Last Updated on November 20, 2024 by Chukwuemeka Maduka

• Are you feeling stuck because you don’t have formal work experience in tech?
• Do you wonder if your self-taught skills or bootcamp projects are enough to impress recruiters?
• Have you applied to countless jobs but worry your resume isn’t even being seen?
• Are you unsure how to format or tailor your resume for a tech role?

If you nodded to any of these, then, this article is for you!

Breaking into tech without prior experience can feel like an uphill battle, but here’s the truth: you don’t need years of experience to craft a standout resume.

In fact, studies show that nearly 70% of recruiters prioritize skills and project work over traditional job experience for entry-level tech roles.

With the demand for tech talent rising—IT jobs are projected to grow by 15% by 2030 and companies are eager to hire candidates who demonstrate potential, adaptability, and a passion for learning.

All you need is the right strategy to frame your skills, showcase your projects, and tailor your resume to resonate with recruiters.

In this blog post on LearnWithPride, we’ll guide you through 10 actionable steps to create an impactful tech resume with no experience.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a recent graduate, a career switcher, or a self-taught coder, these tips will help you stand out and land interviews.

The Reality of Tech Job Hunting in 2024

Let’s start with some good news: The tech industry needs fresh talent.

The bad news?

The entry barrier can seem impossibly high.

Job postings asking for “3-5 years of experience” for entry-level positions have become a running joke in the tech community.

But here’s what we’ve learned after helping countless clients break into tech:

• Many “required experience” listings are wish lists, not hard requirements
• Companies are increasingly valuing potential over experience
• Self-taught skills and personal projects can substitute for traditional experience
• The key is knowing how to present what you already have

Some Statistics on Tech Resumes

These statistics underscore the importance of crafting an effective tech resume tailored specifically for each application!

What Recruiters Actually Want

Through our conversations with tech recruiters, we’ve discovered they’re looking for three main things in entry-level candidates:

1. Proof of technical capability (even if self-taught)
2. Learning potential and adaptability
3. Problem-solving mindset and enthusiasm for technology

Before You Start Writing Your Tech Resume

Understanding Tech Resumes vs. Traditional Resumes

A tech resume differs from traditional resumes in several key ways:

• Skills-first approach: Technical skills often come before work experience
• Project emphasis: Personal projects can carry as much weight as work experience
• Technical detail: Specific technologies and methodologies need to be highlighted
• Proof of work: Links to GitHub, portfolios, and live projects are expected

Think Like a Tech Recruiter

Before writing your resume, put yourself in the recruiter’s shoes. They’re looking at dozens, maybe hundreds of resumes daily. Your resume needs to answer these questions in seconds:

• Can this person code/design/analyze data?
• Do they have a foundation in relevant technologies?
• Have they built anything real?
• Are they passionate about learning and growing?

Then Gather Your Technical Achievements

You likely have more relevant experience than you think. Let’s inventory your technical background:

✓ School projects
✓ Personal coding projects
✓ Online course completion certificates
✓ Hackathon participation
✓ Github contributions
✓ Tech-related volunteer work
✓ Relevant coursework
✓ Online portfolio
✓ Technical blog posts
✓ Open source contributions

How To Make Your Tech Resume Stand Out Without Work Experience

First, Craft a Strong Header

Your resume header is the first thing recruiters will see, so make it count! Include:

• Your full name
• Phone number
• Professional email address
• Links to your LinkedIn profile and GitHub (or personal portfolio)

A strong header sets the tone for your entire resume and ensures potential employers can easily contact you.

Then Write a Compelling Summary

A professional summary is your opportunity to make a great first impression. In just two to three sentences, summarize your skills and career aspirations.

For instance:
“Enthusiastic software developer with a solid foundation in Python and JavaScript. Eager to leverage coding skills in real-world applications while contributing to innovative projects.”

This summary gives hiring managers insight into who you are and what you aim to achieve in the tech industry.

