No Experience Resume Template
For no work history at all — leads with education, skills and school activities.
See the resume →No Experience Cover Letter Template (Australia)
For school leavers and anyone writing a cover letter with no paid work, no volunteering and no placements.
Preview
Zoe Carter
04xx xxx xxx | zoe.carter@example.com | Prospect, SA
[Date]
The Hiring Manager
XXXX Store
Adelaide, SA
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to apply for the casual Customer Service Assistant position at XXXX Store. I have just finished Year 12 and, while this would be my first job, I am reliable, friendly and genuinely keen to learn, and I would welcome the chance to start my working life with your team.
Although I don't have paid work experience yet, I have built real skills at school. As captain of my basketball team I organised training and supported newer players, on the debating team I learned to think on my feet and communicate clearly, and as a peer tutor I helped younger students with their maths. These roles taught me teamwork, reliability and how to stay calm and positive under pressure. I am available for weekend and after-school shifts and am quick to pick up new tasks.
I would really appreciate the opportunity to show what I can bring to XXXX Store. My resume is attached, and I would be glad to come in for a trial shift or interview at a time that suits you. Thank you for considering my application.
Kind regards,
Zoe Carter
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Open the tool →How to Write a Resume With No Experience
Turn school, skills, volunteering and life experience into a strong resume — for students, career starters and returners.
Read the guide →First Job Checklist
For students and first-time job seekers — what to sort out, how to apply, and how to prepare for the interview.
Open the checklist →Frequently asked questions
How do I write a cover letter with no experience?
Keep it short and lead with your attitude: reliable, friendly and keen to learn. Use school activities such as sport, clubs or tutoring to show teamwork and reliability, mention your availability, and offer to come in for a trial shift or interview. Three short paragraphs is plenty.
What do I write in a cover letter if I've never had a job?
Name the role, say it would be your first job and that you're keen to start, then give one or two examples from school — a team you led, a club you were part of, or tutoring you did — to show teamwork, communication and reliability. Close by offering to come in for a trial or interview.
Should I mention that I have no experience?
You can say it would be your first job, but don't apologise for it or dwell on it. Frame it positively and put the focus on your attitude, your school activities and your willingness to learn, which is what employers hiring for entry-level roles are looking for.
This template is a free, general writing guide for Australian job seekers. JobCall provides communication templates only and is not career counselling, recruitment or legal advice. Please adapt the wording to your own circumstances.