When you have no experience and need a CV to apply for a job, the task can feel incredibly daunting. It might even seem like an impossible task. After all, how do you write a CV when you have no experience? To land your dream job without any work experience, you must make the most of your other assets. Here are some tips to help you overcome the worries of professional CV writing when you have yet to gain experience, so you get to that all important interview stage.

Open with a personal statement

CVs should always start with an introduction or personal statement, as it's often known, and this is even more pertinent if you have yet to gain work experience. The personal statement describes the attributes that make you an ideal candidate for the role. One of our CV writing tips for candidates without experience is to focus on your soft skills and qualifications.

Example Summary for school leaver applying for customer service role:

Highly organized, articulate A-level student with an A* in English and Communication. Able to communicate well and build strong relationships while thriving in a fast-paced environment. Passionate about helping to achieve business goals.

With the example above, the school leaver has yet to gain experience, but they want to demonstrate that they have the soft skills required for the role.

Transferable Skills

You may not consider the babysitting you did or the leaflet distribution at school that you undertook as 'real' jobs, but these can all provide you with skills to help you secure a role. Remember, employers will often consider transferable skills if you don’t have the exact experience they desire. There is something to be learned from any type of work, even if it is unpaid, so make sure you mention this.

Your Best Assets

What attributes do you possess that would make you an ideal candidate for the role? For example, are you someone who soaks up anything about creativity? Are you a great organiser and able to manage your time well? Consider what skills you possess that will make you attractive to an employer. Some skills to consider for your   CV include; communication, teamwork, leadership, and planning and organisation.

Highlight Education

If you have no experience to mention on your CV, ensure your education stands out and is situated under your personal statement. As part of our CV writing tips, we suggest that you emphasise the subjects you undertook and your final grades. If you are a recent graduate, you can mention any projects that interest the employer.

Consider Voluntary Work

If you want to give yourself the best possible chance of success with your job application, consider undertaking voluntary work to boost your CV. There are always plenty of organisations looking for a helping hand, which can be a great way to gain some new skills and meet new people.

At Inspired CVs, we aim to help you get the most out of your CV, with both traditional and graphic options to help your next role – with or without experience. Contact us today for a professional CV writing service or order a speedy CV service online.