- Resume Examples
Resume Format for Freshers—Writing Guide & Template
Writing your first resume is even more stressful than your first day in college. But it doesn’t have to be. Learn how to write a fresher resume without any stress.
You’re a fresher wanting to go out into the world and live your life to the fullest. But first, you need to get a job.
Afraid you’ll get stale before you manage to do it? No worries. Here, I’ll show you how to write a resume for freshers that gets your foot in the door. I’ll explain all the nitty-gritty of creating the perfect resume format for freshers while ensuring it highlights your skills and strengths.
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Looking for specific fresher resume guides? See:
- College Freshman Resume
- Entry-Level Accountant Resume
- Entry-Level Administrative Assistant Resume
- Entry-Level IT Resume
- Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer Resume
- General Entry-Level Resume Guide
- Internship Application Resume
- Law Student Resume
- Recent College Graduate Resume
- Undergraduate Student Resume
Fresher Resume Sample
Junior Python Developer
070-0436-4836
linkedin.com/in/python_tara
github.com/python_tara
Dedicated graduate with a Bachelor's degree in computer science, passionate about software development, seeking a junior Python Developer position at ProSnek. Proficient in Python programming, developing web applications, and automation scripts. Optimized codebase for a client's existing software project, reducing processing time by 15%. Eager to leverage technical skills and knowledge to contribute to innovative projects at ProSnek while continuously learning and growing in the field of software development.
Work Experience
Freelance Python Developer
Various Clients
May 2023–March 2024
- Developed and deployed 5 fully functional web applications for clients, resulting in a 20% improvement in overall website performance.
- Optimized codebase for a client's existing software project, reducing processing time by 15%.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and resolve software issues, achieving a 92% client satisfaction rate.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
University of South Carolina, Columbia
August 2019–May 2023
Relevant Coursework: Data Structures and Algorithms, Computer Organization and Architecture, Database Systems, Software Engineering.
Clubs: Active member of the USC Computer Science Club. Participated in club activities, including workshops, hackathons, and coding competitions.
Academic Projects
- Software Development Project: Developed a web-based inventory management system using Python and Django framework. Designed user interfaces, implemented database functionality, and conducted testing to ensure system reliability and performance.
- Machine Learning Research Project: Investigated applications of machine learning algorithms for image classification. Implemented convolutional neural networks using TensorFlow framework and evaluated model performance on benchmark datasets.
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving
- Python programming
- Data analysis
- Machine learning
Certifications
- Python Institute Certified Associate in Python Programming (PCAP), June 2023
- Coursera: Python for Everybody Specialization (University of Michigan), May 2022
Known Software
- SQLite, MySQL
Personal Projects
Online Bookstore Web Application
- Developed a full-stack web application using Flask framework and MySQL database. Deployed the application on the Heroku platform for a live demonstration.
Here’s how to write a fresher resume that kickstarts your career:
1. Apply the Proper Resume Format for Freshers
You’ve finally graduated. Congratulations! I know the feeling of walking out with a diploma, eager to get that first serious job. The first problem on that road is, of course, your resume. You’ve likely never written one before.
First things first, your fresher resume requires a fresher resume format . Here’s exactly how to set it up:
- Use the chronological resume layout . You may not have multiple previous jobs that need showcasing, but this resume style is perfect for freshers, as it is the gold standard in the industry.
- Choose a professional resume font , set the margins on your resume to 1 inch, and have the spacing value at 1.15. This way, your fresher resume will have some valuable white space , preventing overcrowding.
- Make your fresher resume on one page . It’s the best resume length for a resume with no experience .
- Add these resume sections in this order: header, resume objective for freshers, education, work history (if you have any), skills, and relevant bonus sections.
- Save your resume in both PDF and DOC file types. If the company you’re applying to doesn’t specify their preferred file, send the resume in PDF. It’s immune to software and hardware incompatibilities and ensures formatting integrity.
If you’re applying for a job in a country that requires biodata and not a resume, see our guide on creating a biodata format . And if you want to go the classic route of handing out printed resumes to various local companies, ensure you have them printed on proper resume paper .
Expert Hint: Add only the necessary information to your resume header . Your name, job title, phone number, email address, and optionally links to your optimized LinkedIn profile , portfolio, personal website, or other applicable sites. In 99% of situations, don’t include an address on the resume .
2. Include a Tempting Objective for Resume for Freshers
The first thing the recruiter notices about your resume is the way it's formatted. The second thing is your resume introduction . And I’m not talking about a “Hello World” here. I mean your fresher resume profile .
