how to write a cv with no research experience

Write a CV with no experience

When you’re looking to land your first job, your CV needs to impress employers.

If you have little or no work experience, this can be tough.

But, with the right structure and approach, anyone can write an interview-winning CV.

This detailed guide, which includes a CV example, will show you how to write a CV with no experience, that will still impress recruiters, and take you one step closer to landing that first job.

• CV examples
• Structuring and formatting your CV
• Writing your CV profile
• Your education
• Vital skills for your CV

CV templates 

CV with no experience example – 1

CV with no experience example – 2

The CV examples above show you the basic format of a CV, and the type of content you can include when you have no experience.

I will now walk you through how to produce your own effective CV.

You can watch the video below, or read trough the rest of the guide on this page.

    Top tips for writing a CV with no experience

• Although you may have no formal work experience, be creative and fill your CV with anything that can demonstrate your workplace skills
• Use hobbies, interests, after-school clubs, sports teams and volunteering to highlight transferable skills
• Head your CV with a punchy profile to sell yourself to employers and explain why they should hire you
• Make your hard skill such as languages, IT software and written communication highly visible
• Provide lots of detail on what you have learnt in school to make up for your lack of experience

CV structure & format

The key to getting recruiters to notice your CV, is having a structure that enables ease of reading and allows them to quickly navigate your educational background and relevant skills.

Using sections to clearly identify your transferable skills, assisting you in securing an interview.

This infographic will support you in creating a simple-but-effective format and show you what sections to include in your CV

Formatting Tips

• Use bold headers, bullet points and sections to break up information and support recruiters in easily navigating your CV
• Don’t over-design your CV with imagery such as company logos or headshots and instead keep to a subdued colour pallet and a clear font
• Maintain a CV length of 2 sides of A4, don’t look to add irrelevant information to fill space and be comfortable with submitting a CV that is 1 to 2 sides

Structuring your CV

Highlight essential information within your CV by breaking up large blocks of text and working to a format that focuses on your relevancy for the sector you’re looking to apply to.

Stick to the below format when putting together your CV:

• Contact details – Make your contact details easily accessible at the top of the page
• Profile – Start your CV will a short paragraph summarising your skills and qualifications, engaging recruiters to read further
• Education – Display your qualifications, especially those most applicable to the industry you’re looking to apply to
• Work experience –   If you have any, detail voluntary experience or any part time employment
• Interests and hobbies – Look to add hobbies that document your transferable skills, providing added value to your CV

You can always use a CV template , if you want to make the structuring process easier and quicker.

CV contact details

Keep your contact information to the top of your CV, allowing recruiters to easily reach you.

Stick to the essential information as seen below:

• Phone number
• Email address

Remove supplementary information such as marital status, profile pictures or date of birth that aren’t required in your application.

Quick tip: You can save space and add some design flair to your CV by adding some icons to symbolise the contact details in your header.

Start your CV with an attention-grabbing introduction, summarising why you’re the ideal candidate for the positions you are applying to – in a punchy profile (or personal statement )

Give recruiters an insight into your background and core skills, making your educational history a focal point, displaying your interest into your preferred field – give them some good reasons to consider you.

These tips will support you in producing your CV profile :

• Research your chosen industry prior to creating your profile, making yourself custom-fit to the sector, adopting sector specific keywords
• Your profile should be between 5-10 lines, you’ll be able to elaborate elsewhere in your CV
• Avoid cliché and overused statements such as “I am punctual” or “I am hardworking” and instead, try to include key requirements from the job adverts you are applying to

What to include in your CV profile?

• Qualifications – Make your education a focal point, considering qualifications most imperative to the industry you’re pursuing
• Core skills – Document any transferable or marketable skills you’ve acquired in school or university, reflecting on strengths such as interpersonal skills , problem solving , or any skills that can translate into the workplace
• Passions – Why are you interested in pursuing your chosen career? What makes you a good fit?

Core skills & achievement section

Underneath your personal profile, add a skills section that consists of your core skills, using two to three columns of bullet points to list these strengths.

Allowing recruiters at first glance to establish your most applicable soft and hard skills, which relate to the industry you’re pursuing.

Before putting together this section, look to research the industry you’re applying to, adding keywords that make you custom fit to that sector.

When you’ve limited or no work experience , use your educational history as a focal point of the CV.

Represent the qualifications you have achieved as well as describing examples of coursework completed and including any specific accomplishments from your educational history.

Break up this information by clearly heading the type of qualification achieved, such as GCSE’ s, A Levels, Degrees or vocational training, the dates obtained and the school or college you attended.

Use bullet points to list the qualifications you secured.

Clubs and Memberships

Within your education section look to incorporate the clubs you were part of and your role within that group.

For example, whether you were the captain of a football team or a prefect at school, even considering adding any charity work you may have done.

When writing about these; try to draw out relevant skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication etc.

