A Guide To: Creating a Stand Out CV

Let’s talk CVs. Maybe you’re looking for a part-time job, an apprenticeship, or even starting to think about that first “real” job.

Whatever it is, you’re going to need a well put together CV. And let’s be honest, staring at a blank page can be pretty intimidating.

Think of your CV as your personal marketing brochure. You’re selling you. And just like any good ad, it needs to grab attention, be easy to read, and highlight your best features. So, let’s break down how to get this done.

Keep it clean and simple

First off, keep it clean and simple. You’re not writing a novel. One or two pages max, especially at this stage. Use a clear, professional font – think Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.

Forget the fancy scripts and wild colours. You want the recruiter, or potential employer, to focus on your content, not the visual distractions.

Personal profile or summary

Now, let’s talk about the sections. You’ll definitely want a personal profile or summary. This is your elevator pitch, your chance to shine in a few concise sentences. What are you passionate about? What skills do you bring to the table?

Don’t just list stuff; tell a story. For example, instead of “Good communication skills,” try “A proactive and enthusiastic student with proven communication skills, demonstrated through leading successful group projects.” See the difference? We’re using strong action verbs and showing, not just telling.

Education

Next up, education. This is crucial for you guys. Start with your most recent qualification, which is likely your college course. Include the name of the qualification, the college you attended, and the dates you attended.

You might also want to mention relevant modules or projects, especially if they align with the job you’re applying for. If you’ve got any academic achievements, like high grades or awards, definitely shout about them. This section is a key part of your CV.

Work experience

Now, work experience. Even if you haven’t had a full-time job, you’ve probably done something. Part-time work, volunteering, internships, even helping out at family businesses – it all counts. Focus on the skills you gained and the responsibilities you held. Use those action verbs again: “Managed,” “Organised,” “Developed,” “Implemented.”

If you have limited experience, consider a skills-based CV where you highlight your abilities rather than your work history. This is particularly useful for students who have gained transferable skills through extracurricular activities or personal projects.

Your skills

Don’t forget the skills section itself. This is where you can list your hard and soft skills. Hard skills are things like software proficiency, languages, or technical abilities. Soft skills are things like teamwork, time management, and problem-solving.

Make sure to tailor this section to the job description. If they’re looking for someone with strong analytical skills, make sure that’s prominently featured.

Interests and activities

And finally, interests and activities. This section can add a bit of personality to your CV. It’s a chance to show you’re a well-rounded individual. But keep it relevant. If you’re applying for a job in marketing, mentioning your blog or social media presence is a good idea.

If you’re applying for a job in a sports centre, mentioning your involvement in a sports team is a good idea. Make sure to include extracurricular activities that show you are a well-rounded and engaged individual. This could include any clubs or societies you’re involved in.

Update it regularly

Remember, your CV is a living document. You’ll need to update it regularly as you gain new skills and experience. Proofread it carefully. Get a friend or family member to look it over. Typos and grammatical errors can make a bad impression. And always tailor your CV to each job you apply for.

Don’t just send out the same generic CV every time. Show the employer that you’ve done your research and you’re genuinely interested in the role.

Ultimately, crafting a strong CV is about telling your story in a clear, concise, and compelling way. It’s about showcasing your potential and demonstrating why you’re the perfect fit for the job. And by following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a CV that opens doors.