Q: CV No experience: How do I write a CV if I’m at school?
A: Start with this right at the top:
(You only need one 1 page! Do not substitute no experience with extra pages!
In fact you will annoy the employer with wasted paper or having to scroll down to find the information!)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Surname
- First names
- Contact numbers
- Date of birth
- Physical address
- Nationality
- Marital status
- Driver’s license (if you have one)
MOTIVATION – WHY do you want THIS job?
- Describe why you want THIS job and how YOU would fit THIS job perfectly.
- Make sure you match ALL the requirements 100%. If you don’t, your CV will go straight in the bin.
- Avoid sounding desperate. Rather sound enthusiastic.
EDUCATION
- Read the advert carefully. Send them EXACTLY what they want.
- If they ask, include ALL your qualifications (matric certificate, driver’s licences etc).
- If they ask, include your transcripts (your marks).
- Do not include your ID.
COMPUTER SKILLS
- If the advert says ‘be computer literate’, only apply if you are!
- Computer literacy usually means you have skills in MS Word, MS Office, Excel and sometimes, Powerpoint.
If you have ANY other computer skills, list them. - For example: I can email. I have MS Word and Excel skills. I have Powerpoint skills (advanced). Etc.
ACHIEVEMENTS
- If you have any achievements, list them.
- Example: I won 2nd prize in the Mathematics Olympiad in 2018. I was soccer captain at university. Etc.
ACTIVITIES
- If you participate in any activities that might help you get THIS job – tell them.
- For example: I have volunteered at the local Hospice for the past 3 years. I have learned to be a team player and I have become a very reliable and responsible person.
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
- Even if you’ve had part-time student jobs, these still look fantastic on your CV. It means you are ambitious.
- List them in order, from the most RECENT to the oldest. Remember to include the periods (dates) you worked, the company names and telephone numbers.
REFERENCES
- Choose people who you have worked or volunteered for in the past.
- Avoid asking family members or friends.
- Remember to include their name and contact details.
- Make sure you tell them EACH time you apply for a job so they are prepared if someone phones.
Make sure ALL your PERSONAL INFORMATION is up to date and correct.
Double check. You will be surprised how many mistakes are made on CVs. One mistake could cost you the job.
A COVER LETTER is essential!
