cash handling, credit card transactions, etc, even if most transactions are now done by the customer. Ever work on any fundraisers in school, church, etc?
In short, show that you are personable, reliable, and are there to help them be successful. And, if you are attaching a resume to an on-line application, consider switching to a Functional resume format, which will better allow you to market your traits/skills (identified above) rather than your limited work history.
Updated
Madi’s Answer
There are many resources available online to help you with your resume! I recommend looking at a few sample resumes and shaping yours to align with them. Aim to highlight your past experiences in a way that they directly relate to the jobs you're seeking. And remember, the key is to apply for numerous positions. As a college sophomore, I also struggled to find roles similar to cashier or barista. But after applying to numerous positions, I began receiving call backs! So, keep going!
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Wyatt’s Answer
I think that instead of spending hours trying to spin up a resume that is engaging you might have more success being engaging in person.
For example, many companies like Starbucks or Jimmy Johns make their hiring and firing decisions by location. This means you do not need to apply online where there are probably thousands of other candidates applying. Instead, you can go into the store and make a personal connection, even if there is not a job open at the moment they will have your information on file, and if they felt a connection to you will reach out in the future.
In my personal experience, many of these companies often hire friends of employees or kids of their friends- especially in small towns. Make sure to ask your friends if their jobs are hiring, if so they can make a large impact.
For example, many companies like Starbucks or Jimmy Johns make their hiring and firing decisions by location. This means you do not need to apply online where there are probably thousands of other candidates applying. Instead, you can go into the store and make a personal connection, even if there is not a job open at the moment they will have your information on file, and if they felt a connection to you will reach out in the future.
In my personal experience, many of these companies often hire friends of employees or kids of their friends- especially in small towns. Make sure to ask your friends if their jobs are hiring, if so they can make a large impact.
Updated
Nina’s Answer
In my view, a job application or interview is a mutual discovery process to ascertain if you're the perfect match for the job, and likewise, if the company aligns with your career aspirations. Lisa's insights are incredibly valuable. Make it a point to educate yourself about the company and crystallize what motivates you to be a part of their team. Having a well-defined reason why the job or company suits you will greatly convince them that you're the ideal candidate for the role. Best of luck! Remember, always pursue jobs that genuinely ignite your passion.
Research the company and their values
Be prepared to say exactly why you want to go and work for them
Be clear in your goals and how you feel the company will meet your learning goals.
Nina recommends the following next steps: