how to make a resume for a fresher

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The Ultimate 2022 Resume Format for Freshers Guide [Expert samples from over 100,000 users]

Top 5 tactics to create the best fresher resume format:.

• Don’t simply list what coursework and internships you’ve done. It helps a hiring manager if they can learn about the important things you did in those roles (e.g. started ACM student chapter in Mumbai around Artificial intelligence and control theory)
• Make sure that you use the right resume buzzwords and avoid the bad ones
• Modify your resume to match the interests of the organization you are applying to
• Don’t be vague, paint a complete picture of who you are and how you are a good for the job
• Design your resume with care and make sure your most valuable work catches recruiter’s attention
• Don’t build a 10+ page resume just to show everything you’ve ever done. Remember, it is your resume, not your biography

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How to create the best fresher resume format?

Make it one page.

In case you don’t know, there is a generally accepted industry standard on resume page length. Ideally, it should be one page for every 10 years of experience. Given that you’re about to graduate and have just started working, you should really only have a one page resume . A one page resume is not only more organized, but quickly helps a recruiter identify your key skills and shortlist you. Imagine getting 100 ten page resumes every day. Going through that is like reading a 1,000 page book!

Make your resume relevant to the role

Don’t underestimate your skills just because you lack work experience. One technique you can try is breaking down the job into 5 different parts and see how you can reflect in your resume that you have covered some (or all) parts. This increases the relevance of your resume to a hiring manager significantly. For example, to apply for a Junior software engineer role you can easily break it down to 5 parts. First is programming language, second is algorithmic knowledge, third is quality/scalability, fourth is GIT/JIRA (i.e. deployment tools), and fifth is database. Now, if you crafted a resume that reflects you mastering 3 programming languages, being proficient with well known algorithms and having used deployment tools. By doing so, you are creating the exact fresh resume format that a hiring manager is looking for!

Show your experience

A majority of employers out there want to see the difference you can make to their organization. Sadly, most freshers don’t account for this when they craft their resume or even while sending job applications. From your volunteering experience to your internships, try to show what you did and the impact it made. Use exact numbers when possible. If you’ve taken relevant coursework, certifications - make sure you don’t miss these important details. Proactively promoting your experience is often the most important factor to a positive assessment of your resume.

Conduct a resume review

• Spelling and grammar mistakes
• Inconsistent punctuation
• Broken website links
• Incorrect contact information
• Long or unclear sentences

Secure impactful references

References can have a huge impact on your application. They are also a critical part of application tracking systems (ATS) that a vast majority of large organizations use. References in resume formats can be of two types: References of someone within the target organization, and references of a well known industry professional. If you get referred by an existing employee of the organization, your resume has a much higher chance of landing you an interview. And, if you cite the reference of a well known industry professional, your resume will definitely land you an interview.

10 sections recruiters and hiring managers are looking for in a fresher resume format

1. Your Resume Header

Your resume’s header is the first thing that any recruiter will see. Typically, a header has contact information, website link(s), a linkedin profile, and other social links. Make sure that your contact information is up to date, and only add emails that look professional. Ideally, a professional email looks something like '[email protected]'. Also, keep the number of things in your resume format header to a minimum. Your goal is to give recruiters a quick sense of who you are and how to contact you, not overwhelm them with a lot of information.

2. Personal Summary

A personal summary and a fresher resume don’t exactly match all of the time. Almost 90% of freshers write a summary like this in their resume: “My goal is to grow professionally and contribute to your esteemed organization and learn more” This doesn’t work for many reasons. First, this doesn’t say anything about what you really want to do. Second, it fails to convey relevance your resume to the job. And, third, it makes you sound passive and shows a lack of enthusiasm. A better version of a personal summary (for a design related role) would go in depth, connect your skills and goals with the role that you are applying for. Here’s an example: “To become one of the best UX designers in the world by practising minimalism, design systems with optimized onboarding for large scale software products. I have a keen interest in UX research, information architecture, and motion designs which drive my desire to accomplish great things in my career.” As you can clearly see, a hiring manager that looks at this professional summary will now understand who you are and what your motivation is for applying to the role. They will be more likely to take notice and evaluate your resume carefully. Mission accomplished!

• Relevant to the role you’re applying for
• Recognizable within your target industry
• A mix of both soft and hard skills
• Software skills (proficiency with AutoCAD)
• Planning and management skills (Expert in SAP SCS planning)
• Predictive Analytics (Implementing customer lifecycle analytics using Tableau)
• Market research (Identifying the right, most profitable customers)
• Inventory management (keeping record of SKUs and managing demand supply pipeline)
• MS Word and Google docs
• Your typing speed (unless you are applying to be a typist)
• Anything that’s not relevant to the role you are applying for

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4. Your Experience

Underestimating work experience is something that’s common across most fresher resumes. A lot of companies that hire freshers usually look for relevant projects or coursework. A relevant example of experience could be something that you did in your coursework, lab, projects or during your internship and can count as a professional grade working experience.

5. Education

A lot of job requirements clearly demand a level of education (undergraduate, post graduate, PhD). Clearly listing them out in a way a recruiter can quickly understand helps your job application in getting closer to being shortlisted. When you add your education to your resume, make sure to mention the important and relevant coursework in it. For example, if you are a mechanical engineering student, highlighting that you’ve gone through Production Planning helps you to be seen as a more relevant candidate for an Automotive Engineering role.

6. Languages

• English : IELTS CEFR B2
• Tamil : Native Language
• Hindi : Fluent in reading, writing and speaking
• German : Full professional proficiency (ILR scale)

7. Most Proud Of

Did you do something in your college life that you’re incredibly proud of? Adding this section helps you standout from other applicants. After testing it with 100,000+ resume applications, it has proven to be very effective. Freshers can usually add things like a college project, an open source contribution, an achievement in sports, a fellowship, published research papers, etc to name a few.

8. Life Philosophy

So far, most of the sections we’ve gone through were more focused on your work-related skills. But, hiring is also about cultural fit. Take this chance to be more impactful with your resume format. Fortunately, showcasing your life philosophy doesn’t take much. You can simply reflect it by including a quote from a significant figure or a quote that you live by.

9. Certificates and Courses

Often, freshers undergo a number of certification and other courses during college. These courses and certificates can often help you gain first hand experience and prepare you well for your professional career. They are often critical in crafting a winning fresher resume format.

10. References

We spoke about using references and how including them is a part of the best fresher resume format. When you write your references section, ensure to add their name, designation, a contact number and email information.

How to get a referral for the role you want after graduating

As a fresher, you should try to leverage your existing networks to gain job referrals. A job referral is an incredibly powerful way to land a job as referrals often standout from the rest of job applications. If you are unsure on where to get started, your college alumni, your professors and your social network (Linkedin, Facebook, etc) could be the first place. Here’s a detailed guide to getting job referrals (email outreach template included!) that just might come in handy to get job referrals.

Check out our guide on getting referrals for any job you’re applying for.

Trying to land an interview? Check out more winning resume examples for inspiration

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How to Format a Resume for Freshers

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What is a fresher resume?

The best format for a fresher resume, how to write a resume for a fresher.