See also: Graduate CV – School leaver CV  – Skills based CV

Work experience

Although you may have no formal work experience – be creative and add anything that could be demonstrate workplace skills, such as:

• Big school projects
• School work experience placements
• A Saturday job
• Volunteering
• Club or sports team membership

Quick tip: If you have no work experience, pick up a volunteer role so that you have something impressive to add to the CV.

Structuring your roles

If you have anything you could add as work experience – add to your CV like the below example.

Structure the information within your roles, by breaking up large blocks of text and using bullet points, and defined sections.

Give an overview of your voluntary position, what were your duties or what skills you obtained from this experience.

“Working in a busy café supporting the kitchen and front of house staff to ensure customers have a clean and safe environment .”

Key responsibilities

Use bullet points to document any duties you had within a position.

• Interacting with the waiting and kitchen staff to collect dishes and cutlery
• Supporting kitchen preparations during opening and closing of the café

Key achievements

Document any key achievements whilst in these positions, add relevant examples integrating any facts and figures to verify these where applicable.

• Achieved employee of the month, 2 months in a row

Interests and hobbies

When you have no experience, your hobbies could help boost your application , documenting your transferable skills gained within them.

Emphasise involvement in any clubs or teams, describing the contribution you had and providing any result driven examples.

Impressive hobbies for your CV could include:

• Being in a sports team
• Being a member of a club (book club, chess club)
• Writing a blog
• Building models or machines
• Running a marathon
• Taking part in school schemes (e.g. Duke of Edinburgh Award )

Look to display your personal pursuits, even if these interests don’t directly correlate to the industry you’re applying to, reveal how you can use the experience or skills gained within the industry you’re pursuing.

For example, if you’re looking to gain employment in technology then exhibit your passion for working with computers and the skills you’ve gained such as the ability to solve problems and work methodically.

Essential skills for your CV

Portray the skills you have obtained throughout your experience in education, placements or extra curriculum activities, explaining how these can transition into a work environment.

Look to include these fundamental skills:

Communication – the ability to speak with people of a variety of levels, whether teachers, professors, customers or colleagues

Organisational Skills – the ability to juggle studies whilst taking on voluntary work

Team Work – the capacity to work within a team to overcome obstacles and achieve common goals, whether in a school project or extra-circular team

Commitment and Drive – showcase your passion and commitment towards your chosen career path

Customer Service – a talent for putting customers first and going the extra mile

Writing your CV with no experience

When you have no work experience, your CV is your first impression in the recruitment process and your opportunity to display what makes you an ideal candidate.

Highlighting all aspects of your educational background as well as the skills that make you applicable for the industry you’re looking to transition into.

By using this guide, you’ll be able to produce a well-structured CV that will assist you in obtaining your dream career.

G ood luck in your next application!

How to Write a CV With No Experience: The Format

How to write a cv with no experience for your very first job, how to write a cv without experience example, key things to remember when writing a cv with no experience, frequently asked questions, final thoughts, how to write a cv with no experience – 2024 guide + examples.

Updated November 29, 2023

When you’re writing a CV for the first time and have little or no work experience, you need to write more about your relevant soft and hard skills – to draw out why you would be a good hire. The sections that cover your education, skills and hobbies need to be data-driven and descriptive, linking your abilities to the role that you are applying for.

A CV is basically a summary of yourself that sells you to an employer. During a job application, you might be requested to send a CV with a covering letter that expresses your interest in the specific role.

To write these, you might have to get creative with how you market your skills and knowledge if you don’t yet have much work experience. This article will help you do that.

You might not have work experience if you’re a school leaver or fresh graduate, but you do have a wealth of experience in working with teams (sports, for example) or time-management (juggling your academics with extracurriculars) and even attention to detail (science experiments, maybe.)

The key is to write out everything you’ve ever done that might impress a future employer. You can start by mind-mapping or brainstorming with a friend or family member.

Then you need to nail the formatting, which is where this article comes in handy. It gives tips and examples as well as frequently asked questions to help you on your application journey.

Typically CVs fall into two categories, skills-based or experience-based. In this article, the focus is on the former – since the aim is to assist those without much experience.

You don’t want to send the same CV to everyone. You might have a basic or core CV that you then tweak for a specific job application, making sure you’re matching the skills you talk about to the actual job description.

How to write a CV with no experience is not impossible, but you want to make sure it looks as strong as possible. Getting formatting right is important when you’re looking for your first job and you’re looking to stand out amongst others.

There is always competition, but it’s hardest for graduates when there are a lot of other people in the same boat, looking for their first jobs.

There are certain items a CV should have. These are:

• Contact details
• Personal statement
• Core skills
• Education/certifications
• Experience (for example, volunteer or club experiences you might have)

There are optional extra sections you can add such as:

• Language skills/IT skills
• Hobbies and interests

Step 1 . Contact Details

This section is very simple – just add your name (usually centred in bold and a bigger font), along with a phone number and your email address.

Keep your email address sounding professional – for example, ' [email protected] ' is better than ' [email protected] '.

Bear in mind that your voicemail greeting should be equally neutral and simple. You don’t need to add your physical address, ethnicity or date of birth on your CV.

