Do I need a resume for my first job?

Yes, you need a resume for your first job. While there are many entry-level jobs that favor an application process rather than the submission of a resume, it is still something you should consider doing.

If nothing else, writing a resume for your first job gives you practice in crafting a resume, which is an essential skill to have in the professional world.

Here are some things to consider when writing your resume for your first job:

• Lack of professional experience.

If you don't have any professional work experience, that's okay. You can still write a resume and fill it with any kind of work-related experience, such as odd jobs you've had or ones where you weren't paid for the work.

This includes work like babysitting, mowing lawns, painting, dog walking or watching, or any number of other odd jobs.

• Include education.

If you have no working experience at all, that's okay too because you can put education details and skills from school, sports, and other extracurricular activities.

When filling in details about your education, it's important to include things like your GPA and extracurricular activities, whether they are sports or specific clubs; this is all appropriate information for your resume. Volunteer work is another great option for something to include on your resume.

• Create a skills section.

Even without official job experience, you can still include a skills section. You can touch on skills you've used during odd jobs or ones you have used during the course of your education.

A pro tip is to read the job listing or description for the role you are trying to obtain. It will likely list relevant skills that a strong candidate might need to have for the position. Try and match any of these skills with your unofficial job experience, or with your educational career.

Doing this shows the employer you are truly interested in the position.

While many first jobs don't require a resume, they usually just have an application for you to fill out. However, it is still recommended that you write one simply for the practice of doing it and because presenting a resume may give a great impression to your potential employer.