A fresher resume is written for a person without previous work experience. Freshers are typically college graduates or people with some education who are looking to enter the workforce for the first time. When you search for resume tips, you’re likely to find examples centered around work experience, but there are ways to craft a resume without solely focusing on your career background. In this article, you’ll learn how to format a resume for freshers and gain valuable insight from selected fresher resume examples.

While a fresher may not have former workforce experience, that doesn’t mean they don’t have any relative skills or experience. Freshers with a college background are especially likely to have a wide array of experiences that have helped them develop skills relevant to certain jobs.

Although most job applicants will use a chronological resume format, listing their earliest experience first then writing entries by order of occurrence, a functional resume format is much more flexible and suited for applicants without much work experience. In a functional format, experience is defined in wider terms, coming from a variety of sources. This format can fulfill the underlying requirements of a resume without explicitly focusing on prior work experience.

Here are three factors that should be the cornerstone of any fresher resume:

1. First, describe your education

The education section is where a fresher can truly shine. Since a fresher’s educational experiences are typically the most impressive, it’s usually best to list this section first. Most freshers are recent (or soon will be) college graduates, so you should highlight your institution and area of study. Instead of simply listing your major and degree, you can also include any earned accomplishments and awards. 

Consider listing any skills attained from your education that are relevant to a particular job as well. You can detail some of the more rigorous projects you completed during your studies, especially if they involved managing others. 

Master of Computer Science, Georgia Tech, 2017–2019

• Major in computer science with a specialization in high-performance computing
• Managed a group of 20+ students in completing a large project involving programming languages and computer architecture
• Won the 2018 Champions of Computer Science Award

Bachelor of Computer Science, Georgia Tech, 2013–2017

• Major in computer science with a specialization in computing systems and architecture
• Minor in computing and business

2. Second, list your relevant skills

This section is a little different than it would be in a chronological format resume. Your experience and education should be enough to justify your skills, and all you have to do is list them. By listing suitable hard and soft skills, relevant to the job you’re applying for, you show employers you’re qualified. For example, you’ll want to include leadership and communication skills for virtually any position, but industry-specific skills like knowledge of Java, C++, and other programming languages, should be included in an IT resume. If you’re a graphic designer, instead of programming languages, you might list your Photoshop and Illustrator skills.

3. Then, include any formal experience you might have

When writing your experience section, you might not have much formal work to draw from. If you had an internship, especially in the field you’re applying for, you should definitely include it. For example, you might only have a part-time retail job you worked during high school. However, just because you’re applying to a different industry doesn’t mean your retail job isn’t important experience. You should still list this position in your work experience section, but explain how your responsibilities relate to the job you’re applying for. For example, a retail job could have developed your communication and leadership skills.

Computer Engineering Intern, Computechtron ,  2018–2019

• Troubleshot programs and assisted programmers in compiling codes to optimize existing software
• Assisted with the installation of a new server and upgrade of existing servers to help boost efficiency by 15%
• Used Java and C++ to build data storage solutions for several clients using cloud technology

How to Write Your First Job Resume [For 2024]

So there you are, sitting in front of a screen, staring at a blank Word page for hours, with one task at hand: writing your first job resume.

Where do you even start?

And most importantly: How do you fill those 1-2 pages when you have no work experience?

We feel your struggle and we’re here to help!

In this article, we’re going to guide you through the entire process of creating a first job resume from start to finish.

Let’s dive right in, shall we?

How to Write Your First Job Resume

• Pick the right resume template
• Write down your contact information (correctly)
• Include a resume objective
• List your education (in detail)
• Instead of work experience, focus on…
• Highlight your skills
• Mention optional sections
• Stick to the one-page limit
• Get inspired by a first-job resume example

Don’t worry, we’re going to cover all of the above in detail!

Starting with the first step:

#1. Pick the Right First Job Resume Format and Template

There are 3 main resume formats you can pick from. Each of them highlights a different part of your resume.

• Reverse-Chronological Resume - In this format, your work experiences and education are listed in reverse-chronological order. 
• Functional Resume - Instead of work experience, this format focuses on your skills and achievements.
• Combination (or Hybrid) Resume - This format focuses on both your skills and work experience.

For 99% of job-seekers, we recommend sticking with the reverse-chronological format.

While a functional resume can sometimes help for career changers or recent graduates, it’s still nowhere near as common as the reverse chronological one.

Plus, recruiters world-wide are familiar with the reverse-chronological format, making it a safer bet.

A reverse-chronological resume looks as follows:

Once you’ve picked the format, the next step is to perfect your layout, font, and the like. Here’s what we recommend for that:

• Use a Two-Column Layout. A two-column resume layout allows you to fit a lot more content into your resume.
• Pick a Common Font. We recommend Ubuntu, Overpass, or Roboto.
• Use Bullets to Describe Your Experiences.
• Don’t Go Over One Page. Unless you’re a professional with a decade of work experience, we recommend sticking to the one-page resume limit.

Want to avoid all the hassle of formatting your resume layout? We don’t blame you - if you wanted to build a good-looking resume from scratch, it would take you hours before you could even start filling it in.

Thankfully, there’s an easier way out: using a resume builder.

With Novoresume, all you have to do is pick a template, and fill in the contents. It’s that simple.

And on top of that, Novorésumé resumes are ATS-friendly . Meaning, your resume won’t be swallowed up by an applicant tracking system just because it can’t read it.

Want to get started with Novorésumé? Browse our resume templates .

#2. Write Down Your Contact Information (Correctly)

It’s important for the recruiter to have at least two ways of reaching back to you.

Meaning, you should always provide your contact information in your resume . That includes: 

• First and last name
• Phone number

Apart from these must-haves, you can also provide:

• LinkedIn URL - This is a good way to complement your resume. It also makes the recruiter’s life easier since they usually check your LinkedIn profile anyway. Make sure all information is updated and consistent with your resume, though.
• Relevant social media (like Quora or StackOverflow) - Any social media that is related to the job position and puts you in good light should be included in your resume. In most cases. If you’re a developer, it could be projects on GitHub. Writer? Personal blog.
• Website or blog - Again, this should be something related to the job. It shows your interest and dedication to the industry and how you spend some of your free time.

When it comes to your contact information, the key is to write everything correctly . Double-check you’ve spelled your name and email right, make sure the phone number you’ve listed can be reached, and that the accounts you have linked to are up to date . 

Something else you should know regarding location is how much detail you should be providing. 

The reason recruiters want to know your location is so that they have an idea of whether you’re in the vicinity of the company or not (and if you’ll need to relocate for work). 

That means, providing the city and country where you live will be enough. No need for your full home address. 

#3. Include a Resume Objective

Recruiters spend on average 7 seconds scanning each resume before deciding if it’s worth more consideration or not. 

That means your resume has about 7 seconds to leave a great first impression and convince the recruiter you’re the person they’re looking for.

A good resume objective does that for you. 

A resume objective is a 2-3 sentence snapshot of your skills, achievements, and career goals . Its purpose is to communicate your motivation for getting into the field and your interest in this particular position. 

This makes it ideal for the first job resume of a recent graduate or somebody who’s changing careers. Basically, any resume with no work experience . 