If you have no professional work experience, the best choice for you is to start with a resume objective . A resume objective provides a snapshot of your career goals, skills, and aspirations, setting the tone for the rest of your resume. It's your chance to make a strong first impression and demonstrate your enthusiasm and potential as a candidate.
Here’s an example:
Resume Objective for Freshers—Example
Computer Science graduate wanting a job at Your company. Passionate about coding and a fast learner. Proficient in Python, PHP, and Revit.
This fresher resume objective highlights the candidate’s Bachelor's degree and important programming skills. It also showcases their eagerness to contribute to innovative projects while emphasizing a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth, which greatly benefits a future employer.
If you secured internships and part-time jobs during your studies, you can opt for a resume summary . In it, focus more on your relevant work experience and professional accomplishments .
Resume Summary for Freshers—Example
Results-driven junior web developer with 1 year of experience as a freelance web developer. Successfully delivered over 10 fully functional websites, exceeding client expectations and garnering positive feedback. Proficient in front-end and back-end development, eager to leverage expertise to drive growth at Overweb.
Experienced junior web developer with 1 year of experience as a freelance web developer. Proficient in front-end and back-end development, with a proven track record of delivering high-quality websites for clients.
As you can see, a resume summary is used to showcase some sort of quantified achievement from your previous jobs, so go for it only if you have something good to show. After all, you can’t say “proven track record” and then prove nothing.
Even though a resume profile goes at the start of a resume , I recommend you finish writing all the other sections before tackling it. It’s easier to write once you have all of your qualifications neatly laid out in front of you.
Expert Hint: Start your fresher resume objective strong. Words like “Dynamic” or “Results-driven” inspire competence and are known as resume power words .
The ResumeLab builder is more than looks. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Easy. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .
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3. Put a Spotlight on Your Education
You’re fresh out of the university. But your education doesn’t equal job experience. So how can you make your resume education stand out?
You can do it by emphasizing relevant coursework , academic projects, and extracurricular activities that demonstrate practical skills, industry knowledge, and a strong work ethic. Additionally, showcasing any honors, awards, or academic achievements can further highlight your dedication and capabilities despite limited job experience.
Education on a Resume for Freshers—Example
I have some tips for making your fresher resume education section even better. Include your GPA only if it’s high —at least 3.5. Also, if you participated in abroad studies, don’t hesitate to mention it. 50% of IES Abroad alumni said that abroad studies helped them secure their first job.
4. Showcase Work Experience if You Have It
As I previously mentioned, you may not have any work experience at all. But if you do, it will do wonders for your fresher resume. Internships, part-time gigs, freelancing, and other types of employment give you invaluable experience. One that will set you apart from the competition.
To properly showcase your experience, you must create a section full of strong resume bullet points . Take a look:
Fresher Resume Example—Work Experience
January 2023–January 2024
- Deployed web applications for clients, ensuring functionality.
- Optimized codebase for existing software projects.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve software issues.
These two examples show the exact same candidate with the same achievements. But, the first one shows actual, quantified impact, making their resume much more appealing.
And since you’re applying for an entry-level position, relevance in your job experience isn’t the be-all and end-all. If you’re applying to be a Python developer, but your previous job was as a cashier, you can still showcase valuable, transferable skills, such as customer service skills or time management .
5. List Vital Skills
Skills are perfect for targeting job keywords on your fresher resume. You’ll easily spot what the company wants you to know in the job posting. List about 5–10 skills on your resume that target their wants. Make it a mix of hard and soft skills.
Soft skills are personal attributes and interpersonal qualities gained through life experiences, while hard skills are specific technical abilities, expertise, and knowledge required to perform tasks related to a particular job.
Here are some of the best work skills most fresher resumes will benefit from:
Skills in Resume for Freshers
- Adaptability
- Time management
- Critical thinking
- Creative thinking
- Emotional intelligence
- Conflict resolution
- Computer skills (MS Suite)
- Programming
- Graphic design
- Project management
- Customer service
- Engineering
- Marketing skills
- Administrative skills
- Web development
Expert Hint: If you’re having trouble localizing resume keywords to target, you can ask AI for help with your resume . If you want to learn more, see this guide on having ChatGPT help you with writing a resume .
6. Supplement Your Fresher Resume With Bonus Sections
If your fresher resume was a movie, adding good bonus sections would give it a “certified fresh” status on Rotten Tomatoes. Include 1–3 of these sections:
- Certifications: Include any relevant certifications or courses completed, especially if they relate to your field of study or desired career path.
- Volunteering: Highlight any volunteer work or community service activities you have participated in, demonstrating your commitment to giving back and making a positive impact.