Step 2 . Personal Statement

This is a stylistic addition to CVs that works like a taster for a recruiter who is in a rush and might not read the whole CV.

It’s a two-to-five sentence summary that gives a flavour of who you are and your biggest achievements.

It helps to think of these almost as bullet points, and you can start most sentences with a verb.

You can write this last after you’ve done the rest of your CV and look at it like a frame for what follows.

For example:

Hardworking self-starter looking for roles in marketing to grow and develop my career. Worked on my college newspaper and raised circulation by 15% over two years by incorporating local advertisers. Excited to bring my attention to detail and communication skills to a bigger opportunity.

Step 3 . Core Skills

Think about what you learned at school or university that can be applied to a workplace. Can you write Powerpoints or give presentations?

That always impresses an employer.

You can also talk about general soft skills, like organisational ability or networking. How to write a CV with little experience requires you to use lateral thinking and draw upon all your extracurriculars.

If you attend workshops at your careers centre, that shows you’re proactive and engaged. Make sure you get used to adding to your core CV every couple months so you don’t forget anything new you’ve done or learned through day-to-day activities.

You can then use this as a master document to work from when you have a specific job application you’re making.

You want your CV to be memorable, so try and add something that sounds unique or different.

For example, if you did a sponsored skydive for a homelessness charity, you can use it to show that you are socially aware and able to empathise with those in different circumstances. It could even show interpersonal skills because getting sponsorship requires persuading people.

Step 4 . Education/Certifications

Your education should be written in reverse chronological order, so the more recent exams and results are displayed first.

Ideally, you want to enter your grades here but that is optional. Be sure to add dates, and you can add the names of the institutions too, if you like.

How to write a CV with little experience requires you to try and expand the education section more and make it sound as impressive as possible.

You might be surprised at what else you can put in this section. Exam results certainly, but also things like a driving licence or first aid count. You might have a lifeguarding or musical/drama qualification you can also add.

Any kind of training also counts – for example, you might have attended a workshop on gender sensitivity. Be sure to highlight what skills they have helped you develop.

For example, you could organise the section as follows:

Ten GCSEs (2022) including Triple Science (indicating an analytical mind) Merit Award (2021) in National Maths Challenge (showing logic skills) Grade 8 currently – Speech and Drama (public speaking and communications).

Step 5 . Experience

How to write a CV with no job experience is not impossible. But if you are still nervous about how to write this section, you can get professional help.

Remember, even if you weren’t paid for a role you did, it doesn’t mean you didn’t gain important business skills from it.

You can enter your volunteer roles in your CV as you would have done a paying job – specify how long you volunteered, significant tasks and the soft and hard skills you developed.

Worked in an Oxfam shop all through 2022 and learnt how to operate the checkout software, the ways to handle inventory and strong customer service skills.

Step 6 . Language Skills/IT Skills

These days, language skills are impressive and IT abilities are necessary for almost every role.

How to write a good CV with no work experience means you want to lean into these more transferable skills you might have.

Don’t be afraid to spell it out, for example:

Self-taught fluent Spanish speaker. Used Duolingo during the pandemic to achieve a 500-day streak and travelled to Spain alone (showing determination and resilience) Adept with all software packages , including statistical analysis (SPSS) Social media savvy: able to edit and produce marketing videos for various organisations

If you have a portfolio online or a particularly impressive social media following (and it’s work-appropriate), don’t be afraid to share one or two links here.

If you’re serious, you may also have a LinkedIn profile and you can also add that to your CV.

Obviously keeping your LinkedIn profile up to date and looking active with relevant shares and follows (making sure it matches the key info in your CV too) is important.

If you are sharing your LinkedIn URL, leave out the first part, so it simply reads like this: 'linkedin.com/in/NinaPatel', for example.

Step 7 . Hobbies and Interests

There is a difference between hobbies and interests: hobbies are activities you actually engage in on a regular basis, while interests are the curiosity to learn more about a topic.

So a hobby could be football (remember to talk about transferable skills like teamwork or focus), while an interest could be learning about animal taxidermy (you can link it to attention to detail or another useful trait like scientific curiosity).

There can be a lot of hobbies and interests you might want to include, but remember you are tailoring to a specific job advert.

Prioritise the items you enter in this section – for example, if you are applying for tutoring roles, employers will be keener to hear that you volunteer at the children’s library above the fact that you ran the school’s fashion show.

Other Formatting Notes

Be aware of the optimal length of a CV (no more than two pages but ideally one), the use of bullet points (they help readability) and using right font size (at least 11 for body text and above for headings).

You might also be wondering if you need to include a photo. In the UK there is no norm for including photos unless you’re applying for a job where your appearance is relevant – for example, acting or modelling.

Some big employers will often automise their CV sifting so be aware of that and use relevant keywords as much as possible.

Remember it’s not just full-time paid roles that go on your CV. How to write a CV with no job experience requires a little finesse but is doable.

Young candidates or those going through a career change should also considering adding any:

Part-time roles with relevant/transferable skills – Even if your role is working as a babysitter, there are skills like communications and delegation that you can talk about.

