Resume Ready, Interview Ace:
Landing Your First Gig

The world of business and careers might seem to belong firmly in the realm of adults; however, young men and women with ambition and a little know-how can get their foot in the door. The key is the resume and interview, the magical duo that unlocks opportunities for your first real gig. So put on your metaphorical business suit, and let's explore how to make these tools work for you!

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Resume Roundup: Your Story 

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Imagine that your resume is like a billboard advertising your skills and experience to prospective employers - a one to two-page summary that says, "Pick me! I'm the perfect choice for your team!"

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What Goes In a Resume?

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• Start with a Strong Header:

  • Your resume's header serves as your personal introduction. At the top, include your full name, phone number, email address, and possibly your LinkedIn profile (if you have one). Make sure your email address is professional; consider creating a separate email for professional correspondence if necessary. Something like HoofArted@myemail.com is funny, but it won’t impress a future employer.

• Craft a Compelling Objective:

  • This is definitely optional, but you can always start your resume off right by writing an effective objective or summary statement that showcases what makes you special- this is your chance to tell the employer what you're passionate about and what you bring to the table. Keep it concise and focused on your goals.

• Highlight Your Education:

  • In this section, provide details about your high school and graduation date as well as any relevant coursework or academic achievements you achieved during your school years. If you participated in any honors programs or earned industry certifications, make sure that is also mentioned here.

• Showcase Your Skills:

  • Create a section dedicated to your skills. This should include both soft or employability skills (like communication or teamwork) and hard skills (such as proficiency in specific software or languages). Tailor this section to align with the requirements of the position or opportunity you're applying for.

• Emphasize Your Experience:

  • Even if you haven't held a traditional job, chances are you have valuable experience you can share from volunteer work, clubs, extracurricular activities, or internships.  Focus on your responsibilities, accomplishments, and skills gained from each experience.

• Include Achievements and Awards:

  • If you've received any awards or recognition for your academic, athletic, or extracurricular achievements, don't be shy about including them. This adds a layer of distinction to your resume and can set you apart from other applicants.

• Highlight Leadership and Teamwork:

  • Employers often value individuals who can work well with others and take on leadership responsibilities. If you’ve been team captain, club president, or have taken any other such roles, be sure to highlight this experience when applying for jobs (and colleges)!

• Tailor Your Resume for Each Opportunity:

  • One size does not fit all when it comes to resumes- customize your resume for each specific opportunity by emphasizing the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position. This can take a little extra time, but it’s worth it!

• Keep it Neat and Readable:

  • Choose a clean and professional format when creating your resume, with legible fonts and an orderly organization of information. Your resume is a snapshot of who you are, so presentation matters.

• Proofread, Proofread, Proofread:

  • Before submitting your resume, carefully proofread it to catch any typos or errors. Ask a teacher, mentor, or friend to review it as well. A polished resume reflects your attention to detail.

Time to Interview: Conquering their Questions

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Interviews offer you an opportunity to showcase your strengths in person and convince the interviewers that you are their ideal candidate.

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Before each interview, research the company and position and practice common interview questions so you come across as confident and prepared. Dress professionally—your first impression matters, even in casual office settings. They’re trying to determine if you’re a good fit for the position, but remember that you also need to find out if the position is right for you! Ask thoughtful questions that demonstrate your curiosity and engagement.

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Remember:

• Be confident and positive! Believe in yourself, your skills, and your future!

• Be honest and genuine. Let your personality shine through.

• Follow up with a thank-you note to leave a lasting positive impression.

Resumes and interviews may seem intimidating at first, but with proper preparation and a bit of flair, you can land your dream gig! Even CEOs start somewhere - it’s time to show your skills and take that first step in conquering the world of work; your financial future awaits!

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Bonus Tip: Check out online resources like resume templates, interview guides, and mock interview platforms. Practice makes perfect!