Your resume objective should be tailored to the position you are applying for and highlight skills that will help the company achieve its goal. Use as many facts and numbers as you can to back up any statements or achievements. 

• Creative and motivated recent graduate with a B.A. in Marketing from the University of Michigan. Seeking permanent employment in the field of marketing after completing successful internships in 2 major media companies. Looking to further develop my market analysis skills and contribute to future marketing strategy developments at XY Company.
• I am looking to put my marketing skills into action by initially working for the marketing department of a well-known company until I can finally get to an executive position.

#4. List Your Education (In Detail)

For starters, you should know how to list your education entries correctly in the following format:

• Program Name e.g.: B.A. in Information Systems
• University Name e.g.: University of Chicago
• Years Attended e.g.: 07/2013 - 05/2017
• GPA (only if really high)
• Honors (If applicable) e.g. Cum Laude

Exchange Program (If applicable) e.g. Exchange program in Berlin, Germany

Apart from your skills, your education is the biggest selling point in your first job resume. This is not the place to be humble and play down your achievements!

Write down your GPA (if it’s something impressive), emphasize your honors, and most importantly, highlight your academic achievements by describing them in detail.  

What you can also do is list specific courses that you have taken that are relevant to the position you are applying for. 

Here’s an example of what an entry on the education section should look like:

B.A. in English Literature (Cum Laude)

Boston University

07/2014 - 05/2018

• Courses: Advanced Topics in Literature: Shakespeare’s Work 
• Clubs: Boston University Drama Club
• Exchange program in London, UK

#5. Instead of Work Experience, Focus On This

As a recent graduate, the recruiter knows you don’t have any work experience - and that’s OK. As long as you’re applying for a junior or entry-level position, the experience isn’t something expected from you.

Instead, the recruiter will be looking for other experiences that enrich your profile, like:

• Internships
• Extracurricular Activities

When talking about these experiences, format them just like you’d format your work experience. 

Business Analyst Internship

AAA Company

Milan, Italy

05/2019 - 12/2019

• Ran weekly and monthly analysis on diverse areas of the business
• Created insightful reports of the analysis to present to managers and teams
• Defined strategic KPIs, in order to monitor the efficiency of commercial operations

When possible, try to focus on listing your achievements and not your responsibilities. This will help you stand out from the rest of the applicants.

Haven’t done any internships? Include extracurricular activities.

More often than not, an applicant with extracurricular activities and an average GPA will impress the recruiter much more than a 4.0 GPA student with nothing else to show. When listing your extracurricular activities, each entry should have the following format:

Moot Court Club Member

2017 - 2019

• Participated for two years in a row at the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition, making it to the finals in 2019
• Researched and prepared written pleadings, called memorials addressing timely issues of public international law
• Helped train the new club members in topics of international law

Finally, you can also list independent projects, if you have any. Think, something you did on the side just for yourself. This can be a personal project, small business or startup, side-gig, blog, etc.

Amy’s Book Club Blog

2018 - Present

• Created my own book club website for reviewing and discussing the latest books.
• Curated a monthly book calendar for my followers to follow, combining trending, relevant, and classic books.
• Created over 40 book review articles.
• On average, received 2000 visitors per month to the blog.

#6. Highlight Your Skills

The two types of skills you can mention on your resume are soft skills and hard skills.

Soft skills are attributes that help you adapt to work environments, work in a team, and apply your hard skills effectively. They are related to your personality, social skills, communication, attitude, etc.

Hard skills refer to technical knowledge and specific tools. They are skills that one learns and applies directly to the job. Some examples of hard skills include:

• Financial accounting
• Adobe Illustrator

Although soft skills are becoming more and more in demand by employers , for your first job resume, we recommend sticking to hard skills. 

Sure, attributes like “teamwork” or “critical thinking” are much appreciated by just about any employer. 

The thing is, though, the recruiter can’t really tell if you actually have critical thinking skills, or just listed it on your resume to fill space.

Hard skills, on the other hand, are very easy to test.

Tailor Skills to the Job Ad

Not sure which skills to mention in your first job resume?

The simplest way to find the essential ones is to check the job ad.

The recruiter themselves mentioned the skills they’re looking for - the only thing you need to do is mention them in your resume (as long as you have them, anyway).

Let’s say you’re applying for a graphic designer position that wants the following qualifications and skills:

• Adobe Creative Suite proficiency, particularly InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop and Acrobat; XD, Animate and/or After Effects are a plus
• Working knowledge of presentation software (Canva, PowerPoint and/or Keynote)
• Ability to work under pressure, manage work on multiple projects daily, manage a large workload and meet deadlines.
• Detail-oriented, highly organized

Based on that, your skills section should include the following:

• Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Acrobat
• After Effects and Cinema4D
• Canva and Keynote
• Time management
• Detail-oriented

If the job ad isn’t too descriptive, you can also check out these 101+ most in-demand skills for 2024 . 

#7. Mention Optional Sections

Still have some space on your resume?

That’s not a bad thing! You can use this space to your advantage and add some other useful sections.

Here are some ideas:

• Volunteering - If you have some volunteering experience, make sure to include it in your first job resume. Such a section shows commitment, dedication, and a sense of purpose, something most recruiters will appreciate.
• Languages - With companies becoming more and more international, additional languages are always appreciated.
• Hobbies - You can show your genuine interest in the industry or field by listing some relevant hobbies/interests.
• Awards & Certifications - Whether it’s an award from an essay competition in college or a certificate from an online course, anything that flatters your profile should be added.

#8. Stick to the One-Page Limit

“ How long should a resume be? ” seems like an eternal dilemma at this point. 

Generally, the answer is: it depends. 

Since you’re making a first job resume, the answer is: definitely one page . 

Unless you have an extensive employment history that can’t fit into one page, there’s no need to go over that limit. 

It’s unlikely that the recruiter will want to look at two pages of extracurriculars and hobbies. 

#9. Get Inspired by This First-Job Resume

Need some inspiration for your resume? Check out the resume examples below.

First Job Resume FAQ 

Still have some questions on how to write a convincing first job resume?

We’ll answer them here.

1. What do I put on my no-experience resume?

There’s plenty of other things you can include in your resume instead of work experience. For starters, you should:

• Focus on your education, making sure the entries are formatted correctly.
• Pick the right skills that match what the employer is looking for.
• Talk about internships, personal projects, or extracurricular activities. Describe your achievements in detail.

If you still have some space left, you could use it to your advantage and add extra sections like volunteer work, languages, awards & certificates, or hobbies.

2. Is a resume necessary for a first job?

Depending on the region, a resume or CV is always necessary for a job application, be it the first or the 20th. 

Before deciding if they should call you for an interview, the recruiters need to have some insight into you and your skills.

3. Do I need work experience to land my first job?

Short answer: You don’t! 

If you’re a recent graduate, it’s a given that you won’t have any work experience. Most employers don’t actually expect years of work experience for an entry-level or junior position. 

Instead, they’ll be looking at your other types of experiences (internships, extracurricular activities, etc.) to decide on whether you’re a good fit for the job or not.

4. How do you write a resume for your first job?

The process is quite similar to the one for writing a regular resume, but with a few tweaks.