Internships – Ideally you have done some kind of placement through school or college, but it’s never too late to ask around local companies and offer to do some free work experience for them. Being proactive like this is a marketable trait in itself and looks great on your CV. How to write internship experience in a CV is simple — you can just break down what you did and what you learned.

Relevant voluntary work – If you visit people at a care home or if you look after a sibling it still counts as experience. You can talk about how you’re learning to manage multi-tasking or how you are building on your emotional intelligence as relevant soft skills.

Here is a sample that shows how to write experience in a CV when you have minimal working roles.

In this case, you would bulk up the sections on skills and hobbies/interests, drawing out how they were helpful in developing you as a person.

Alex Smith 4567 Adventure Road Innovation City, Tech 54321 (123) 456-7890 [email protected] Objective As a recent Information Technology graduate, I am eager to apply my technical knowledge and problem-solving skills in an entry-level IT role. I am keen on contributing to a team that values innovation and continuous learning. Education Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Tech University, Innovation City August 2019 – May 2023 Graduated with a 3.8 GPA. Relevant Coursework: Software Development, Network Security, Database Management, Web Design. Senior Project: Developed a web-based inventory management system for small businesses. Diploma in Computer Science Future Leaders High School, Cyber Town August 2015 – May 2019 Specialized in computer programming and digital technologies. Led the coding club, organizing weekly coding challenges and workshops. Core Skills Programming Proficiency: Skilled in Python, Java, and HTML/CSS. Analytical Thinking: Capable of analyzing complex problems and developing effective solutions. Teamwork and Collaboration: Experienced in working on group projects, contributing technical expertise and coordinating efforts. Quick Learner: Rapidly adapt to new technologies and programming languages. Experience Peer Tutor, Tech University September 2021 – May 2023 Tutored students in basic programming and web development, enhancing teaching and communication skills. Developed resource materials and practice exercises, showcasing organizational skills. Volunteer, Community Tech Help June 2020 – August 2022 Assisted community members with basic computer setup and troubleshooting, demonstrating technical knowledge and patience. Conducted workshops on internet safety and digital literacy for seniors. Hobbies/Interests Robotics: Build and program robots as a hobby; participated in several amateur robotics competitions. Gaming: Active in online gaming communities, developing strategic thinking and team coordination. Mountain Biking: Enjoy off-road biking, demonstrating physical fitness and a love for outdoor challenges. Other Skills Cybersecurity Fundamentals: Completed an online course in cybersecurity, gaining basic knowledge in network security and data protection. Communication: Effective communicator, capable of explaining complex technical concepts in easy-to-understand terms. Multitasking: Adept at managing multiple tasks simultaneously without compromising quality. References available upon request.

When you are looking for your first job and don’t have much experience, getting the basics right is really important.

Top tips for how to write experience in a CV are as follows:

Research the role and company – The importance of tailoring your CV can’t be overstated. Use similar skills/language as seen in the job posting for success. You can paraphrase, too, if you are referencing the same trait several times – for example, use ‘hardworking’ instead of ‘dedicated’ so that there’s not too much repetition.

Highlight your skills – Focus more on both of your hard and soft skills when you don’t have a lot of job experience.

Showcase your education – When you have no experience, your education can be a big boost – don’t forget about the different coursework/projects/extracurricular activities you’ve done either.

Proofread your CV – Always ensure it is free of errors and mistakes and get a second pair of eyes to help you. Your careers teachers at school are a good place to start. You can also ask their opinions on how to write a CV when you have no experience.

How do I write a simple CV with no experience?

Showcase your education – it can be a big boost. Highlight the different coursework/projects/extracurricular activities you’ve done too.

Be aware of the optimal length of a CV (no more than two pages), use bullet points and the right font size (at least 11 for body text and above for headings).

How do I write a CV for my first job?

Write more about your relevant soft and hard skills to draw out why you’d be a good hire. Make the education, skills and hobbies section data-driven and descriptive, linking your abilities to the role.

Research the role and company, and use similar skills/language as seen in the job posting.

How can I write a CV that highlights my volunteering roles?

Even if you weren’t paid for a role, it doesn’t mean you didn’t gain important business skills from it.

Enter your volunteer roles in your CV as you would have done a paying job – specify how long you volunteered, significant tasks and the soft and hard skills you developed.

How do I write a student CV?

Think about what you learned at school or university that can be applied to a workplace. Did you write Powerpoints or give presentations? You can also talk about general soft skills, like organisational ability or networking.

If you attend workshops at your careers centre, that shows you’re proactive and engaged.

What makes a good CV for students?

You might not have work experience, but you may have a wealth of experience in working with teams, time-management and even attention to detail.

Write out everything you’ve ever done that might impress a future employer. Then you need to pick what is a good fit for the specific job.

What is a CV for college students?

Focus on academics and the skills you’ve developed through them as well as useful extracurriculars.

Consider adding part-time roles with relevant/transferable skills – even if your role is working as a babysitter, there are skills like communications and delegation that you can talk about.

Relevant voluntary work also helps.

