How To Write A Great CV With No Work Experience

By Audrey Korir

Are you struggling to write a CV with no work experience?

The job search process can feel like a futile battle when you have no work experience. How are you supposed to write a CV when you don’t have anything to write about? Well, you shouldn’t let that stop you.

If you are looking for answers on how to come up with a great CV with no experience then, read on;

1. Tailor your CV to match the job description

First things first, make sure your CV is tailored to the job you are applying for.  If you have a CV with no work experience, then the key is to focus on your skills, rather than the experience you don’t have. Read through the job description and pull out all of the relevant skills and qualifications the employer is looking for. This could include things like attention to detail or great time management skills.

2. Make the most of your personal statement

Your personal statement is the first thing the employer will read on your CV, so it needs to be engaging.  Spend time writing three to five lines about yourself, your skills and what makes you the perfect candidate for the role. Keep it short and concise.

QUICK READ>>> How Do I Tailor My CV To Match A Job Description?

3. Use the right keywords

Highlight keywords and specific skills listed in the job description and incorporate them in your CV.

For example, if the job description asks for “excellent writing skills” and “can work under strict deadlines” then that should come out clearly in your CV.

Rebecca Nyawira, a CV Writing Expert from Corporate Staffing says that a lot of employers look out for these keywords and phrases to hasten the screening process.

“Your CV is a professional document that should market you. Therefore, you should organize it in a way that a recruiter can quickly pinpoint aspects of you as a professional that make you suitable for the job description”, she adds.

4. Add a cover letter

There isn’t always room on a CV to go into detail about why you are the best candidate for the job, and this can be problematic if you are lacking in work experience. Submitting a cover letter alongside your CV is a great way to do this. It is a chance to showcase your personality and highlight the relevant skills you possess that will help you succeed in the specific role

5. Think outside the job

Treat your extra-curricular activities like jobs. Spend time mentally sifting through the last 5 0r 6 years and think about the times you may have volunteered at a company or conducted charity work – anything relevant that will look good on your  CV.

6. Show your personality

It counts for more than you may think. If you can show your personality and your enthusiasm for a role in your CV, you’re already in a stronger position than most candidates. You may not have the exact experience the employer is looking for, but if you can create a CV that stands out and oozes personality, you just might get that phone call you’ve been waiting for.

Conclusively,

When it comes to your CV, it’s important to think outside your work history and look at the potential skills, experience and personal traits that may be desirable to an employer for a particular role.

Is your CV Letting You Down?

Get Professional Help Here

ALSO READ>>> CV Writing Tips: How To Write A Career Objective