The exact steps for creating a first job resume are:

• Instead of work experience, focus on extracurricular activities, internships, projects, etc.

Key Takeaways

Writing your first job resume doesn’t have to be stressful!

Remember the following tips and you’ll do just fine:

• Pick the right format and template to avoid the hassle of formatting your resume. Make sure to pick an ATS-friendly resume template.
• Write a concise and attention-grabbing resume objective. Show the recruiter that you’re relevant for the role and that they should read the rest of your resume.
• Instead of work experience, include information on your internships, projects, and extracurricular activities.

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Fresher Resume Examples - A Comprehensive Guide | Workruit

Fresher resume examples: how to create an impressive resume with little to no experience, the importance of a well-crafted resume for freshers.

When launching your career, a well-crafted resume is pivotal in making a lasting impression on potential employers. As a fresher entering the job market, your resume is a snapshot of your skills, qualifications, and potential. It can significantly impact your chances of an interview or job offer. The upcoming sections will explain how a well-crafted resume is essential and show a few fresher resume examples .

Challenges Faced by Freshers in Creating a Compelling Resume

When writing resumes, new graduates frequently confront particular difficulties. Creating a CV might be intimidating due to a lack of industry exposure, relevant professional experience, and the need to stand out. However, these difficulties can be addressed with the proper strategy and comprehension, and your resume will be able to highlight your ability correctly.

Understanding a Fresher Resume's Objective

A resume for a recent graduate has several uses:

It draws attention to the transferrable talents and relevant experiences you've amassed through volunteer work, internships, part-time jobs, and extracurricular activities.

Your education and academic achievements are highlighted, emphasising your dedication to learning.

It emphasises your potential and passion for advancement, demonstrating to potential employers that you are a promising candidate.

Determining the Goals and Purpose of a Freshers' Resume

Understanding the role and objectives of your resume as a fresher is critical.

Emphasise Relevant Experiences and Transferable Skills

Although you may need more professional experience as a new employee, your time spent in internships, part-time work, volunteering, and extracurricular activities has given you good transferrable abilities. You can spotlight these skills on your CV to demonstrate your potential and suitability for the desired employment. Check out fresher resume examples to get a better idea.

Describe your transferable skills: leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and flexibility. Consider how to utilise these skills in your desired position and highlight them in your CV. Use brief and convincing bullet points to highlight your experiences and how they have helped you gain these talents. In addition, emphasise experiences that are relevant to the job you are pursuing. 

Any internships, projects, or volunteer work you have done should illustrate your ability to use your skills in real-world scenarios. Describe the tasks you did, the challenges you experienced, and the outcomes you obtained. A proper resume format for freshers can help potential employers understand your qualifications and what you can offer their firm.

Prioritising Academic Achievements and Education 

For newcomers, establishing credibility and demonstrating a commitment to learning to rely on education and academic achievements. Your educational background may provide insight into your knowledge base and ability to learn new ideas and concepts.

In the education section of your CV, provide information about your degree, college, graduation date, and any relevant coursework. Any awards, prizes, or scholarships you have received should be mentioned. Identify any significant activities or research you have completed while pursuing your studies to demonstrate your ability to use theoretical knowledge in real-world circumstances.

In addition, if you have finished any relevant training programs or credentials, provide them in your education section or individually. These additional certifications complement your résumé and demonstrate your dedication to lifelong learning.

Showcasing potential and enthusiasm for learning and growth

When showcasing your potential and spirit for learning and development in your resume format for freshers, you must demonstrate your willingness to acquire new skills and take on challenges.

Highlight relevant coursework and projects: If you have taken courses or completed projects directly related to the job you're applying for, emphasise them in your resume. This shows your commitment to learning and ability to apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Showcase certifications and professional development: Include any certifications or professional development courses you have completed. This demonstrates your proactive learning approach and dedication to staying updated in your field. 

Emphasise extracurricular activities: If you have participated in clubs, organisations, or activities outside your academic studies, highlight them. These experiences can showcase your leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and willingness to engage in personal growth beyond the classroom.

Structuring a Fresher Resume

When structuring your resume as a fresher, check our few fresher resume examples and organise the content clearly and concisely. Let's explore the key elements that should be included in your resume to make it impactful and well-structured.

Contact Information and Personal Details

Start your resume by providing your contact information at the top of the page. Include your full name, contact number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable). Ensure this information is accurate and current so potential employers can contact you for further consideration.

Statement of purpose or summary: Adapting it to the Job Application,

Include an objective or summary statement highlighting your professional aims and the value you can bring to the company. This section should be tailored to the specific job application you are pursuing. Summarise your abilities, experiences, and ambitions in a few sentences, showcasing your interest and alignment with the position.

A section on Education: Emphasis on Academic Qualifications, Relevant Coursework, and Projects

Provide information about your academic credentials in the education area. Include the title of your degree, the university or institution you attended, your graduation date, and, if applicable, your GPA. Describe any relevant coursework or projects demonstrating your skill in the desired role.

Finding and Effectively Presenting Relevant Skills in the Skills Section

Make a section highlighting your skills and applicable technical, people, and transferrable skills. Determine and briefly state the essential qualifications for the position you're applying for. Use bullet points and detailed examples like those given in a fresher resume example to show how you have acquired and used these skills.

Highlighting Internships, Part-Time Jobs, Volunteer Work, and Extracurricular Activities in the Experience Section

You can emphasise relevant internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities even if you have little professional experience. Describe the tasks you undertook, the things you achieved, and the skills you learned. Focus on showcasing your capacity to contribute productively in a workplace or team setting.

Additional Sections: Including Workshops, Certifications, and Related Affiliations

Include relevant qualifications, workshops, or training courses you have taken. These additional credentials prove your dedication to lifelong study and professional growth. Mention any relevant affiliations, such as participation in industry-related events or membership in professional organisations.

Tips for formatting and design: Make the resume Resume Visually Appealing and Simple to Read

Make sure your resume has a clean, professional layout so that it is both eye-catching and straightforward to read. Utilise distinct headings, bullet points, and a unified font style. Avoid overusing images or colours that could detract from the content. Ensure your resume is well-organised, skimmable, and well-structured so employers can immediately determine your most important skills and experiences.

Showing Off Your Strengths and Transferable Skills

It would be best to highlight your strengths and transferrable talents to make an attractive, more recent CV. These abilities, which can be valuable assets in the job, are acquired through various non-professional experiences. Let's look at how you may emphasise your transferrable talents and show potential employers how they are relevant with reference from a few fresher sample examples.

Identifying Your Non-Professional Experiences' Transferable Skills

Non-professional activities like volunteering, internships, part-time employment, and participation in student organisations can give you transferable skills useful in the workforce. Decide which abilities, such as leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, communication, organisation, and flexibility, you have honed through these experiences. To find the transferable talents applicable to your intended field, return to the tasks you completed and the difficulties you faced.

Highlighting interpersonal, cooperative, and problem-solving skills

Soft talents frequently sought after by companies are essential to your professional success. Draw attention to soft skills like critical thinking, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Give concrete instances from your non-professional experiences where you have used these abilities, such as managing a team project, settling disagreements, or clearly expressing your thoughts.