How do I write a CV for a fresher?

Think about all aspects of your educational background – as well as the traits or interests that make you a strong match for the job.

Write the educational section in reverse chronological, and add in any kind of training. Be sure to highlight what skills you developed.

How to write a CV without experience can seem daunting. You want to make a great first impression, so getting the CV right and focusing on hard and soft skills will help.

Make sure you have thought about all aspects of your educational background – as well as the traits or interests that make you a strong match for the job.

How to write work experience in a CV is a skill, especially when you don’t have a lot to focus on. With a bit of time and practise, you’ll be able to create a great CV showing transferable skills to help begin your dream career.

Choose PurpleCV and get:

• Access to your own specialist writer
• Unlimited revisions for 12 months
• Average 2-day turnaround (specialist CV 5 days)
• No templates are used on any of our CVs

You might also be interested in these other Psychometric Success articles:

Or explore the Application Advice / CVs sections.

Princeton Correspondents on Undergraduate Research

Tips for Writing about Your Research Experience (Even if You Don’t Think You Have Any)

If you’re someone who hasn’t yet done formal research in a university setting, one of the most intimidating parts of the process can be simply getting your foot in the door. Just like the way your options can seem very limited when applying for your first job, asking for a research position when you have no “experience” can seem discouraging — maybe even to the point of causing you to question whether you should apply in the first place. With that being said, there are some simple tips you can employ when applying for research positions to highlight the link between your existing interests and the work of the position for which you are applying.

First things first: tailor not just your cover letter (for applications that ask for it) but your resume to the position for which you are applying. Even if you’re just sending a casual email to a professor to ask about the research that they’re doing, as a rule, it never hurts to attach your resume. I also like to think that submitting a resume even without being asked to shows that you’re serious about doing research, and have taken the time to put together a thoughtful inquiry into a position. If you’ve never written a cover letter or resume before, don’t fret. The Center for Career Development has some great online resources to help you create one from scratch. If you are looking for more individualized help, you can also schedule an appointment to get one-on-one feedback on your application at any stage in the writing process.

One of the things that I’ve found, however, is that the single-page format of a resume often isn’t enough space to include all of the information about every single thing you’ve ever done. Rather than trying to jam as many impressive accomplishments as you can onto a page, your goal should be to create a resume that gives a cumulative sense of your interests and experiences as they relate to the position for which you are applying. One of my favorite ways to do this is to create a “Research” section. “But Kate, what if I don’t have any research experience?,” you ask. Remember that paper you wrote about a painting by Monet in your favorite class last semester? Write the title down, or even a sentence or two that summarizes your main argument. The art museum you’re hoping to do research at will love knowing that your interest in their current exhibition on Impressionism is rooted in classes you’ve taken and the projects you’ve done in them, no matter how new you may be to a topic. Your interest in a specific research position has to come from somewhere, and your resume is an important part of demonstrating this to others.

What I would like to reassure you of is that it’s normal to be an undergraduate with very little research experience. The people reading your application —whether it be for an official program or even if it’s just a friendly email with a few questions— know that you are a student and will probably be excited to offer you guidance on how to get involved with more specific research projects even if all you have to offer at this point is enthusiasm for the topic. Working in a lab or with a professor on a research project is an opportunity designed to help you learn above all else, so it’s ok if you don’t know what you’re doing! It goes without saying that having little experience will make the final result of your research experience all the more worthwhile because of the potential to gain knowledge in ways you haven’t even imagined.

— Kate Weseley-Jones, Humanities Correspondent

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Academic CV (Curriculum Vitae) for Research: CV Examples

What is an academic CV (or research CV)?

An academic CV or “curriculum vitae” is a full synopsis (usually around two to three pages) of your educational and academic background. In addition to college and university transcripts, the personal statement or statement of purpose , and the cover letter, postgraduate candidates need to submit an academic CV when applying for research, teaching, and other faculty positions at universities and research institutions. 

Writing an academic CV (also referred to as a “research CV” or “academic resume”) is a bit different than writing a professional resume. It focuses on your academic experience and qualifications for the position—although relevant work experience can still be included if the position calls for it. 

What’s the difference between a CV and a resume?

While both CVs and resumes summarize your major activities and achievements, a resume is more heavily focused on professional achievements and work history. An academic CV, on the other hand, highlights academic accomplishments and summarizes your educational experience, academic background and related information.

Think of a CV as basically a longer and more academic version of a resume. It details your academic history, research interests, relevant work experience, publications, honors/awards, accomplishments, etc. For grad schools, the CV is a quick indicator of how extensive your background is in the field and how much academic potential you have. Ultimately, grad schools use your academic resume to gauge how successful you’re likely to be as a grad student.

Do I need an academic CV for graduate school?

Like personal statements, CVs are a common grad school application document (though not all programs require them). An academic CV serves the same basic purpose as a regular CV: to secure you the job you want—in this case, the position of “grad student.” Essentially, the CV is a sales pitch to grad schools, and you’re selling yourself !

