Real advice for first-time and early-career applicants 

You do not need a long work history to have a strong resume. Employers are often looking for reliability, attitude, and fit — not just credentials. Here is how to build a resume that shows all three, even if this is your first or second application ever.

Lead with a two-sentence summary that fits the job

At the top of your resume, write two sentences that connect your background directly to this specific role. Read the posting carefully and reflect their language back. This small step tells a hiring manager immediately that you are not blasting out hundreds of identical applications — and that matters.

Turn non-work experience into real evidence

School projects, volunteer work, sports teams, and part-time gigs all count. The key is framing them as accomplishments rather than duties. Instead of “helped at the food bank,” write “coordinated weekend food distribution for 40+ families.” Numbers and outcomes make experience feel real and specific.

1. Pick three experiences — paid or unpaid — that relate to the job you want.
2. Write one bullet for each, starting with an action verb: led, built, organized, created, supported, improved.
3. Add a result or number wherever you honestly can: “served 30+ customers per shift,” “raised $400 for team equipment.”
4. Cut anything that does not relate to the specific job you are applying for.

INTERVIEW TIP

When asked “do you have experience with X?” and you do not — never just say no. Say: “I haven’t done that specifically, but here’s something similar I handled…” and give a real example.

Employers value self-awareness and a learning mindset far more than a perfect match on paper.

Follow up — most candidates never do

Two to five days after applying, send a short email confirming your application and reiterating your interest. One sentence is enough. It puts your name in front of a hiring manager a second time and signals initiative — which is exactly what employers say they want from younger hires.

Super tip: If you are really interested in the position, send an follow up email as soon as possible

FORMAT MATTERS

Keep your resume to one page. Use a clean font like Arial or Calibri at 11pt. No photos, graphics, or colour — many employers use automated systems that cannot read heavily designed files. Plain formatting ensures your words actually get read.