Giving Concrete Examples of Transferable Skills

When describing your transferrable talents, it is critical to give specific examples of how you've used them in actual circumstances. Give examples of specific projects, efforts, or difficulties where you used your transferrable talents to get results. To demonstrate your abilities and the impact you had, use action verbs and quantitative outcomes in your resume for freshers.

Tailoring the Resume for Specific Job Applications,

You must modify your CV for every job application for the best chance of success. This entails tailoring your CV to the target company's and the position's needs. Here's how to change your resume successfully: 

Researching the Target Company and Job Requirements: 

Conduct an extensive study on the target organisation and the particular job criteria before drafting your CV. Recognise the company's culture, values, and area of specialisation. Examine the job description to find the critical competencies, credentials, and experiences they seek. You can match the needs of the organisation and your fit for the position with the help of this study and your CV.

Customising the Resume to Align with the Specific Job Description

Once you have gathered the necessary information, customise your resume to align with the job description. Highlight your relevant coursework, projects, or skills directly related to the job requirements. Use keywords from the job description to optimise your resume for ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) many employers use to filter resumes.

Highlighting Relevant Coursework, Projects, or Skills in Resume for Freshers

Include them prominently on your resume if you have completed any coursework or projects directly related to the position you seek. This exhibits your aptitude for the position and highlights your knowledge and expertise in particular fields.

Enhancing the Fresher Resume with Additional Components

Add extra elements to your CV to help it stand out and strengthen your application.

Introduction in a Cover Letter or Email: Customising the Application

You can personalise your application by including a well-written cover letter or email introduction with your resume. Make the most of this chance to express your interest in the job, showcase your relevant experience and talents, and show how passionate you are about the organisation and the position.

Including a Portfolio or Work Samples

Consider building a portfolio and including a link or attaching pertinent examples to your CV if you have work samples, such as completed projects, design samples, writing samples, or code snippets. It enables employers to see concrete proof of your abilities and expertise.

Utilising a LinkedIn profile and other essential online profiles

Include a link on your CV to your professional LinkedIn profile. An updated LinkedIn profile details your experiences, abilities, and successes. Make sure your internet persona matches your CV and is professional.

Finalising and Reviewing the Resume

Ensure your CV is flawless before submitting it by carefully proofreading and editing it. It gives the finest possible impression of you.

Correction of Spelling, Grammar, and Formatting Errors

Check your resume carefully for any formatting, grammatical, or spelling problems. Typos or errors can provide the wrong impression. To find any mistakes, use proofreading tools, ask for input from others, and read your resume aloud.

Getting input from teachers, mentors, or career counsellors

Consult mentors, educators, or career counsellors for their opinions since they can offer insightful commentary and constructive criticism. They can help you determine how to improve your resume and increase its impact.

Ensuring the Resume is Concise, Flawless, and Presentable

Finally, ensure your CV is brief, clear of mistakes, and displays a professional image. Utilise distinct titles, bullet points, and a regular format. Ensure it is organised and straightforward, with the best resume format for freshers.

How do you write a resume profile with no experience?

When constructing a resume template for freshers or a profile without experience, emphasise your abilities, education, and related coursework or projects. Emphasise your ambition to contribute to the organisation and your enthusiasm for learning. Showcase any internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities demonstrating your transferable talents and dedication to personal development. Create a fascinating profile that captures the attention of potential employers by combining keywords and action verbs.

What is the greatest resume format for someone with no experience?

Individuals who have yet to earn experience are generally advised to use a functional resume format. This structure prioritises talents, education, and accomplishments over chronological employment experience. Begin with a summary or profile statement highlighting your most important abilities and qualifications. 

Education, related coursework, projects, internships, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities should come next. Include a skills section where you identify the talents you need for the position you're looking for. This style allows you to demonstrate your abilities and potential without professional experience. A sample resume for freshers is available for reference.

How do I make an impressive resume for freshers?

To create an impressive resume for freshers , follow these tips:

• Tailor your resume to the job you are applying for, highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to the role.

• Focus on your education, academic achievements, and relevant coursework or projects.

• Highlight any internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that showcase your skills and dedication.

• Use action verbs and quantitative data to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities.

• Include a skills section listing your relevant technical and soft skills.

• Use a clean and professional resume template with consistent formatting.

• Proofread your resume carefully to eliminate any errors or typos.

What do I put for experience on a resume if I have never worked?

Focus on prior experiences that have given you transferable skills if this is your first job, including internships, volunteer work, part-time employment, and membership in clubs or student organisations. Explain your duties and responsibilities in these positions, emphasising your acquired abilities. Showcase any pertinent assignments, coursework, or certificates demonstrating your skills and learning commitment.

How would you express that you lack experience but are eager to learn?

Highlight your eagerness and love for learning new things when you say you lack experience but are willing to learn. In your resume, mention something like "Motivated and eager to gain hands-on experience," "Enthusiastic about learning and adapting to new challenges," or "Quick learner with a strong desire to grow and contribute." To succeed in the position, emphasise your readiness to take on new obligations, undergo training, and put in the necessary time and effort. It shows that despite having little professional experience, you have a good mindset and are determined to succeed.

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Are you a recent graduate or someone who is just starting out in your career?

While the pressure of finding a great job and kick-starting your career looms around you, the best thing you can do to relieve some of this pressure is by making a stellar resume.

Your resume is the key to receiving a callback for an interview and landing your dream job. Therefore, it needs to showcase the best of your academic trajectory as a fresher.

And given that as a fresher you might not have hands-on experience in the industry, your resume must highlight your skills, qualifications, and drive to leverage your knowledge to advance in your career and benefit the company you’re hoping to join.

One of the crucial sections of your resume that can not only help you stand out from the crowd of applicants but also intrigue the recruiters is your freshers resume summary.

If you want to learn effective tips and tricks on writing a compelling freshers resume summary, read on.

• What is a freshers resume summary and why is it important?
• How to write profile summary in resume for freshers?
• What are some good resume summary examples for freshers?
• What is an example of a great IT support resume summary for freshers?

What is a Fresher Resume Summary and Why is it Important?

• A freshers resume summary is a brief section consisting of 2-3 lines that highlights the most relevant and impressive skills, qualifications, academic achievements, and internship/volunteer experience of a candidate for a specific position.

This section is typically found at the top part of a resume and serves as an overview of the candidate’s career trajectory.

The importance of a fresher resume summary lies in the fact that it is generally the first thing that recruiters read when assessing a resume and therefore needs to be intriguing enough to grab the recruiters’ attention.

While most freshers write a resume objective instead of a summary, the difference between the two is that a resume objective states the candidate’s career goals and aspirations, while a summary highlights the candidate’s qualifications and strengths.

Also Read: How to write a resume with no experience in 2023?

How To Write Resume Summary for Freshers?

When writing a freshers resume summary, it is essential to make a strong positive impression right off the bat.

Given below are some tips that you can follow to write a compelling freshers resume summary that is bound to get you shortlisted:

Identify and Include Industry-specific Keywords

Since 75% of recruiters use Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to filter resumes based on the number of keywords used in a resume, it is imperative to include keywords in your freshers resume summary along with the other sections.

