RESUME WRITING

How to Write a Resume as a Teenager — Even With Zero Experience

Last updated: May 2026

Writing your first resume feels impossible when you think you have nothing to show. But every teenager has something worth putting on a resume — you just need the right framing.

The Biggest Mistake Teens Make on Resumes

❌Leaving it blank because they think they have no experience

❌Writing duties instead of achievements

❌Using the same resume for every job

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What Counts as Experience (Even If You Don't Think It Does)

Babysitting or pet sitting
Volunteering at school or community events
Sports team membership or captaincy
School clubs, student council, debate
Informal jobs — lawn mowing, tutoring neighbors
Any online courses or certifications completed

Resume Format for Teenagers

A teen resume follows a simple one-page format with these sections in order: Contact Info, Objective Statement, Education, Experience & Activities, Skills, and Certifications (if any). Each section should be clearly labeled and easy to scan.

Tip

Keep it to one page. Recruiters spend 7 seconds scanning a resume — make it easy to read.

Before & After Example

❌ Before

was in student council

✅ After

Student Council Representative — presented student concerns to faculty board of 12 teachers; helped organize school charity drive raising $800