In addition to your college transcripts, GRE scores, and personal statement or statement of purpose , graduate schools often require applicants submit an academic CV. The rules for composing a CV for a Master’s or doctoral application are slightly different than those for a standard job application. Let’s take a closer look.

Academic CV Format Guidelines

No matter how compelling the content of your CV might be, it must still be clear and easy for graduate admissions committee members to understand. Keep these formatting and organization tips in mind when composing and revising your CV:

• Whatever formatting choices you make (e.g., indentation, font and text size, spacing, grammar), keep it consistent throughout the document.
• Use bolding, italics, underlining, and capitalized words to highlight key information.
• Use reverse chronological order to list your experiences within the sections.
• Include the most important information to the top and left of each entry and place associated dates to the right.
• Include page numbers on each page followed by your last name as a header or footer.
• Use academic verbs and terms in bulleted lists; vary your language and do not repeat the same terms. (See our list of best verbs for CVs and resumes )

How long should a CV be?

While resumes should be concise and are usually limited to one or two pages, an academic CV isn’t restricted by word count or number of pages. Because academic CVs are submitted for careers in research and academia, they have all of the sections and content of a professional CV, but they also require additional information about publications, grants, teaching positions, research, conferences, etc. 

It is difficult to shorten the length without shortening the number of CV sections you include. Because the scope and depth of candidates’ academic careers vary greatly, academic CVs that are as short as two pages or as long as five pages will likely not surprise graduate admissions faculty.

How to Write an Academic CV

Before we look at academic CV examples, let’s discuss the main sections of the CV and how you can go about writing your CV from scratch. Take a look at the sections of the academic CV and read about which information to include and where to put each CV section. For academic CV examples, see the section that follows this one.

Academic CV Sections to Include (with Examples)

A strong academic CV should include the following sections, starting from the top of the list and moving through the bottom. This is the basic Academic CV structure, but some of the subsections (such as research publications and academic awards) can be rearranged to highlight your specific strengths and achievements. 

• Contact Information
• Research Objective or Personal Profile
• Education Section
• Professional Appointments
• Research Publications
• Awards and Honors
• Grants and Fellowships
• Conferences Attended
• Teaching Experience
• Research Experience
• Additional Activities
• Languages and Skills

Now let’s go through each section of your academic CV to see what information to include in detail. 

1. Contact Information

Your academic curriculum vitae must include your full contact information, including the following: 

• Professional title and affiliation (if applicable)
• Institutional address (if you are currently registered as a student)
• Your home address
• Your email address
• Your telephone number
• LinkedIn profile or other professional profile links (if applicable)

In more business-related fields or industries, adding your LinkedIn profile in your contact information section is recommended to give reviewers a more holistic understanding of your academic and professional profile.

Check out our article on how to use your LinkedIn profile to attract employers .

2. Research Objective or Personal Profile

A research objective for an academic CV is a concise paragraph (or long sentence) detailing your specific research plans and goals.

A personal profile gives summarizes your academic background and crowning achievements.

Should you choose a research objective or a personal profile?

If you are writing a research CV, include a research objective. For example, indicate that you are applying to graduate research programs or seeking research grants for your project or study

A research objective will catch the graduate admission committee’s attention and make them want to take a closer look at you as a candidate.

Academic CV research objective example for PhD application  

MA student in Sociology and Gender Studies at North American University who made the President’s List for for six consecutive semesters seeking to use a semester-long research internship to enter into postgraduate research on the Impetus for Religious In-groups in Eastern Europe in the Twentieth Century.

Note that the candidate includes details about their academic field, their specific scholastic achievements (including an internship), and a specific topic of study. This level of detail shows graduate committees that you are a candidate who is fully prepared for the rigors of grad school life. 

While an academic CV research objective encapsulates your research objective, a CV personal profile should summarize your personal statement or grad school statement of purpose . 

Academic CV personal profile example for a post-doctoral university position

Proven excellence in the development of a strong rapport with undergraduate students, colleagues, and administrators as a lecturer at a major research university. Exhibits expertise in the creation and implementation of lifelong learning programs and the personalized development of strategies and activities to propel learning in Higher Education, specifically in the field of Education. Experienced lecturer, inspirational tutor, and focused researcher with a knack for recognizing and encouraging growth in individuals. Has completed a Master’s and PhD in Sociology and Education with a BA in Educational Administration.

What makes this CV personal profile example so compelling? Again, the details included about the applicant’s academic history and achievements make the reader take note and provide concrete examples of success, proving the candidate’s academic acumen and verifiable achievements.

3. Education Section

If you are applying to an academic position, the Education section is the most essential part of your academic CV.

List your postsecondary degrees in reverse chronological order . Begin with your most recent education (whether or not you have received a degree at the time of application), follow it with your previous education/degree, and then list the ones before these.

Include the following educational details:

• Year of completion or expected completion (do not include starting dates)
• Type of Degree
• Any minor degrees (if applicable)
• Your department and institution
• Your honors and awards
• Dissertation/Thesis Title and Advisor (if applicable)

Because this is arguably the most important academic CV section, make sure that all of the information is completely accurate and that you have not left out any details that highlight your skills as a student. 