Generally, keywords are specific skills that are the primary requirements of the role. You can identify these keywords by conducting research about the industry and role, and by analyzing the job description in the listing.

For instance, if the recruiters have mentioned time management skills as a requirement in the job listing, ensure to include the same in your freshers resume summary.

Also Read: How should you use keywords in your resume?

Tailor Your Freshers Resume Summary to the Job Description

While you might be tempted to apply to multiple job listings with the same resume, the chances of receiving an interview callback are slim.

The idea here is to customize your resume, including the resume summary to the job description provided in the specific listing.

Doing so will significantly increase your chances of getting shortlisted because your resume will highlight just the right skills and qualifications that are the main requirements of the recruiters.

Also Read: How to make a job specific resume?

Use Action Verbs

Action verbs like managed, led, tracked, organized, implemented, etc., not only emphasize your contributions and skills but also make your resume dynamic.

It demonstrates your ability to take initiative, use your skills in practicality, and produce results.

Also Read: What is the correct way to use action words on a resume?

Quantify Your Accomplishments

Instead of providing a vague description of your accomplishments, awards, and academic achievements, ensure to use numbers to describe the same in your freshers resume summary.

For instance, if you managed to win a competition or score the highest marks in the class, consider writing the number of participants or partaking students in the class.

Doing so provides a clear picture of your potential and makes a greater impact on the recruiters.

Also Read: How to make an AI-resume?

Keep It Concise and Crisp

If your freshers resume summary goes on for 4-5 lines, the likelihood of recruiters reading it will be zero.

The entire point of a summary is to provide a brief and crisp overview of your capabilities and what you bring to the table.

Therefore, you must ensure that your freshers resume summary doesn’t exceed 2-3 lines and communicates the best of your skills and qualifications in a crisp manner.

Also Read: How to make a stellar fresher resume?

Save It for the Last

Although the summary section is located at the top part of the resume, it is advisable to write it only after writing all the other sections of your freshers resume like internship, educational background, certifications, awards and honors, and skills.

Following this approach will give you a better understanding of what you must summarize and highlight in your freshers resume summary.

After all, the summary has to be relevant to the contents of your fresher's resume.

Also Read: How to write a resume objective?

Once you’ve drafted your freshers resume summary, ensure to proofread it to avoid any spelling mistakes, typos, and grammatical errors.

The last thing you’d want is to write an impressive resume summary only to lose a point for minor spelling or grammar mistakes.

You can also run it through apps like Grammarly after a manual scan.

Also Read: How to create a compelling internship resume as a fresher?

Examples of Resume Summary for Freshers

Given below are some role-specific resume summary samples for freshers that you can refer to create your own freshers resume summary:

Entry-level Customer Service Representative

Sample 1: Recent college graduate with excellent communication and problem-solving skills, armed with 6 months of internship experience in customer service. Achieved a 98% customer satisfaction rate as an intern by offering timely resolutions for customer queries. Proficient in keeping clients updated with new launches and providing comprehensive explanations of company products.

Sample 2: Enthusiastic and dedicated entry-level Customer Service Representative with excellent communication skills and a strong commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences. Proven ability to listen attentively, resolve issues with professionalism, and thrive in fast-paced environments. Eager to contribute to your team's success and provide outstanding service to customers.

Also Read: How to write a customer service resume in 2023?

Recent Graduate in Computer Science

Sample 1: Recent computer science graduate with strong programming skills in languages such as Java and Python, and experience in software development through internships and group projects. Adept at designing security awareness programs and operating systems and achieved a grade point average of 3.8 in computer science courses.

Also Read: What are some best practices for creating a computer science student resume?

Internship in Marketing

Sample 1: Marketing student with experience in market research, social media management, and event planning through internships and coursework. Successfully increased website traffic by 20% through social media campaigns in a previous internship role. Adept at campaign optimization and budgeting.

Sample 2: Energetic and creative marketing student with a strong foundation in digital marketing strategies, content creation, and market research. Proven ability to work collaboratively in fast-paced environments, analyze data to drive marketing decisions, and develop innovative marketing campaigns. Seeking an internship opportunity to apply my knowledge, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to the success of a dynamic marketing team.

Also Read: How can you create a resume as a college student for internships?

IT Support Resume Summary for Freshers

Sample 1: Recent graduate with certification in Comp TIA A+ with rich knowledge in troubleshooting and resolving technical hardware & software issues. Proficient in Windows and Linux operating systems for network troubleshooting and security purposes.

Sample 2: Aspiring IT professional with a passion for technology and a recent graduate with a degree in [Your Relevant IT Degree]. Strong foundation in computer hardware, software troubleshooting, and excellent problem-solving skills. Eager to kick-start my career in IT Support, offering a quick learning ability, dedication to customer satisfaction, and a commitment to resolving technical issues efficiently.

Also Read: How to draft a stellar IT intern resume in 2023?

Summary for Resume for Freshers Software Engineer

Sample 1: Aspiring software engineer with 6 months of internship experience in developing and maintaining software applications. Proficient in languages such as C++ and Java, with experience in assisting seniors with Agile development methodologies. Highly skilled in conducting useability tests and developing test automation solutions.

Sample 2: Recent graduate with a degree in Computer Science and a strong passion for software development. Proficient in programming languages such as Java, Python, and C++, with a solid understanding of data structures and algorithms. Highly motivated, quick learner, and eager to contribute to innovative software projects while continuously expanding my technical skills.

Resume Summary for Mechanical Engineering Freshers

Sample 1: Recent mechanical engineering graduate with experience in design and prototyping through 3 months of internships and coursework. Proficient in SolidWorks and AutoCAD, and experience in 3D printing and rapid prototyping.

Sample 2: Recent Mechanical Engineering graduate with a strong foundation in mechanical design, thermodynamics, and materials science. Adept at utilizing CAD software and conducting engineering analyses to develop innovative solutions to real-world problems. Highly motivated, detail-oriented, and committed to applying my knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to a dynamic engineering team, while continuously expanding my expertise in the field of mechanical engineering.

Also Read: What are some useful tips for creating an entry-level mechanical engineering resume?

Key Points from the Blog

• The difference between the two is that a resume objective states the candidate’s career goals and aspirations while a summary as stated earlier, highlights the candidate’s qualifications and strengths .
• Including keywords , using action verbs, quantifying achievements , and tailoring your freshers resume summary to the job description are some of the best practices for writing a strong resume summary.
• Consider writing your freshers resume summary after writing other resume sections to have a better understanding of what you need to summarize. Ensure to proofread before saving the final draft.

To create job-winning resumes within minutes, use Hiration’s ChatGPT-powered Resume Builder that offers 24x7 chat support.

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6 tips to level up your resume as a fresher

F reshers won’t have any work experience to show, but they can still capture the attention of recruiters by showcasing their skills and expertise in certain ways.

Experts say freshers should take special care to highlight their achievements and skills as they won’t have a body of work or experience to speak for them. Agrawal, founder and CEO of Internshala, an internship and online training platform, says there are some effective ways in which freshers can smartly plan their resumes to successfully land their first job.

