Standing out from the crowd

Paige Milestone

Standing Out from the Crowd: How to Write Your First CV

As we settle into a new year and many students prepare to leave education in the summer, now is the perfect time to get your CV prepped and ready for the next stage of your life.

A CV’s job is to open the door. It needs to be clear, concise, and show an employer why they should invite you to an interview.

Writing your first CV can feel intimidating — especially if you think you “don’t have enough experience”. The truth is, a good CV isn’t about having lots of jobs, it’s about showing your potential.

So, what makes a good CV?

A good CV clearly shows that you have the skills, background and attitude that employers are looking for.

Key things to include:

1. Start with a strong personal statement – describe your key strengths and skill set, as well as what you are looking for in a future role.

2. Education - include clear dates, the schools you attended, and the grades you achieved. This helps employers understand your background quickly.

3. Work Experience - most employers will look for some form of experience, whether that’s in retail, hospitality, or another sector. This shows that you can communicate well with others, manage your time effectively and take responsibility.

4. Volunteering - if you’re not currently working while you study, volunteering can demonstrate many of the same skills and qualities employers’ value.

5. Hobbies and Interests - these can be a great icebreaker and help an employer find common ground with you.

6. Overall Presentation - make sure the formatting is consistent, with no spelling or grammatical errors. Ask a friend, family member, or teacher to review it; a second set of eyes always helps.

7. Keep it simple and easy to read - don’t stress too much about page count, as long as the important information is there. Try to use concise bullet points rather than long paragraphs. Also avoid templates, pictures and boxes.

Remember your in competition with your classes mates, by following these tips, you’ll give your CV the best chance of standing out from the crowd.

Author: Paige Milestone

A passion for helping others. In her free time, she enjoys visiting destinations on her travel bucket list, often with a prosecco in hand.