🚀 Job Search Essentials for High School Graduates

Crafting Your First Resume (No Experience? No Problem!)

Your resume is your personal advertisement. Even if you don't have a lot of formal work experience, you have valuable skills!

• Contact Information: Your name, phone, professional email address.
• Objective/Summary: A short, punchy sentence about what kind of job you're looking for and what you bring (e.g., "Hardworking high school graduate seeking an entry-level position where strong customer service skills can be utilized.").
• Education: Your high school name, graduation date (or expected), GPA (if good), and any honors or relevant coursework.
• Experience (Broader View):
  • Volunteer Work: Any time you've helped out counts!
  • Extracurricular Activities: Sports, clubs, drama, school newspaper – highlight leadership roles or teamwork.
  • Babysitting/Pet Sitting/Yard Work: Informal jobs show responsibility.
  • Class Projects: Did you lead a team? Solve a problem?

  Mentor Advice: Focus on **action verbs** and **results**. Instead of "Was in band," try "Collaborated with 30 band members to perform at community events."

• Skills: List practical skills (e.g., Microsoft Office, social media, basic coding, customer service, communication, teamwork, problem-solving).
• Keep it Concise: For your first jobs, aim for one page.

There are many free online resume templates you can use to get started!
Download our high school resume template and guide here!

Ace Your Interview!

The interview is your chance to shine and show off your personality and potential.

• Research the Company/Job: Know what they do and what the job entails. This shows you're serious.
• Dress Appropriately: For most entry-level jobs, clean, neat, and slightly formal (like nice pants/skirt and a collared shirt or blouse) is a safe bet. When in doubt, overdress slightly.
• Practice Common Questions:
  • "Tell me about yourself." (Keep it concise, relevant to the job)
  • "Why do you want to work here?"
  • "What are your strengths/weaknesses?" (Be honest about weaknesses but explain how you're working on them)
  • "Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team." (Even from school projects!)
• Prepare Your Questions: Always have 1-2 questions to ask the interviewer (e.g., "What does a typical day look like in this role?" or "What are the opportunities for growth here?"). This shows engagement.
• Follow Up: Send a polite thank-you email within 24 hours.

Finding Opportunities: Where to Look

There are many places to discover job openings. Don't limit yourself!

• Online Job Boards: Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, ZipRecruiter are popular. Filter for "entry-level" or "no experience."
• Company Websites: Check the "Careers" section of companies you're interested in.
• Local Businesses: Many small businesses post "Help Wanted" signs or accept applications in person.
• Networking (Yes, Even Now!): Tell family, friends, teachers, and neighbors you're looking for a job. They might know of openings or someone who can help.
• High School Resources: Your school counselor might have a list of local employers hiring graduates.

Getting your first job can take some effort, but every application and interview is practice. Keep learning, stay positive, and you'll find the right fit!