04 Jun How to Create a Resume for Recent College Graduates
Looking for a job after college graduation can be overwhelming. There are just so many things to consider, it’s hard to know where to start. Since a resume is needed to apply for all jobs, let’s start there.
Developing a resume as a recent college graduate can be challenging because there is usually not much in the way of professional experience. As a result, it is common to try to fluff up any experience to make them sound more relevant than they really were. I once received a resume that described their current job as a food designer with experience in client relations. In reality, the person made sandwiches and worked the register at a popular fast-food chain.
Instead, highlight your education, internships, volunteer work, and any relevant projects. Use action verbs and quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, if you completed a marketing internship, instead of saying “Worked on marketing projects,” say “Developed a social media strategy that increased engagement by 30% over three months.” But, only make claims that you can back up.
Resumes that get noticed:
- Are tailored for the job you are seeking
- Are well formatted and easy to read
- Elaborate experience that specifically relates to the job
- Use bullet points rather than paragraphs
- Include transferrable skills that match the job requirements
- Are one full page (2 pages max)
- Include scholarships, awards, leadership positions (clubs, fraternities/sororities)
Don’t include:
- References
- High school information
- Summer jobs while in high school
- GPA (exception if made dean’s list)
Make sure:
- There are no typos or spelling mistakes
- Your grammar is professional
- To have someone else proofread it
Would you like some resume advice from a professional? We are offering a free resume review and consultation for the first 20 people who respond! Just email hello@mylaunchcoaches.com with “resume review” in the subject.