How To Write a CV With No Experience

I recently spoke with Jane, a recent graduate. Jane is finding it difficult to get a job since she has no experience, especially in this Kenyan job market.

“I graduated over one year ago, and I have been actively applying for jobs but got nothing, not even an invitation for an interview. I have no skills and no job experience. This has really pushed me into a state of frustration. Having a first-class honour, I thought I would find it easy to land a job, but I lack one thing: experience! How am I going to convince the employers that I am fit for the role that I am applying for? What was I not doing right with my CV?” Jane lamented.

The truth is, writing a CV can be quite nerve-wracking, whether you have work experience or not. However, even without job experience, you have valuable skills that employers are looking for.

To help Jane understand how to write a CV with no experience, here are some of the tips I shared:

1. Have a Strong Personal Statement

A personal statement is a summary of who you are. It explains what makes you the best candidate for the position, shows what you can offer the employer regardless of your lack of experience, and demonstrates what makes you different from other candidates.

This will attract the recruiter and grab their attention from the outset.

Here is an example:

“I am an enthusiastic and committed individual with knowledge of designing websites and creating databases. I have strong technical skills, as well as excellent interpersonal skills. I am eager to be challenged in order to grow and expand on the skillset.”

2. Emphasize more on Education Section

As Jane mentioned, having a first-class honours degree is a significant accomplishment.  Having a CV with no experience, your CV should prominently showcase your educational background. Include relevant coursework, research projects, and any academic accolades or honours received.

Highlighting your educational achievements demonstrates your commitment to learning and ability to acquire knowledge in your field.

3. Showcase Relevant Volunteer Work/Attachment and Internships:

Even without formal job experience, you may have engaged in volunteer work or completed attachments during your studies. Describe these experiences in detail, highlighting the skills you gained and the impact you made.

Employers value candidates who demonstrate initiative, dedication, and a willingness to contribute to their communities or organizations.

4. Customize for The Job You Want

Employers want candidates to understand the role they are applying for, and the more you can demonstrate this, the more your CV will stand out. Recruiters often use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan CVs. When writing a CV with no experience, use relevant keywords from the job description throughout your CV. Maintain a clear, easy-to-read format with concise bullet points and action verbs.

5. Proofread your CV

 Another key point to consider when writing a CV with no experience is to proofread your CV to avoid typos, misspellings, bad grammar or incorrect punctuation. Ensure that your CV is clean, professional with legible font and logically organize information. Utilize bullet points to highlight key achievements and skills, making it easier for employers to scan through your CV quickly.

Conclusion:

Crafting a compelling CV with no experience takes time and effort. The Kenyan job market is competitive, but with the right approach, you can stand out from the crowd. This article equips you with the tools to build a strong CV, but for those seeking an extra edge, consider our professional CV writing service.

Our professional CV writing service can help you craft a standout CV quickly and efficiently.  Reach out to our professional CV writers here for guidance.