Structuring a resume for a fresher with no work experience can be challenging. Freshers find it difficult to showcase their skills without showcasing examples of their work. Don’t worry, companies still hire freshers but there are some things they need to keep in mind. Here are a few tips you can follow to increase your chances of getting that job.
1. Always customise your resume.
When you’re applying for a job, make sure your resume matches what the employer is looking for. Each job is different, so your resume should reflect that. For example, if you’re applying for a job as a web developer, your resume will be different from one for an accountant position. Write your resume specifically for each job you apply for, highlighting the skills that are needed.
2. Length of the resume
Employers are busy and don’t have the time to read long resumes. It’s important to keep your resume simple and to the point. The goal is to stand out from other candidates. A well-crafted CV with a clear format and the right amount of information and visuals will make a lasting impression on your employer. This will give you an edge over your competition and make it easier to land the job.
3.Avoid grammatical mistakes
Ensure your resume is free of grammatical errors by carefully proofreading it two or three times. Even if you’re highly committed to the job, a single mistake could convey a lack of seriousness and respect for the employer’s time. Grammatical errors might mistakenly indicate a relaxed or casual attitude.
Additionally, organise your resume in a clear chronological order. Highlight important keywords and opt for professional fonts. Maintain a font size of either 11 or 12 for readability and consistency.
4.Make your education section shine.
If your work experience is limited, emphasising your education can effectively demonstrate your strengths, interests, and background.
Consider including the following in your education section:
- Courses : List down any courses you might have taken through online platforms, but avoid mentions courses which are not related to the job profile. Courses that improve your understanding of things which is necessary for the job can show the recruiter that you are committed to this field.
- GPA :A good GPA shows your IQ level and highlights a brilliant academic journey. This increases the recruiter’s confidence in you. A impressive academic history will definitely have a positive impact on your profile.
- Relevant projects: Highlight projects from your coursework that align with the job you’re applying for. If you have multiple projects, consider creating a separate section for them. This shows your interest in the subject and will to work with dedication.
- Certifications and online courses: Include any external coursework or professional credentials you’ve earned alongside your formal education.Certificates play an important role when you have no work experience. Go for as many certificates you can in the desired field to show your interest and ability to learn new things.
5. Structured information
A fresh graduate’s resume typically lacks extensive professional experience, so it’s important to approach it thoughtfully.
Instead of randomly listing information, it’s best to maintain a clear structure. A fresh graduate’s resume should include details about their education, skills, technical abilities, internships, and more.
6. Highlight your skills
Even without formal work experience, chances are you possess skills valuable in your desired field. To identify these skills, review multiple job descriptions for positions that interest you. Commonly requested skills may include research, proficiency in Microsoft Office products like Word, Excel, or PowerPoint, communication abilities, computer programming, leadership qualities, social media proficiency, proficiency in foreign languages, public speaking skills, and customer service skills.
When formatting a CV for freshers, it’s crucial to highlight skills that align with the required criteria, which can be challenging to identify. Depending on the job description, emphasize skills that make sense to the recruiter.
7.Pick up a suitable resume type
There are three main types of resumes: chronological, functional, and combination. Each type serves a specific purpose.
The chronological style is best if you have several years of experience because it presents your background in a time-based order.
On the other hand, the functional style emphasizes the skills you’ve learned over time. So, for fresh graduates, we recommend using this style.
8.Add the right words.
Recruiters only glance at a resume for less than 10 seconds, so using the right keywords is crucial to grab their attention. Start by carefully reading the job description and researching what the recruiter is looking for online.
For example, if you are applying for social media manager position the you should mention time management, Canva , Facebook ads manager which will grab the hiring manager’s attention.
9. Show your passion while writing your objective
Write a strong opening that shows why you’re valuable and makes the reader want to learn more. You can use either a resume summary or an objective statement.
If you have some experience in your desired field, like from part-time jobs or internships, go for a resume summary. It’s a short paragraph highlighting your skills and experience, ideally with a measurable achievement.
The objective statement explains how your career goals match the employer’s needs. It lets you talk about your relevant skills, knowledge, and achievements.
10.Submit a cover letter
When submitting your resume online, employers may request a cover letter too. Even if it’s optional, including one can help you differentiate yourself as a candidate. If you choose to include a cover letter, ensure its design and color scheme complement your resume for a more unified appearance.
11.Proofread
Before you send in your resume, double-check it for mistakes. A resume with no errors and clear writing shows you’re professional and careful. If you customise your resume for each job, be sure to read it carefully every time. You can also ask a friend or family member you trust to look it over for you.
12.Highlight extracurricular activities.
Focus on showcasing any extracurricular activities, clubs, or organizations you participated in during school or college. This can help demonstrate your leadership, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
Make sure you follow all these steps to present yourself. Further, show genuine interest and passion for the company which sets you apart.