No Experience? No Problem!

5 ways to make a CV or Resumes that gets results

As a school leaver, entering the workforce for the first time can be a daunting task. You may not have much work experience, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create a CV that will make you stand out. Here are five tips to help you create a winning CV as a school leaver:

1. Highlight any relevant coursework or education

According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 73% of employers prefer to hire candidates with relevant work experience. However, if you haven’t had a job yet, your education is still valuable and can show potential employers that you have the skills and knowledge they’re looking for. Be sure to include any relevant coursework, grades, and qualifications you’ve earned. This information can help demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in specific areas.

2. Include any volunteer experience

If you haven’t had a paid job, volunteer work can still demonstrate your work ethic and commitment. In fact, a study by LinkedIn found that 41% of hiring managers consider volunteer work as valuable as paid work experience. Include any volunteer experience you’ve had and the responsibilities you had. This can show that you have been actively involved in your community and that you have gained valuable skills that can be transferred to the workplace.

3. List any extracurricular activities or hobbies that are relevant to the job you’re applying for

Employers are not only interested in your formal education and work experience but also in the skills and qualities that you have developed through extracurricular activities and hobbies. For example, if you’re applying for a job in customer service, you could mention that you were part of your school’s debate team or that you volunteer at a local charity shop. These activities can show that you have transferable skills that employers are looking for, such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.

4. Be honest about your lack of experience and highlight your willingness to learn

Employers will understand that you may not have a lot of work experience, but they will appreciate that you are willing to learn and grow. In fact, a study by Accenture found that 63% of executives believe that the ability to learn new skills is more important than the skills candidates currently have. Be sure to mention your enthusiasm and willingness to learn in your CV. This can help demonstrate your eagerness to develop your skills and make a positive contribution to the company.

5. Use a professional CV or Resume format and be sure to proofread it

Even if you don’t have much experience, you can still make a great first impression with a well-written and well-formatted CV. Use a professional CV format and be sure to proofread it multiple times to avoid any errors. According to a study by CareerBuilder, 58% of hiring managers said they would automatically dismiss a candidate with typos in their CV. So, take the time to proofread your CV carefully before submitting it.

Keep in mind, it is important to tailor your CV to the specific job you are applying for and focus on the skills and qualifications that are required for the role. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Career counselors or mentors can help you create a CV that stands out and gives you the best chance of landing your first job.

Creating a CV as a school leaver can seem overwhelming, but by following these tips, you can create a CV that will make you stand out from the competition and get you one step closer to landing your first job.

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