Writing a CV can feel a little intimidating, especially when you’re just starting out. Thoughts of “Do I have enough experience?” or “What if I’m not good enough?” may cross your mind, but think of building your CV as writing your professional story. You should structure it to highlight your strengths, experiences, and ambitions.
Begin with your full name and contact information, including your phone number with area code, email address, and LinkedIn profile (click here for tips on how to create a standout profile). Note that your email address should sound professional, no ‘kitty’ this, ‘Barbie’ that or anything inappropriate. We recommend creating an email strictly for business correspondence. Using your name is a great start, such as JohnSmith@gmail.com or alternatively, if your name is a popular one, add numbers which have meaning to you, similarly to JohnSmith25@gmail.com.
Next, create a short personal statement that introduces who you are, what you’re aiming for professionally, and what makes you a strong candidate. Then, outline your educational background, listing institutions, qualifications, and dates attended, starting with the most recent. If you lack formal work experience, emphasise relevant coursework, volunteer work, leadership roles, or academic projects which demonstrate your skills. For your experience section, include internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer roles. Highlight the responsibilities you held and the skills you gained, especially those that are transferable across industries.
Finish with a skills section where you list abilities like software proficiency, communication skills, or languages spoken. You may also mention extracurricular activities, awards, and certifications. Keep your CV layout clean and readable, use bullet points where appropriate, and proofread carefully for spelling and grammar errors.
Always tailor your CV to each job you’re applying for, using language that mirrors the job posting. A well-written CV doesn’t just list your professional history, it shows that you’re ready for the next role in your career.