Your Digital Footprint Matters

In tech, your online presence is often more important than traditional work experience. Here’s what you need:

GitHub Profile

• Clean, organized repositories
• Regular contributions
• README files that explain your projects
• Code that demonstrates best practices

LinkedIn Profile

• Professional photo
• Technical skills listed
• Project showcases
• Connections in your target industry

Personal Website/Portfolio

• Clean, professional design
• Project showcases with live demos
• Technical blog (if possible)
• About page highlighting your journey

The Technical Skills Section: Your New Best Friend

This section becomes your resume’s cornerstone when you lack experience. Organize it effectively:

Programming Languages

• List by proficiency level
• Include only languages you can actually use
• Add specific versions if relevant

Example:

Programming Languages:
* Proficient: Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS
* Intermediate: Java, SQL
* Basic: C++, Ruby

Frameworks & Tools

• Focus on in-demand technologies
• Include version control systems
• List relevant development tools

Example:

Frameworks & Tools:
* Web: React.js, Node.js, Express
* Database: MongoDB, PostgreSQL
* Tools: Git, VS Code, Docker

Projects: Your Experience Substitute

Projects become your “work experience” when you’re just starting. Here’s how to present them:

Project Entry Template:

[Project Name] - [Technologies Used]
* Brief description of purpose and functionality
* Your role and responsibilities
* Quantifiable results or improvements
* Link to live demo/GitHub

Example:

E-commerce Platform - React, Node.js, MongoDB
* Developed a fully functional e-commerce platform with user authentication
* Implemented shopping cart functionality and payment processing
* Reduced page load time by 40% through code optimization
* Live demo: [URL] | GitHub: [URL]

10 Steps to Write a Tech Resume with No Experience

How can I create an outstanding tech resume when I have no experience?

Here’s your answer in 10 steps!

The 10 steps to writing a tech resume with no experience:

1. Start with an ATS-friendly format.
2. Write a professional summary that reflects your aspirations.
3. Showcase your technical skills prominently.
4. Highlight personal projects and internships.
5. Leverage your education and certifications.
6. Include transferable skills from non-tech experiences.
7. Add extracurricular activities and volunteer work.
8. Use action verbs to describe accomplishments.
9. Quantify your achievements wherever possible.
10. Avoid common resume mistakes and tailor it for every job.

Let’s break these steps down further so you can create a tech resume that stands out, even with no experience!

1. Choose an ATS-Friendly Format

When writing a tech resume, especially with no experience, using an ATS-friendly format is highly recommended.

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes for keywords and relevance.

If your resume isn’t formatted correctly, it might not even reach the recruiter!

Tips for an ATS-Friendly Resume:

• Stick to clean, simple layouts without graphics.
• Use clear section headings like Technical Skills and Projects.
• Save your resume as a PDF or Word document to maintain formatting.
• Include keywords like JavaScript, Python, or problem-solving from the job description.

A well-structured format ensures your tech resume is easy to read for both ATS and human recruiters.

2. Write a Professional Summary That Reflects Your Aspirations

A professional summary is your elevator pitch. Even with no experience, this section can convey your passion, skills, and what you bring to the table.

Example:

“Aspiring software developer with a strong foundation in Python, JavaScript, and web development. Proficient in creating responsive websites and eager to apply problem-solving skills to real-world challenges.”

Recruiters spend less than 10 seconds scanning resumes, so make this count.

Your professional summary should be tailored to the role, using keywords like “how to write a tech resume” and “tech resume with no experience.”

3. Showcase Your Technical Skills Prominently

The technical skills section is one of the most critical parts of a tech resume.

Recruiters want to see if you have the tools and abilities to succeed in the role, even if you lack formal work experience.

Skills to Include Depending On Your Tech Career Path:

• Programming Languages: Python, JavaScript, SQL.
• Tools: Git, VS Code, Tableau.
• Frameworks: React, Django.

Organize this section clearly, separating skills into categories. This structure makes it easy for recruiters to assess your expertise quickly.

4. Highlight Personal Projects and Internships

Projects are the backbone of a tech resume especially when you’re starting out with no experience.

They showcase your ability to apply technical skills to real-world problems.

Example of a Project Description:

“Developed a weather app using React and OpenWeather API, achieving 95% uptime and user-friendly responsiveness across devices.”

Include:

• The technologies you used.
• The problem you solved.
• Quantifiable results.

Even if it’s a project you worked on during a bootcamp or a self-learning initiative, recruiters value demonstrated skills over job titles.

5. Leverage Your Education and Certifications

Even if you don’t have a degree in computer science, your education can bolster your tech resume.

So, highlight relevant coursework, online certifications, or bootcamps.

Examples of Certifications:

1. LearnWithPride Certificates (ACTD and CPD Accredited)
2. Google IT Support Professional Certificate
3. Coursera’s “Python for Everybody”
4. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

These certifications signal that you’re committed to learning and growing—a valuable trait for any candidate.

6. Include Transferable Skills from Non-Tech Experiences

Your previous roles, even outside tech, likely gave you transferable skills like communication, teamwork, or problem-solving.