- Languages: If you are proficient in multiple languages, consider adding a section to showcase your language skills , which can be valuable in today's globalized workforce.
- Software: Create a separate section to list software programs, tools, and technologies that you are proficient in. This can include programming languages, database management systems, design software, and other relevant tools
- Personal Projects: Share any personal projects or initiatives you have undertaken that demonstrate your passion, creativity, and problem-solving abilities
- Hobbies & Interests : Include hobbies that demonstrate skills or qualities relevant to the job you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for a marketing position, hobbies like blogging, social media management, or photography can showcase your creativity and digital marketing skills.
- Memberships: Showcase professional memberships that present your knowledge and willingness to learn from others.
- Extracurricular Activities: Showcase involvement in clubs, sports teams, student organizations, or other extracurricular activities demonstrating leadership, teamwork, or other valuable skills.
See how it works in action:
Bonus Sections on a Resume for Freshers
- Synchronized swimming
- Collecting stamps
Memberships
- Cheesemaster - Cheese-making society
Remember, if something doesn’t add value to your fresher resume, don’t include it on a resume at all.
Expert Hint: Learn how to write a cover letter and send it with your fresher resume. Some companies might ask you for a letter of motivation instead, so read our guide and don’t get caught off-guard.
Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.
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Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .
For a fresher resume that secures you your first job:
- Ensure the format of your fresher resume is easy to read and navigate by using clear headings, bullet points, and concise language.
- Highlight your degree, relevant coursework, academic projects, and any honors or awards you've received. Emphasize your GPA if it's strong.
- Include any relevant skills, internships, or part-time jobs that demonstrate your qualifications for the desired position. Focus on technical skills, soft skills, and any hands-on experience you've gained, even if it's through coursework or personal projects.
- Customize your resume for each job application by researching the company and job requirements.
Do you have any questions about writing a fresher resume? Need help with setting up the proper resume format for freshers or choosing the right fresher resume skills? Ask me in the comments below. I’ll happily reply.
About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process
At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.
Mariusz is a career expert with a background in quality control & economics. With work experience in FinTech and a passion for self-development, Mariusz brings a unique perspective to his role. He’s dedicated to providing the most effective advice on resume and cover letter writing techniques to help his readers secure the jobs of their dreams.
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How to Write a Fresher Resume (With Simple Format Examples)
Fresh out of university and about to begin looking for jobs? Writing a fresher resume with no experience can be a challenge. Check out our writing tips and simple resume format example for inspiration.
As featured in *
What is a fresher resume?
Fresher resume sample, the best resume format for freshers, how to write a resume without experience, resume templates for applicants with no experience.
In this video, resident career expert Chloe walks you through the process of writing a resume without experience so you can send out your application confidently:
A fresher resume is a resume written by a recent university or secondary school graduate who lacks work experience. In short, it’s a resume for those who are new to the workforce.
Writing a resume as a fresher requires a slightly different approach compared to writing a resume as an experienced job applicant because you don’t have a lot of relevant work experience to put on your resume.
Our free-to-use resume builder can make you a resume in as little as 5 minutes. Pick the template you want, and our software will format everything for you.
Not sure what a fresher resume should look like: Here’s a properly formatted fresher resume example :
For freshers, the ideal resume format is a chronological resume . The chronological format gives hiring managers a clear overview of your educational background as well as your relevant experience by listing each position starting with your most recently held position at the top.
Follow this simple format when you write your fresher resume:
- Contact information
- Resume introduction
- Relevant experience
- Additional resume sections (projects, hobbies and interests , extracurricular activities , etc)
If you’re writing a resume for a job in India, be aware that formatting conventions can be different. Check out our Indian resume format guide to make sure you’re following best practices.
Writing a resume with no experience can be tricky. How do you convince employers that you have what it takes to be successful when you don’t have any work experience to prove it?
Follow these five tips to write a strong resume that shows off your strengths as a fresh graduate:
The best resume templates for 2024
One of the best ways to make your resume is by filling out one of our free resume templates. All our templates are designed by experts and free to download for Microsoft Word or Google Docs.
1. Write a compelling “about me” section
To immediately grab their attention, you need a persuasive resume introduction that provides an overview of your background as well as the skills and accomplishments that make you a good fit for the role.
For freshers, it’s better to opt for an “ About Me ” introduction rather than a resume summary , which is better suited to more experienced job seekers.
As a recent graduate , you should include the following information in the “About Me” section of your resume:
- Part-time jobs or internships relevant to the position you’re applying for (if any)
- Relevant certifications
- Professional goals
Here’s a good example of a fresher “About Me” section:
This candidate doesn’t have any previous work experience, so instead, they draw attention to an internship they did for a company in the same industry they’re now applying to work in.