4. Professional Appointments

Following the education section, list your employment/professional positions on your academic CV. These should be positions related to academia rather than previous jobs or positions you held in the private section (whether it be a chef or a CEO). These appointments are typically tenure-track positions, not ad hoc and adjunct professor gigs, nor TA (teacher assistant) experience. You should instead label this kind of experience under “Teaching Experience,” which we discuss further down the list.

List the following information for each entry in your “Professional Appointments” section:

• Institution (university/college name)
• Department 
• Your professional title
• Dates employed (include beginning and end dates)
• Duties in this position

5. Research Publications

Divide your publications into two distinct sections: peer-reviewed publications and other publications. List peer-reviewed publications first, as these tend to carry more weight in academia. Use a subheading to distinguish these sections for the reader and make your CV details easier to understand.

Within each subsection, further divide your publications in the following order:

• Book chapters
• Peer-reviewed journal articles
• Contributions to edited volumes equivalent to peer-reviewed journals

All of your other research publications should be put into a subcategory titled “Other Publications.” This includes all documents published by a third party that did not receive peer review, whether it is an academic journal, a science magazine, a website, or any other publishing platform. 

Tip: When listing your publications, choose one academic formatting style ( MLA style , Chicago style , APA style , etc.) and apply it throughout your academic CV. Unsure which formatting style to use? Check the website of the school you are applying to and see what citation style they use.

6. Awards and Honors

This section allows you to show off how your skills and achievements were officially acknowledged. List all academic honors and awards you have received in reverse chronological order, just like the education and professional appointments sections. Include the name of the award, which year you received it, and the institution that awarded it to you.

Should you include how much money you were awarded? While this is not recommended for most academic fields (including humanities and social sciences), it is more common for business or STEM fields.

7. Fellowships and Grants

It is important to include fellowships and grants you received because it evidences that your research has been novel and valuable enough to attract funding from institutions or third parties.

Just like with awards and honors, list your grants and fellowships in reverse chronological order. Enter the years your fellowship or grant spanned and the name of the institution or entity providing the funding. Whether you disclose the specific dollar amount of funding you received depends on your field of study, just as with awards and honors.

8. Conferences Attended

Involvement in academic conferences shows admissions committees that you are already an active member of the research community. List the academic conferences in which you took part and divide this section into three subsections:

• Invited talks —conferences you presented at other institutions to which you received an invitation
• Campus talks —lectures you gave on your own institution’s campus
• Conference participation —conferences you participated in (attended) but gave no lecture

9. Teaching Experience

The “Teaching Experience” section is distinct from the “Professional Appointments” section discussed above.  In the Teaching Experience CV section, list any courses you taught as a TA (teacher’s assistant) you have taught. If you taught fewer than ten courses, list all of them out. Included the name of the institution, your department, your specific teaching role, and the dates you taught in this position. 

If you have a long tenure as an academic scholar and your academic CV Appointments section strongly highlights your strengths and achievements, in the Teaching Experience sections you could list only the institutions at which you were a TA. Since it is likely that you will be teaching, lecturing, or mentoring undergraduates and other research students in your postgraduate role, this section is helpful in making you stand out from other graduate, doctoral, or postdoctoral candidates.

10. Research Experience

In the “Research Experience” section of your CV, list all of the academic research posts at which you served. As with the other CV sections, enter these positions in reverse chronological order.

If you have significant experience (and your academic CV is filling up), you might want to limit research and lab positions to only the most pertinent to the research position to which you are applying. Include the following research positions:

• Full-time Researcher
• Research Associate
• Research Assistant

For an academic or research CV, if you do not have much research experience, include all research projects in which you participated–even the research projects with the smallest roles, budget, length, or scope. 

11. Additional Activities

If you have any other activities, distinctions, positions, etc. that do not fit into the above academic CV sections, include them here.

The following items might fit in the “Additional Activities” section:

• Extracurriculars (clubs, societies, sports teams, etc.)
• Jobs unrelated to your academic career
• Service to profession
• Media coverage
• Volunteer work

12. Languages and Skills

Many non-academic professional job positions require unique skillsets to succeed. The same can be true with academic and research positions at universities, especially when you speak a language that might come in handy with the specific area of study or with the other researchers you are likely to be working alongside.

Include all the languages in which you are proficient enough to read and understand academic texts. Qualify your proficiency level with the following terms and phrases:

• IntermediateNative/bilingual in Language
• Can read Language with a dictionary
• Advanced use of Language
• Fully proficient in Language
• Native fluency in Language
• Native/Bilingual Language speaker

If you only have a basic comprehension of a language (or if you simply minored in it a decade ago but never really used it), omit these from this section. 

Including skills on an academic CV is optional and MIGHT appear somewhat amateur if it is not a skill that is difficult and would likely contribute to your competency in your research position. In general, include a skill only if you are in a scientific or technical field (STEM fields) and if they realistically make you a better candidate.

