The Essentials of a New Grad Web Developer's Resume

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“Hello, young code wranglers, welcome to “The Essentials of a New Grad Web Developer’s Resume”. Let’s dive into the nuts and bolts of crafting a compelling resume that will reel in your dream job faster than you can say “JavaScript”.

The Business Card

Oof! Resume, right off the bat, sounds intimidating like “The Terminator” movie, but let’s start by calling it your “business card,” feels lighter, right? Now, think of your resume as an advertisement billboard where you sell your coding genius without feeling like hustling for Yelp reviews. Keep in mind that the goal of a resume is not to get you a job, but to land you an interview.

The Elevator Pitch

What is an elevator pitch? It’s a short statement that sums up your strengths, skills, and experience in a nutshell. It’s a quick, punchy statement that piques interest without sounding like a recital of the entire Harry Potter series. In essence, it convinces employers why they should pick you for an interview even if they only caught a glimpse of it while sipping their morning coffee.

Functional vs. Chronological

It’s a debate as old as the chicken egg conundrum but without the feathery mess. A functional resume focuses on skills rather than job history. It’s perfect for new grads, like yourself, who may not have much work experience but plenty of technical skills. A chronological resume, on the other hand, lists work history with the most recent job appearing first. If you’ve been busy like a bee during your coding bootcamp and have internships or related work experiences, then this is the format for you.

Lists Are Your Friends

For some reason, lists are incredibly satisfying. Maybe it’s that click of the pen when we check something off or typing strikethrough texts. Your resume could use some of that satisfaction. So, use bullet points to neatly present your skills and experience. Plus, scanning becomes a breeze for your recruiter.

Skills and Languages

Remember, you’re a new graduate. No one expects you to design and code the next Facebook, yet. Your potential employers want to see what coding languages you are proficient in. HTML, CSS, PHP, JavaScript, and WordPress should definitely shine bright on the skills section, much like the lights of a concert stage, get it?

Portfolio Section

This is where you get to strut your stuff. Not the funky chicken dance, but actual websites or projects you’ve worked on, even if it’s a ‘hello world’ page from your first day of coding bootcamp. Employers want to see proof of your skills, and there’s no better proof than a portfolio of your coding superhero adventures.

Keep it Concise

Brevity is the soul of wit, said Shakespeare while definitely not writing a resume for web developer job. But the man had a point. Keep your resume concise, clear, and focused. Aim for one to two pages max. It’s not a marathon for the most words, after all.

Humor aside, creating your first web developer resume can be a daunting task. But fear not! Like coding, it may seem overwhelming at first, but after a few attempts, you’ll get the hang of it and soon be on your way to scoring an awesome web developer job.”

FAQ

What should be included in a new grad web developer’s resume?

Answer-When creating a resume as a new grad web developer, you should include your education, relevant coursework, internships or work experience, technical skills (such as HTML, PHP, CSS, JavaScript), projects you have worked on, and any certifications you have obtained. Don’t forget to also highlight any volunteer work or extracurricular activities related to web development.

Should I include a portfolio in my resume?

Answer-Yes, including a link to your online portfolio is highly recommended. This allows potential employers to see examples of your work and assess your skills more effectively. Make sure the portfolio showcases a variety of projects that demonstrate your expertise and creativity.

How can I tailor my resume for specific job applications?

Answer-To tailor your resume for specific job applications, carefully read the job description and requirements, then emphasize the relevant skills and experiences that match those criteria. You can also adjust the language and keywords in your resume to align with the job posting.

Is it important to showcase soft skills on my resume?

Answer-Yes, it is essential to highlight soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management on your resume. Employers value these skills as they contribute to your overall effectiveness as a web developer and team player.

Can I include coding languages I’m still learning on my resume?

Answer-While it’s okay to list languages you are currently learning on your resume, it’s essential to be honest about your proficiency level. You can mention them under a separate section like “Skills in Progress” or “Technologies I’m Learning.” Be prepared to speak about your experiences and goals for further learning during interviews.

Should I include references on my resume?

Answer-It’s not necessary to include references on your resume unless explicitly requested by the employer. You can create a separate document with references that you can provide when needed. Focus on showcasing your skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate instead.

How can I make my resume stand out as a web developer?

Answer-To make your resume stand out as a web developer, ensure it is well-organized, visually appealing, and error-free. Use a clean layout, concise language, and relevant keywords. Highlight your unique projects, achievements, and contributions in a way that captures the attention of potential employers.

Should I include a cover letter with my resume?

Answer-Including a cover letter along with your resume is a good practice as it allows you to introduce yourself, explain your interests in the position, and highlight specific experiences or skills that align with the job requirements. A well-crafted cover letter can complement your resume and help you stand out.

How long should my resume be as a new grad web developer?

Answer-As a new grad web developer, your resume should ideally be one page in length. Focus on including the most relevant information, such as your education, skills, projects, and experiences, in a concise and organized manner. Keep it clean, easy to read, and tailored to the job you’re applying for.

Is it okay to use templates for my resume as a web developer?

Answer-Using templates for a resume can be helpful in ensuring a professional and polished look. However, make sure to customize the template to reflect your unique experiences and skills. Avoid overly generic templates and strive for a design that showcases your creativity and attention to detail.