2. Tailor your resume for each application
A mistake many freshers make is to submit the same generic resume to multiple companies. The trick to writing a good resume, – and maximizing your chances of getting invited for an interview – is to tailor it to each position you apply for.
Employers want to know that you’ve thoroughly read the job description, researched the company, and are interested in this position specifically.
Including resume keywords from the job description throughout your resume is a good way to show that you’ve taken the time to think about what makes you a good fit for the position.
Here’s an example of a sales associate job ad with the resume keywords in bold:
A candidate applying for this position should highlight experience that showcases their people skills and customer service skills , as well as skills related to organization, time management and technology.
Here’s an example showing how to incorporate resume keywords into the experience section of a resume:
This example works because the candidate explains how their communication skills helped them provide better service to their clients.
3. Focus on your education
If you don’t have any professional or volunteer experience relevant to the position you want to fill and are struggling to make your resume a full page long, emphasize your education section instead.
One way to do this is to include your education section before your work or relevant experience section, making it one of the first things employers will see.
You can also bulk up your resume’s education section by adding the following:
- Honors and awards
- Relevant coursework
Below is a good example of an education section on a fresher resume:
By listing relevant courses the candidate here shows that they’ve acquired skills that will help them become a good digital marketer.
4. Highlight transferable skills
Just because you’re a recent graduate doesn’t mean you haven’t developed valuable resume skills that could give you an advantage over other more experienced candidates.
Throughout your academic career, you’ve likely picked up numerous transferable skills that will help you succeed in the role. Transferable skills are hard and soft skills that are highly sought after in all industries, because they make employees more well-rounded and adaptable.
A few examples of transferable skills are:
- Interpersonal skills
- Computer skills
- Public speaking
- Problem solving
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Language skills
In addition to listing your transferable skills in the skills section of your resume, emphasize particularly relevant skills by spotlighting them in your experience section. Here’s a good example:
Providing examples of how you’ve applied your skills in the past lends credibility to your resume and makes it stronger overall.
5. Proofread your resume
Even if you’ve carefully crafted each section of your resume, make sure to read through the entire final draft before you start sending it out to employers.
Going over your resume one last time will allow you to catch and correct grammatical errors, repetitive language, and other resume mistakes that could cost you the job.
Ideally, you should ask a friend or family member to have a look at your resume as well. They might notice areas where there’s room for improvement that you’ve missed.
Made for candidates new to the job market, these resume designs help highlight your strengths, even without prior work experience:
Emily Crowley
Career Advisor & Senior Content Writer
Emily Crowley loves helping job seekers overcome obstacles to advance their careers. She graduated from George Mason University with a degree in Foreign Language and Culture and relocated to Taipei shortly after. As a writer and career advisor, she takes a particular interest in empowering young professionals through practical knowledge and advice on topics like resume writing, interviewing, and navigating career changes. Emily’s career advice has been featured in online publications such as Global Trade Magazine and Parade. For media-related queries, she can be reached at emily [at] resumegenius [dot] com.
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What's the Best Resume Format for Freshers in 2024?
You just got into college.
You’re ready to make the most of your time in university, but first things first – you need a job.
Whether you want to support yourself during your studies or you’re looking for hands-on experience to prepare for the career ahead of you, you’re going to need a resume to get there.
But how can you make an effective resume if most of what you’ve been up to so far is studying?
Don’t worry; that’s where we come in.
In this article, we’re going to teach you how to make a flawless fresher resume.
We’re going to cover:
- What Makes a Great Fresher Resume Example
- 9 Steps to Writing the Best Fresher Resume
- What to Include in Your Fresher Resume
Let’s dive in.
What Is a Fresher Resume?
A fresher resume, also known as a freshman resume in the US , is a resume for a first-year university student.
Typically, fresher resumes have limited work experience, if any at all. They tend to focus on academic or extracurricular achievements and transferable skills gained from school projects or volunteer work .
Fresher students are usually looking for one of two types of opportunities: part-time jobs to support themselves during their studies or internships to gain experience in their chosen field.
So, these resumes need to highlight the student's potential, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn, instead of an extensive work history.
In this article, we're going to focus on fresher resumes for students looking to find a part-time job while they're studying. If you're interested in landing an internship related to your chosen field instead, check out our corresponding article for a guide to that.
Fresher Resume Example
The resume above is an excellent example of what a fresher resume should look like.
Let's look at what it does right:
- Uses a professional design. The resume maintains a simple, easy-to-read look that's appropriate for any type of job application.