1) Tailor your resume to each job and organisation In today’s competitive world, standing out among your peers while applying for a job is crucial. One important step to take is to understand the job requirements well and do a thorough research about the organisation concerned. This would help you create a customised resume for each job opportunity you are applying to. This also goes a long way in showing the recruiter your keenness in joining the organisation.

2) Highlight relevant skills in your application As an extension to customising your resume, it is quintessential that you showcase both your soft skills and relevant hard skills/job-specific skills. While hard skills are highly necessary for each job, soft skills are equally important. Oftentimes, most applicants for a job would have a similar set of hard skills. In such cases, your soft skills can make you stand out.

In fact, in today’s time of AI penetration across industries, employers are putting a greater emphasis on a candidate’s soft skills while evaluating them for a job. Fresh graduates must work especially hard on building such skills.

Here are some of the key soft skills employers are looking for in the post-pandemic world:

(a) Ownership Skills: Having high ownership skills is crucial for interns/entry-level applicants to take responsibility, stay motivated and complete their work efficiently

(b) Tech Savviness: Working remotely relies heavily on technology for internal communication, client outreach, project collaboration, virtual meetings and more. Being tech-savvy is a key attribute for professionals adapting to this digital work environment

(c) Agility: The dynamic nature of recent times, particularly influenced by events like the pandemic, underscores the importance of agility. Professionals need to be adaptable to changing circumstances, such as the shift from office to remote work, and the ease of this transition often depends on their agility

(d) Communication Skills: Effective verbal as well as written communication is crucial for remote work as it is conducted through emails, video conferencing and phone calls. Clear and polite communication is especially of utmost importance in a virtual setting where conveying ideas and inputs may pose a challenge

(e) Time Management: With distractions prevalent in a home-based work environment, interns need strong time management skills. This includes completing tasks promptly, attending meetings punctually, and respecting both their own and others’ time

(f) Creativity: Virtual work often demands creative thinking for adaptation. Interns may need to creatively use virtual means such as emails and phone calls to implement their client outreach strategies

3) Emphasise on internship experiences and relevant projects Even while hiring for entry-level positions, recruiters are often looking for some practical exposure and work experience in a candidate’s application. So internship experience and projects play a critical role in presenting your candidature for a job opportunity.

Internships and relevant real-world projects have the potential to validate your skill sets. It shows that you have professional exposure and hands-on experience, and gives the recruiters confidence in your competency for the said job.

4) Demonstrate quantifiable achievements While adding an internship experience or an academic project to your application, make sure to highlight the responsibilities you have held and the impact you were able to make while working on the same. Wherever applicable, make use of numbers to quantify your achievements during these stints. Mentioning quantifiable achievements is a concrete and measurable way to showcase the impact you made through the projects and during internships. For instance, if you did a blogging internship, you could mention the number of blogs written and the amount of traffic generated on the blog through your contribution. Similarly, if interned in the sales field, you could mention the number of sales made during a specific time period.

5) Showcase your zeal for continuous learning Change and growth are continuous today due to the rapid technological advancements. In order to survive and thrive in the dynamic professional world, you must be enthusiastic to inculcate the habit of continuous and lifelong learning. Recruiters understand this and are always on the lookout for candidates who are committed to staying current in their fields. Here, highlighting your enthusiasm to learn the latest technologies and work practices could certainly give you an edge over your competitors. To do so, you can mention any certifications you have done, or workshops attended to stay up to date with the latest advancements in your field.

6) Build a professional online presence Having a professional online presence would include keeping your LinkedIn profile up-to-date and aligned with your resume. LinkedIn profiles have become a go-to step for many recruiters while they are initially evaluating a candidate for a job role at their organisation. Make sure that you have added all your relevant projects, internship experiences, academic achievements, certifications, and skills on your LinkedIn profile along with a compelling summary talking about your professional aspirations and objectives.

In addition to LinkedIn, other online platforms for specific job roles need to stay updated. For instance, while hiring for a graphic designer role, employers would be interested in taking a look at your Behance (social media platform owned by Adobe) profile. Similarly, for a programming role, they would be keen on seeing an updated GitHub (code hosting platform for collaboration and version control) profile.

For more news like this visit The Economic Times .

Watch CBS News

Just graduated from college? Follow these job-hunting tips from a career expert.

By Megan Cerullo

Edited By Alain Sherter

Updated on: May 30, 2024 / 5:28 PM EDT / CBS News

Most of the 4 million students who are graduating from college in the U.S. this year will face a challenging labor market as they search for their first jobs.

On the bright side, 32% of all the job openings posted on LinkedIn are for entry-level positions, meaning suitable for candidates with little or no work experience. For young job seekers, meanwhile, the mission will be to stand out from the crowd both on paper and in job interviews. 

"The first thing is have an open mind. The job market is going to be a little bit tough. So what you may have thought your career path was going to be right out the gate may change," LinkedIn career expert Catherine Fisher told CBS News.

That means freshly minted grads should consider positions in a variety of fields and geographic locations, she noted. Another top tip Fisher offered is one that applies no matter the market conditions. 

"You also want to really work on that network," she said. "Network should be your full-time job until you get a job. But never give up on networking, even when you get that job."

While graduates who are just beginning their careers may not have many professional contacts, reaching out to professors, coaches and even classmates is a good way to get started. 

More generally, when it comes to entering the working world, grads should get comfortable with the idea that they'll be doing many things for the first time, Fisher said. "You're going to have to write your first resumé, you're going to have your first interview, you're going to have so many firsts, it's going to be challenging. Get used to it."

Being open-minded and adopting what Fisher called a "growth mindset" can also go a long way in any job hunt. Your first job doesn't have to be a perfect fit; rather it could be a stepping stone to something better. 

Not surprisingly, employers are increasingly looking for candidates with artificial intelligence skills, or at the very least comfort level working with AI tools. 

"We hear it all the time," she said. 

Be flexible on location

By contrast, grads shouldn't necessarily pin their hopes on landing a job in New York City, San Francisco or other major cities. 

"Maybe you're going to end up in Arizona. Tucson is hiring a lot, so we're seeing lots of entry-level jobs there," Fisher said. She identified Gainesville and Tallahassee, both in Florida, as other hot spots for entry level jobs at large employers. 

As far as interviewing tips, Fisher advised focusing on your strengths, not your weaknesses. 

"A lot of these companies will give you the training, and your skills are probably transferrable. So make sure you're really playing up the skills that you have that they're looking for," Fisher said. 

And practice, practice, practice. 

"Be really creative in terms of that storytelling. Get your story down pat, practice with friends," Fisher said. "Think about how do you communicate that you're a great communicator."

Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News 24/7 to discuss her reporting.

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Election latest: Minister says he 'stands by' Rishi Sunak's Labour tax rise claim

The work and pensions secretary doubled down on the claim by Rishi Sunak that Labour's plans for the country will lead to a £2,000 rise in taxes for each family. Listen to the latest daily edition of the Politics at Jack and Sam's podcast as you scroll.

