If you don't have formal work experience, list jobs like babysitting, yard work, participation as an officer in a club, and volunteer work on your application. Honors and awards are good evidence of a strong work ethic! Include yours to let employers know you have potential for their jobs.
If you have no experience or skills, focus on your education, volunteer work, and any relevant coursework. You can also include transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Consider listing hobbies or interests that may relate to the job.
If you don't have work experience, you don't need include that section on your resume. Instead, include education (formal and informal), projects, and volunteer experience. How are you qualified for what you are applying to? Make sure you tell that story on your resume.
Even if you don't have formal work experience, you still have achievements and skills that make you a strong candidate. In your body paragraphs, talk about academic projects, volunteer work, internships, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities that have helped you develop valuable skills.
When you don't know if the company is hiring Do your research. Include a traditional header. Use a professional greeting. Recognize the cold call. Write an attention-getting introduction. Explain why you like the company. Describe your strengths. Add a call to action.
Writing a resume with no formal work experience means emphasizing other aspects of your life that'll showcase your skills and passions—like your education and involvement in activities like extracurriculars or volunteering. Having dedicated sections for a summary and a list of skills can round out your resume.