Example:

“Managed inventory systems in a retail role, improving efficiency by 20% through streamlined processes.”

Recruiters look for candidates who can bring a mix of soft skills and technical expertise to the table.

So, use your past roles to illustrate your readiness for the tech world.

7. Add Extracurricular Activities and Volunteer Work

Volunteer work, hackathons, or coding clubs are great additions to a tech resume.

They demonstrate initiative, teamwork, and technical interest.

Example:

“Participated in Code for Purpose hackathon by LearnWithPride, building a web app to streamline food bank donations.”

These activities reflect your proactive approach and commitment to tech, even outside traditional work settings.

8. Use Action Verbs to Describe Accomplishments

Powerful action verbs like developed, optimized, and designed make your resume engaging and professional.

These verbs not only enhance readability but also create a strong impression of your contributions and achievements.

Example:
Instead of: “Worked on a project to build a website,” ❌
Write: “Designed and launched a responsive e-commerce website, reducing page load time by 30%.” ✅

Using specific, measurable achievements like this elevates your tech resume and helps it stand out, even when you have limited formal experience.

List of 10 More Action Verbs to Make Your Resume Stand Out in 2025:

1. Engineered – Ideal for emphasizing technical and problem-solving skills.
2. Implemented – Highlights the successful application of a solution or tool.
3. Integrated – Perfect for showcasing experience in combining systems or technologies.
4. Executed – Great for demonstrating completion of tasks or projects effectively.
5. Streamlined – Suggests improving efficiency or reducing unnecessary steps.
6. Architected – Implies high-level design and planning of systems or structures.
7. Debugged – Excellent for roles focusing on troubleshooting or solving technical issues.
8. Collaborated – Emphasizes teamwork and effective communication in a project.
9. Leveraged – Shows strategic use of tools, resources, or data.
10. Automated – Highlights innovation and proficiency with processes or systems.

Integrating these modern action verbs into your resume will showcase your accomplishments with clarity and precision, making your tech resume stand out whether you have prior experience or not.

9. Quantify Your Achievements Wherever Possible

Quantify Your Achievements to Stand Out

Let’s face it—recruiters love numbers.

They make your accomplishments feel real and measurable, even if your experience comes from school projects or volunteer gigs.

Adding metrics shows the actual impact of your work and makes your resume instantly more credible.

For example, instead of saying:
“Worked on improving a website.” ❌
Try this:
“Boosted website performance by 25% through optimized JavaScript code.” ✅

See the difference? The second one tells a story of results.

Here’s why quantifying matters:

• It grabs attention: Numbers pop off the page and make your achievements easy to understand.
• It builds trust: Data-backed accomplishments show you’re detail-oriented and results-driven.
• It shows impact: Recruiters want to know how your work made a difference, not just what you did.

Even if you’re just starting out, you can find ways to add metrics.

Think about project outcomes, efficiency improvements, or goals you’ve achieved. This small tweak can make your tech resume shine brighter than most.

10. Avoid Common Resume Mistakes and Tailor for Every Job

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overloading your resume with irrelevant information.
• Using buzzwords without context.
• Failing to tailor your resume for specific roles.

Let’s be real—your resume is your first impression, and you don’t want to mess it up.

But many people make simple mistakes that could cost them an interview. For instance:

• Adding irrelevant details: Nobody wants to read about your high school art club if it has nothing to do with the job. Stick to what’s relevant to the role.
• Throwing in buzzwords without meaning: Saying you’re “dynamic” or “goal-oriented” without showing how is just empty talk. Back up claims with real examples—like a project you led or results you achieved.
• Sending the same resume to every job: Recruiters can spot a generic resume from a mile away. If you don’t tailor it, you’re missing the chance to stand out.

Now, let’s talk about how to fix this.

Tailoring your resume for each job may feel like extra work, but it’s totally worth it.

Here’s what to do:

• Read the job description carefully: Pull out the key skills and responsibilities they’re asking for, and make sure your resume reflects them.
• Rewrite your summary: Use this section to quickly show how your skills match the role. Think of it as your elevator pitch.
• Highlight the right projects: If they’re looking for someone who knows JavaScript, put your web development project front and center.
• Tweak your technical skills: List the tools and technologies they’re after, but only if you’ve actually worked with them.

Customizing your resume shows effort, and recruiters appreciate that. Plus, it makes you look like the perfect fit for the role—and that’s exactly the goal.