- Sticks to the reverse-chronological resume format. This format highlights your most recent work experience and achievements first, which makes it a favorite amongst hiring managers worldwide.
- Lists relevant contact details . The contact information section includes the candidate’s full name, phone number, email, and location, so the hiring manager can easily contact them.
- Includes a resume headline . At the top of this resume, there is a resume headline that captures who the candidate is, along with their experience and key skills, at a glance.
- Highlights transferable skills . The resume emphasizes both hard and soft skills that are relevant to the position, such as cash handling, customer service, and teamwork.
- Showcases relevant experiences. Despite the candidate's inexperience, this resume effectively presents their previous work experience and extracurricular activities in a way that shows they’re the right fit for the job.
- Includes education details. The education section isn’t too detailed since the candidate has enough non-academic experience to fill up their resume.
- Leverages additional sections . This resume uses up any leftover space to add sections for languages, hobbies, and interests. These can provide a well-rounded picture of what the candidate is like and what they can do, which can tip the scales in their favor for some employers.
9 Steps Toward a Flawless Fresher Resume
You know what a great fresher resume looks like. Now, it’s your turn to make one .
Just follow these steps and you’ll be done in no time:
#1. Choose the Best Format
How you organize your resume affects how the hiring manager sees you.
So, start by choosing a resume format .
There are three main types of resume formats:
- Reverse-chronological (also known as chronological)
- Functional (also known as skill-based)
- Combination (which mixes elements from both of the above)
For your fresher resume, we suggest using the reverse-chronological format. It's the most popular with employers worldwide!
In fact, that’s the format hiring managers expect to see. It puts your most recent experiences and achievements first, so it helps employers quickly get an idea about what you've done so far and what your top skills are.
Here’s what the reverse-chronological resume format looks like in action:
#2. Adjust the Layout
You know you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but you can’t help it - if the cover looks interesting, you’re more likely to pick up the book and see what it’s about.
Your resume’s layout works the same way. It determines if your resume is eye-catching and easy for the hiring manager to read.
Think about it – if your resume looks messy or cluttered, the hiring manager might not want to read it at all.
So, your goal is to make your fresher resume as visually appealing and readable as possible through the layout.
Here's how:
- Set appropriate margins. Use one-inch margins on all sides. This gives your resume a clean, balanced look without wasting space.
- Adjust the line spacing. Ideally, the line spacing should be 1.0 between text and 1.15 after subheadings. Make sure to keep it consistent throughout your entire resume.
- Choose a good font . Use a professional, easy-to-read font. We recommend choosing a classy but not overused font, something like Lora, Ubuntu, or Roboto.
- Keep it simple. As a fresher, you should focus on a clean, straightforward design. Avoid excessive colors or too many graphics that might overshadow the contents of your resume.
- Use the right file format . Save your resume as a PDF unless the job listing specifies otherwise. This ensures your layout remains consistent across different devices.
Or Just Use a Professional Resume Builder
Creating your fresher resume from scratch can be challenging.
You must adjust the margins, choose an appropriate font, figure out your resume’s design, and ensure everything fits on one page.
Luckily, there's a shortcut that can make things much easier for you.
Just use one of our professionally designed resume templates !
Each of our templates is made in collaboration with leading HR managers from around the world, which means your resume will meet industry standards and look stylish too.
Here's how a professional template might compare to a basic text editor document:
#3. Include Relevant Contact Information
Now that you've sorted out how your resume looks, it's time to start filling in its contents. The first and easiest section to write is your contact information.
Here’s what this section should include:
- Full Name. (E.g. Daniel Lawson)
- Title. As a fresher, you can use a title like "University Student", "First-Year Economics Student" or the job title you’re applying for. (E.g. Cashier )
- Phone Number. Be sure to include the dial code in front of your phone number if you’re applying for a job abroad and double-check for any typos.
- Email Address. Use a professional email address instead of something quirky you made as a teenager. (E.g. [email protected], not [email protected])
- Location. Your city and country are usually enough, so don’t add a full postal address.
The most important thing you should remember about this section of your resume is that information needs to be factually correct.
This means that you have to proofread everything carefully for any typos, especially when it comes to your email address or phone number. It won’t matter how great the rest of your resume is if the hiring manager can’t contact you because a single letter or number is out of place.
Let’s look at some examples:
Contact Information
Tyler Oakley, Law Student 07700 456789 [email protected] linkedin.com/in/tyler-oakley Manchester, UK
Tyler O. 07700456789 [email protected] UK
#4. Add a Resume Headline (Summary or Objective)
On average, you have less than six seconds to impress a hiring manager.
