How to Create a Resume for Recent College Graduates

Posted on May, 30, 2024 by Susan Schaefer, M.Ed., M.A.T, Founder & CEO
 

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
• 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. 

If your son or daughter is having a tough time with their job search and is not receptive to your help, career coaching is a great idea for two reasons. The first is obvious, people who have issues with ADHD/Executive Functions, and even those who don’t, often need someone to help them make a solid plan and follow through and hold them accountable. The other reason is to keep your relationship with your child healthy by removing you from the equation. And don’t forget to celebrate progress! To learn more about our career coaching services, check out Launch, a division of Academic Coaching Associates, that offers career coaching for young adults.