Conclusion

Writing a tech resume with no experience may seem daunting at first, but by following the steps listed in this blog post like;

• highlighting relevant skills,
• showcasing projects, and
• tailoring each application

You can create an impressive document that captures recruiters’ attention.

Remember to keep refining your resume as you gain new experiences and skills because it’s an evolving tool in your job search arsenal.

If you’re ready to start building your tech resume today or have questions about specific sections, feel free to reach out!

The journey may be challenging, but with persistence and the right approach on how to write a tech resume, you’ll be well on your way to landing that dream job in tech!

FAQs

1. How to write a resume for a tech job?

To write a resume for a tech job, start by tailoring it to the specific role you’re applying for. Highlight your technical skills, relevant projects, certifications, and education. Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and quantify them whenever possible. Don’t forget to include a professional summary at the top, showcasing your value to potential employers.

2. How do I write a tech resume with no experience?

If you have no experience, focus on transferable skills, technical courses, certifications, and personal projects. Create a dedicated section for technical skills and list tools, programming languages, or software you’ve learned. Include any volunteer work, internships, or academic projects that showcase your abilities. Be sure to use a skills-based or functional resume format to emphasize your potential.

3. What should be included in a tech CV?

A tech CV should include the following:

• Contact Information (name, email, phone, LinkedIn, GitHub)
• Professional Summary
• Technical Skills (programming languages, tools, and technologies)
• Projects or Portfolio (with links if applicable)
• Education and Certifications
• Work Experience (if any)
• Additional Sections (volunteer work, hackathons, or extracurricular activities relevant to tech)

4. What is the best format for a technical resume?

The best format for a technical resume is either the reverse-chronological or hybrid format. The reverse-chronological format works well if you have relevant work experience, while the hybrid format combines a strong skills section with detailed work or project experience. Always make sure the layout is clean and ATS-friendly.

5. How long should a tech resume be?

A tech resume should ideally be one page, especially for entry-level candidates or those with less experience. However, if you have extensive experience or multiple significant projects, a two-page resume may be acceptable.

6. What is the difference between a CV and a resume?

A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a detailed document that provides a comprehensive overview of your academic and professional history, often used for academic or research roles. A resume, on the other hand, is a concise, tailored document highlighting your skills and experience relevant to a specific job.

7. Should a tech resume have a summary?

Yes, a tech resume should include a professional summary. It acts as your elevator pitch, briefly outlining your key skills, experience, and career goals. This section helps recruiters quickly understand why you’re a strong fit for the role.

8. What to include in a tech resume?

Include the following in your tech resume:

• Your contact information
• A professional summary or objective
• Technical skills
• Work experience (or projects if you lack experience)
• Education and certifications
• Optional sections like volunteer work, hackathons, or personal achievements

9. What is a technical resume?

A technical resume is a document tailored specifically for roles in technology or IT fields. It focuses on technical skills, certifications, and projects, showcasing your ability to solve problems and build solutions using technology.

10. How to write a tech CV?

To write a tech CV:

• Start with your personal details at the top.
• Add a professional summary.
• List your technical skills prominently.
• Detail your work experience or relevant projects.
• Include your education and certifications.
• Add optional sections like awards, publications, or extracurricular activities.

11. What is a good tech summary for a resume?

A good tech summary is concise and highlights your key skills, accomplishments, and career goals. For example:
“Proactive software developer with expertise in Python, Java, and cloud technologies. Successfully designed and deployed scalable web applications, demonstrating a strong passion for problem-solving and innovation.”

12. How do you list tech skills on a CV?

List your tech skills in a dedicated section labeled “Technical Skills.” Group them into categories like:

• Programming Languages (e.g., Python, Java, C++)
• Tools and Technologies (e.g., AWS, Git, Docker)
• Frameworks (e.g., React, Django)

13. Should you put hobbies on a tech resume?

Including hobbies is optional but can be beneficial if they’re relevant to tech or showcase qualities like creativity and problem-solving. For example, mentioning that you build websites as a hobby or participate in coding competitions can add value.

14. What does a technical CV look like?

A technical CV typically features:

• A clean, professional design
• Clear sections for technical skills, projects, and certifications
• Quantified achievements and relevant keywords tailored to the job
• Links to portfolios or GitHub profiles

15. How to build a resume for IT jobs?

To build a resume for IT jobs:

• Start with a professional summary tailored to the role.
• List relevant technical skills, certifications, and experience.
• Emphasize your problem-solving capabilities through measurable achievements.
• Use a clean, ATS-friendly format and include links to your LinkedIn or GitHub profiles.