What should I include in my resume?

Question

I am seeking a job as a graphic designer ( I'm still a student though) and have no work experience in my field yet. I don't know what I should put under experience in my resume because I don't have any. I'm afraid if I leave it out my resume will look too empty; with only my education, contact and skills info...


Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

Answer 1

You can only put experience if you have experience and as you have indicated that you are a student, they would not be surprised that you do not have experience, it was possible to gain experience if you worked through Summer, etc. however, if in your case this is not so, then prepare your resume as normal and leave out the experience column. Believe me it will not be frowned upon. Best of luck.

Answer 2

If you've done any projects as part of your schooling, you could put them under experience. Also, as others have said, list any volunteer or part-time related experience.

You probably have more experience than you think!

Based on your range of experience, you could call this section, "Relevant Experience".

Also, a nice way to present a resume (and honestly beef it up) is to include a "Skills Profile" at the beginning. Here, you list a few of your best skills (e..g organization, communication, graphic, computer, etc.) and under each skills, use bulleted statements to describe how you have developed these skills. Put the skills that are most essential to the job, first. For example:

SKILLS PROFILE

Graphic Design
- created graphic art for informational brochures about the current housing market
-
-

Organization
-
-


I have used this format on my resume for years and have found it quite successful. I've always gotten at least an interview for the jobs I've wanted.

Also, don't forget to list any scholarships or awards on your resume!

If you have any great references in your field, you may want to think about listing them on the resume, instead of "references available upon request".

You should probably also work on producing a stylish / unique looking resume, since you are in the field of graphic design.

Good luck and don't get discouraged! Making that transition from school to work is never easy.

Answer 3

For your resume (as well as in an interview) don't limit your experience to that which was gained on the job. Think about projects you did for classes, charities, etc. And don't forget that ANY work experience is helpful, not just work experience in your field. Did you work for someone during the summer who would give you a fantastic reference as to your ability to work with a team to accomplish goals or your general work ethic? Put it down! If you need any help feel free to contact me. Good luck!

Answer 4

Any part time jobs, any volunteer work, any hobbies that relate to your field.

Answer 5

You havent worked anywhere ever? If you've ever had part time work or volunteered put it there and if not, then just omit it.