That’s because hiring managers go over hundreds of resumes every day, so they only spend a few seconds on each before deciding if the candidate is worth reading about.
If you want your resume to make the cut, you have to give them something worthwhile right off the bat.
This is where your resume headline comes in.
You should always include a brief paragraph at the top of your resume that lets the hiring manager know what they can expect from the rest of your resume.
Depending on how experienced you are, your resume headline can be:
- A resume summary. The resume includes your amount of experience in the field, most impressive skills, and any standout achievements. We recommend using this if you have previous work experience.
- A resume objective. Includes your career goals, relevant skills, and enthusiasm for the role. Use this if you don’t have any work experience yet.
Here are two examples:
- Dedicated student with 8 months of customer service experience in a busy café environment. Skilled in cash handling, inventory management, and maintaining a clean workspace. Consistently received positive customer feedback and achieved a 98% accuracy rate in cash transactions. Eager to apply my strong communication skills and attention to detail to contribute effectively to the team at XYZ Store.
That’s a pretty good resume summary! It includes all the details that can sway a hiring manager to read more of the applicant’s resume, like their experience with customer service.
Now, let’s see how a resume objective looks:
- Enthusiastic first-year Business student at Cardiff University seeking a part-time retail position at XYZ Fashion Emporium. Quick learner with strong organizational skills developed through active participation in university clubs. Excited to gain hands-on experience in the fashion retail industry while contributing my passion for customer service and keen eye for visual merchandising to enhance the shopping experience.
Even without work experience to back them up, this candidate wrote a great resume objective.
#5. Emphasize Any Work Experience
The bulk of any resume is the work experience section .
Even if it’s limited, it’s still a crucial part of your resume. It shows potential employers what skills you've developed and how you've applied them.
So, here's how to format this section:
- Use reverse chronological order. List your most recent experiences first and work your way back to older ones.
- Be honest about your role. If you were a " Volunteer ," don't call yourself a "Team Leader" unless that was your actual role.
- Provide organization details. Include the name and location of the organization. You can also briefly describe what it is if you think it’s necessary. (E.g. “XYZ Org is a youth organization dedicated to teaching schools First Aid and emergency response techniques.” )
- Mention the period. Use the mm/yyyy format consistently throughout your resume.
- List responsibilities and achievements. Describe what you did in your role. Use five to six bullet points for your most recent experiences, and three to four for older ones.
Those are the basics.
But if you want to make your resume really stand out, here’s how:
- Tailor your work experience. Emphasize aspects of your previous experience that relate more to the job you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for a retail job, highlight your customer service skills from your volunteer work.
- Focus on achievements. Instead of just listing what you did, try to show what you accomplished while you were there. This proves you can add value to the team and it makes a much better impression on the hiring manager.
- Use specific examples. When it comes to achievements, try to quantify them where possible. For example, "Organized a school event for 200 students" is a lot more impactful than "Helped organize school events."
- Use action verbs. Avoid passive or cliche language. Instead of talking about how you “helped” with something, start each bullet point with a strong verb like "coordinated,” or "created" to show initiative.
Here’s an example of how this can look on your resume:
Bookstore Assistant
PageTurner Books
Lowell Peaks, USA
06/2022 - 08/2023
- Assisted customers in locating books and provided recommendations, enhancing customer satisfaction and contributing to a 15% increase in positive feedback.
- Organized and maintained inventory of over 5,000 books, ensuring accurate stock levels and a tidy store appearance.
- Operated cash register and processed an average of 50 transactions daily.
- Coordinated and hosted weekly storytime sessions for children, increasing foot traffic by 20% during typically slow periods.
- Implemented a new shelving system that improved book findability, reducing customer search time.
What if I Don't Have Work Experience?
As a fresher, there’s a chance you’re looking for your first job .
This means since you don’t have any work experience , you might not know what to do with this section. After all, isn’t it supposed to be the focal point of your resume?
Thankfully, there’s no need to worry!
Employers understand that students can’t have extensive work experience fresh out of high school .
All you have to do is focus on filling up your resume with any relevant or interesting experiences other than work. These can include:
- School projects
- Volunteer work
- Extracurricular activities
- Personal projects
- Academic achievements
- Relevant coursework
For example, if you organized a school event or led a group project, that can demonstrate valuable skills like leadership, organization, and teamwork .
Let’s look at an example of how you could format something like that on your resume:
Prefect & Event Coordinator
St. Mary's Comprehensive School Student Council
Chelmsford, Essex
08/2022 - 06/2024
- Organized and executed the annual school charity fair, raising £5,000 for local children's hospital.