Thursday 6 June 2024 08:48, UK

• General Election 2024

Election news

• Minister doubles down on Sunak's claims about Labour's tax plans
• Starmer accuses PM of lying | Watchdog 'looking into' tax claim
• Tories accept further donation from businessman who was embroiled in Abbott race row
• Labour drops lawsuit against five former employees
• Politics at Jack and Sam's: The Day... Big election choices must be made
• Battle For No 10: PM and Starmer taking part in Sky News special
• Live reporting by Katie Williams

Expert analysis

• Adam Boulton: Starmer's been given licence to say 'liar'
• Sophy Ridge: No party's being honest about challenges to come
• Ed Conway : The £13,000 omission in PM's tax warning

Election essentials

• Have your say: Be in the audience for our election leaders event
• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
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• Follow Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | How to register to vote | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Your essential guide to election lingo | Sky's election night plans

Shadow defence secretary John Healey says he is "disappointed" that blocked Labour candidate Faiza Shaheen has decided to stand as an independent.

Ms Shaheen, who initially won the Labour nomination for Chingford and Woodford Green, said she felt "disenfranchised" by the decision to remove her as a candidate, and accused the party of embodying a "hierarchy of racism" .

Mr Healey said he understands why she is "disappointed" but added that she went through "the process that all of us as candidates for Labour have had to go through". 

"I'm disappointed she's standing as an independent and one of the really big changes that Keir Starmer has brought in... is to make sure that any allegations are treated through an independent process. 

"Any suggestion that there are partial treatments for some people is entirely wrong."

Back to our interview with John Healey now, who has been questioned by Sky's Kay Burley on whether he is trying to "catch out" the public by saying taxes will not be hiked for "working people".

The shadow defence secretary said those facing higher prices are "the people who are working hard and struggle to make ends meet".

Pressed further on the matter, and whether Labour will target unearned income surcharges such as dividends, Mr Healey said "none of our plans require us to raise extra taxes beyond the ones we've already said".

However he added that Labour would have to assess "the true state of the public finances is when we get to open the books".

The Conservatives have accepted another donation from Frank Hester, who made headlines earlier this when comments he made about Labour's Diane Abbott emerged.

The latest data from the Electoral Commission shows he has donated a further £5m to the Tories.

This is on top of the £10m Mr Hester donated last year.

Mr Hester said in 2019 that Ms Abbott made him want to "hate all black women and that she "should be shot".

The comments were reported on by The Guardian back in March.

A spokesperson for the entrepreneur released a statement at the time saying: "Frank Hester accepts that he was rude about Diane Abbott in a private meeting several years ago but his criticism had nothing to do with her gender nor colour of skin.

"The Guardian is right when it quotes Frank saying he abhors racism, not least because he experienced it as the child of Irish immigrants in the 1970s."

They added that Mr Hester rang Ms Abbott to "try to apologise directly for the hurt he has caused her, and is deeply sorry for his remarks".

"He wishes to make it clear that he regards racism as a poison which has no place in public life."

You can read more background to this story here:

 We've also heard this morning from Labour's shadow defence secretary John Healey , who has declined to say whether the party will take action against Rishi Sunak and the Conservatives over claims about Labour's tax plans.

He echoed the view of Sir Keir Starmer that the claim of a £2,000 tax increase per family was "a lie", and said the prime minister is getting "more desperate" as the election campaign rolls on.

But asked if Labour will take any action after Sir Keir's claim that Mr Sunak broke the ministerial code, Mr Healey said: "That'll be for the statistics authority to pursue for now."

"But we're really clear that... the trust in British government is broken, it needs to be earned again," he adds, saying that Labour has been "so careful" to explain how it will fund its plans for the country.

"We have seen too much of gimmicks that make no difference to people's lives and broken promises," he says.

Mr Healey says Labour "will not be raising taxes on working people".

Sky News' deputy political editor Sam Coates and Politico's Jack Blanchard provide you with their guide to the election day ahead.

This is day 15 of the campaign. Jack and Sam discuss the Conservatives on tax and if they have their figures on Labour right, the latest on new likely manifesto pledges, and what next for Welsh First Minister Vaughan Gething after losing yesterday's vote of no confidence.

 Email Jack and Sam: [email protected]

 👉 Tap here to follow Politics at Jack at Sam's wherever you get your podcasts 👈 

Back to our interview with Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride now, who says he will "fight for every single vote" after a recent poll suggested he was among several cabinet ministers who could lose his seat in the election.

Asked how worried he is, Mr Stride says he has had "majorities with anything from about 10 to 21,500".

"In every single election... I fight for every single vote. I have great pride in the fact that I've stood up for my constituents over many years on many, many issues. 

"I hope that will be reflected in the result," he says.

Asked by Sky's Kay Burley what job he would do if he lost his seat, Mr Stride says he won't speculate.

Labour is dropping its lawsuit against five former employees whom it had accused of leaking a controversial report into how antisemitism complaints were handled under the leadership of Jeremy Corbyn.

The former staff members - including Mr Corbyn's former chief of staff Karie Murphy and his former director of communications Seumas Milne - denied the claims and previously said they would "vigorously defend themselves" in court.

A statement from their lawyers Carter-Ruck said: "The party is discontinuing its legal claims against Karie Murphy, Seumas Milne, Georgie Robertson, Harry Hayball and Laura Murray on a 'no order as to costs' basis.

"The five welcome the resolution of the claims."

The Work and Pensions Secretary is presented with analysis by our economics and data editor Ed Conway , who found that each household has experienced £13,000 in extra taxes under the Conservative government since 2019.

You can read that analysis in full here .

Mel Stride, in response, calls it a "number out of context that I haven't had a chance to properly look at".

He says the country has been through "two once-in-a-generation" external events with COVID and the Ukraine war.

"We supported the economy, if you go back to COVID, through furlough, millions of jobs, all that unemployment, that never happened because Rishi Sunak did the right thing," he says.

"We have seen some tax increases, but the trajectory now is downward," he adds.

 Mel Stride has described Sir Keir Starmer's claim that Rishi Sunak broke the ministerial code by "lying" about Labour's tax plans as "utterly wrong".

He insists the £2,000 claim was in fact a "relatively conservative estimate".

The Work and Pensions Secretary says costing opposition policies is a feature of general elections "going back decades".

" Alistair Darling, then-Labour chancellor in 2010, carried out a very similar exercise. 

"What is driving the animus of Keir Starmer and his colleagues is they know there were questions to be answered," he says.

We've just been hearing from Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride , who has doubled down on Rishi Sunak's claim that Labour's plans for the country would lead to a tax rise equivalent of £2,000 per family.

Asked by Sky's Kay Burley whether he stands by the figure despite the UK's statistics watchdog revealing its is "looking into" the claim, Mr Stride says: "The UK Statistics Authority has a role which involves looking at all sorts of statistics and coming to conclusions."

Pressed on whether that means he backs the figure, he says: "I stand by the numbers".

The prime minister's £2,000 claim was further called into question yesterday by a note from the Treasury's chief civil servant, which said the Conservative assessment "should not be presented as having been produced by the civil service".

Questioned on this, Mr Stride says that though the Tories never said the Treasury had signed off on it, a "substantial majority" of items in its opposition policy costings report "are actually a result of Treasury analysis".

"The report itself is very clear on all of this, absolutely crystal clear as to where the evidence is for each finding," he says.

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