- Managed a team of 15 student volunteers, delegating tasks and ensuring smooth event operations.
- Created and adhered to a budget of £1,000, tracking all expenses and revenues.
- Liaised with 20+ local businesses to secure sponsorships and donations for the event.
- Implemented a new online ticketing system, increasing pre-event sales by 40% compared to the previous year.
#6. List Your Relevant Skills
Next, it’s time to list your most important skills .
This is one of the most important sections on your fresher resume because it tells potential employers what you can do and how quickly you might adapt to the job.
But that doesn’t mean you should just list every skill you can think of. Instead, your skills section should be tailored precisely to the job you're applying for.
For example, if you're applying for a retail position at a clothing store, your customer service skills are way more important than your computer skills or knowledge of video games.
Here are some tips on how to list your skills properly:
- Highlight what the employer wants. Carefully read the job description and identify the required skills. Then, include the ones that apply to you in your resume.
- Research in-demand skills for the position. Look at similar job ads to see what skills are commonly required for this type of position and include ones you have.
- Separate your soft and hard skills. This makes it easier for hiring managers to quickly find what they're looking for. Soft skills might include communication or teamwork, while hard skills could be specific software knowledge or language proficiency.
- Be honest. Only list skills you actually have. It's better to have a few genuine skills than to exaggerate and risk being caught out in an interview.
Keep in mind that, as a fresher, you probably have a lot to learn before you can show off too many impressive hard skills. In that case, it’s fine to focus more on soft skills or keep both types of skills listed together.
#7. Expand on Your Education
Your education is likely one of your strongest assets as a fresher.
So, while we usually advise experienced professionals to keep their education section short and sweet, you can be more detailed.
Here's what to include here:
- Degree Name. The degree type and your major's name should be on top. (E.g. “BA in Economics” )
- University Name. Include the full name of your institution. (E.g. “St. Mary’s University” )
- Location. The city and country are usually enough information. (E.g. “London, UK” )
- Period Attended. Include your start date and, optionally, your expected graduation date. You can stick to the mm/yyyy format for consistency, or even just use the year.
- Relevant Coursework. If you've taken any courses pertinent to the job, you can list them.
Make sure to include your secondary school education right after you add the degree you’re currently pursuing.
Here's an example of how your education section might look:
BA in Business and Management
University of Manchester
Manchester, England
09/2023 - Present
- Expected graduation: June 2026
- Relevant coursework: Business Communication, Principles of Marketing, Organizational Behavior
- First-year academic achievement: Dean's List
Oakwood Sixth Form College
Birmingham, England
09/2021 - 06/2023
- A-Levels: Business Studies (A), Economics (B), Mathematics (B)
#8. Include Optional Sections
By the time you get here, you might be thinking, “Is that it? My resume still looks empty !”
Don’t worry! This is where the optional resume sections can come in.
These sections aren’t near as crucial as the main sections we already discussed but, used right, they can help you stand out.
Some sections you might consider include:
- Academic Achievements. High grades in relevant subjects, academic competitions you've won, or any scholarships you've received are worth mentioning.
- Relevant Coursework. If you've taken any classes that are particularly relevant to the job you're applying for, you can dedicate a separate section to them.
- Volunteer Work. Any volunteering you've done shows initiative and community spirit, and it can prove employers you can work as part of a team.
- Languages. If you speak multiple languages, this can be a valuable asset in different customer service roles.
- Extracurricular Activities. Involvement in clubs, sports teams, or student organizations can show leadership or time management skills .
- Hobbies and Interests. Some employers like to see this to get a sense of your personality and appreciate some extra information about you. Just make sure to keep it professional and, if possible, relevant.
Academic Achievements:
- Top 5% in A-Level Economics
- School Prefect, 2022-2023
- Winner, Regional Debating Competition 2023
- Guarani (Native)
- Spanish (Bilingual)
- English (Intermediate)
#9. Include a Cover Letter
Sometimes, something that looks like a small detail can make a huge difference in your job search.
In this case, that detail is writing a cover letter .
Even for part-time jobs, a well-written cover letter can set you apart from other applicants.
Writing a cover letter shows the employer that you're genuinely interested in the position, you've put effort into your application, and you're worth considering for the job even if you have limited work experience.
However, a lot of freshers struggle with writing cover letters. After all, they’re not exactly like motivational letters , which you likely had to write to get into university.
Thankfully, writing a cover letter can be super easy – so long as you have the right approach.
Before we move on to some crucial cover letter tips , let’s look at what a great fresher cover letter looks like:
- Add your contact information. Your cover letter's header should match your resume, including your full name, phone number, and email address.
- Address the employer. Try to find out who will be reading your application. If you can't find a specific name, use a general title like "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear Company XYZ Team". Just don’t use something generic like “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern,” because those are too impersonal.
- Create a strong opening. In your first paragraph, mention the specific position you're applying for and briefly explain why you're interested. Depending on how it relates to the job, you might want to mention your major or any relevant skills you've developed.
- Expand on the details. Use the body of your cover letter to highlight any relevant experiences and explain how they’ve prepared you for the role. Show enthusiasm for the company and focus on your eagerness to learn and contribute to the team.
- End your cover letter effectively. Conclude by reiterating your interest in the position and your enthusiasm to contribute to the company. Include a call to action and a formal closing line, like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name.
Your cover letter is a great place to mention your availability, especially if you’re applying for a part-time position around your class schedule.
FAQs on Fresher Resumes
Still wondering something about fresher resumes? Check out the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions below.
#1. What’s the Difference Between a Fresher Resume and a Freshman Resume?
There's no significant difference between a fresher resume and a freshman resume.
The term "fresher" is commonly used in the UK, while "freshman" is used in the US, but both terms refer to first-year university students.
Just keep in mind that the proper language might be different depending on what country you’re in, so your resume should reflect that. Use the correct terminology and grammar, whether that’s American, Australian , or something else.
#2. Does a Fresher Need a CV or Resume?
In most of the world, including the UK, the words CV and resume are used interchangeably.
However, in the US, a CV typically refers to a comprehensive academic document , while a resume is a concise summary of qualifications meant for a specific job application.
For most part-time jobs, freshers should use a resume. But if you’re applying for academic positions or certain internships, a detailed CV might be more appropriate. Make sure you check the job listing to see if they specify the type of document they want you to submit with your application.
#3. How Do I Write a Good Resume as a Fresher?
First, choose a professional resume template so your application sticks out while being easy to read. If your resume doesn’t look good, the hiring manager might not read it at all.
Next, fill in all the relevant information. Include skills, coursework, and any achievements, work-related or academic, depending on your experience. If you don’t have any work experience, include extracurricular activities, personal projects, or volunteer experience.
Make sure your resume emphasizes your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Then, before sending it, proofread it for any errors and make sure you’ve included enough keywords from the job ad.
#4. How Long Should a Resume Be for Freshers?
Your fresher resume should ideally be one page long. This gives you more than enough space to showcase your key qualifications, skills, and experiences without overwhelming the employer.
As a fresher, you likely don't have a lot of work experience to begin with, so one page lets you present the experience you do have in a way that can stick out. It also shows the hiring manager that you can communicate effectively and prioritize information, which is a valuable skills for any job.
Key Takeaways
You’ve made it to the end of our article!
By now, we’re confident you can write a great fresher resume.
But before you go, let’s quickly recap what we’ve learned so far:
- Choose a clean, professional resume template to make a good first impression without worrying about the layout.
- Write a concise resume objective that showcases your enthusiasm, relevant skills, and career goals, so the hiring manager can see what you offer at a glance.
- If you don’t have any work experience, highlight achievements from your studies, extracurricular activities, or volunteer work.
- Always tailor your skills section to match the job description, and include both hard and soft skills.
- Use optional sections to fill up space on your resume. Categories like “Academic Achievements” or “Hobbies and Interests” are a great choice because they let you paint a more comprehensive picture of yourself as a candidate.
- Include a well-written cover letter to complement your resume, explaining your interest in the position and how your unique experiences make you a good fit.
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Ensure the format of your fresher resume is easy to read and navigate by using clear headings, bullet points, and concise language. Highlight your degree, relevant coursework, academic projects, and any honors or awards you've received.
For freshers, the ideal resume format is a chronological resume. The chronological format gives hiring managers a clear overview of your educational background as well as your relevant experience by listing each position starting with your most recently held position at the top.
Fresher Resume Templates. If you're new to the industry and still finding your footing, you'll benefit from one of these single-page resume templates that highlight your education and skillsets. Get started with your resume: Create your resume.
Learn what a fresher resume is, explore an example and template for reference and discover how to write a resume formatted for freshers with tips.
How to choose a resume format for fresher jobs that will land you more interviews. Tips and examples of how to use skills and achievements in a simple resume format for freshers. How to describe your education on a resume for freshers to get any job you want.
A fresher resume, also known as a freshman resume in the US, is a resume for a first-year university student. Typically, fresher resumes have limited work experience, if any at all. They tend to focus on academic or extracurricular achievements and transferable skills gained from school projects or volunteer work.