13. References 

The final section of your academic CV is the “References” section. Only include references from individuals who know you well and have first-hand experience working with you, either in the capacity of a manager, instructor, or professor, or as a colleague who can attest to your character and how well you worked in that position. Avoid using personal references and never use family members or acquaintances–unless they can somehow attest to your strength as an academic.

List your references in the order of their importance or ability to back up your candidacy. In other words, list the referrers you would want the admissions faculty to contact first and who would give you a shining review. 

Include the following in this order:

• Full name and academic title
• Physical mailing address
• Telephone number
• Email address

Academic CV Examples by Section 

Now that you have a template for what to include in your academic CV sections, let’s look at some examples of academic CV sections with actual applicant information included. Remember that the best CVs are those that clearly state the applicant’s qualifications, skills, and achievements. Let’s go through the CV section-by-section to see how best to highlight these elements of your academic profile. Note that although this example CV does not include EVERY section detailed above, this doesn’t mean that YOU shouldn’t include any of those sections if you have the experiences to fill them in.

CV Example: Personal Details (Basic)

Write your full name, home address, phone number, and email address. Include this information at the top of the first page, either in the center of the page or aligned left.

• Tip: Use a larger font size and put the text in bold to make this info stand out.

CV Example: Profile Summary (Optional)

This applicant uses an academic research profile summary that outlines their personal details and describes core qualifications and interests in a specific research topic. Remember that the aim of this section is to entice admissions officials into reading through your entire CV.

• Tip: Include only skills, experience, and what most drives you in your academic and career goals.

CV Example: Education Section (Basic)

This applicant’s academic degrees are listed in reverse chronological order, starting with those that are currently in progress and recently completed and moving backward in time to their undergraduate degrees and institutions.

• Include the name of the institution; city, state, and country (if different from the institution to which you are applying); degree type and major; and month/year the degree was or will be awarded.
• Provide details such as the title of your thesis/dissertation and your advisor, if applicable.
• Tip: Provide more details about more recent degrees and fewer details for older degrees.

CV Example: Relevant Experience (Basic)

List professional positions that highlight your skills and qualifications. When including details about non-academic jobs you have held, be sure that they relate to your academic career in some way. Group experiences into relevant categories if you have multiple elements to include in one category (e.g., “Research,” “Teaching,” and “Managerial”). For each position, be sure to:

• Include position title; the name of organization or company; city, state, and country (if different from the institution to which you are applying); and dates you held the position
• Use bullet points for each relevant duty/activity and accomplishment
• Tip: For bulleted content, use strong CV words , vary your vocabulary, and write in the active voice; lead with the verbs and write in phrases rather than in complete sentences.

CV Example: Special Qualifications or Skills (Optional)

Summarize skills and strengths relevant to the position and/or area of study if they are relevant and important to your academic discipline. Remember that you should not include any skills that are not central to the competencies of the position, as these can make you appear unprofessional.

CV Example: Publications (Basic)

Include a chronological (not alphabetical) list of any books, journal articles, chapters, research reports, pamphlets, or any other publication you have authored or co-authored. This sample CV does not segment the publications by “peer-reviewed” and “non-peer-reviewed,” but this could simply be because they do not have many publications to list. Keep in mind that your CV format and overall design and readability are also important factors in creating a strong curriculum vitae, so you might opt for a more streamlined layout if needed.

• Use bibliographic citations for each work in the format appropriate for your particular field of study.
• Tip: If you have not officially authored or co-authored any text publications, include studies you assisted in or any online articles you have written or contributed to that are related to your discipline or that are academic in nature. Including any relevant work in this section shows the faculty members that you are interested in your field of study, even if you haven’t had an opportunity to publish work yet.

CV Example: Conferences Attended (Basic)

Include any presentations you have been involved in, whether you were the presenter or contributed to the visual work (such as posters and slides), or simply attended as an invitee. See the CV template guide in the first section of this article for how to list conference participation for more seasoned researchers.

• Give the title of the presentation, the name of the conference or event, and the location and date.
• Briefly describe the content of your presentation.
• Tip: Use style formatting appropriate to your field of study to cite the conference (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.)

CV Example: Honors and Awards (Basic)

Honors and awards can include anything from university scholarships and grants, to teaching assistantships and fellowships, to inclusion on the Dean’s list for having a stellar GPA. As with other sections, use your discretion and choose the achievements that best highlight you as a candidate for the academic position.

• Include the names of the honors and official recognition and the date that you received them.
• Tip: Place these in order of importance, not necessarily in chronological order.

CV Example: Professional/Institutional Service (Optional)

List the professional and institutional offices you have held, student groups you have led or managed, committees you have been involved with, or extra academic projects you have participated in.

• Tip: Showing your involvement in campus life, however minor, can greatly strengthen your CV. It shows the graduate faculty that you not only contribute to the academic integrity of the institution but that you also enrich the life of the campus and community.

CV Example: Certifications and Professional Associations (Optional)

Include any membership in professional organizations (national, state, or local). This can include nominal participation as a student, not only as a professional member.

CV Example: Community Involvement and Volunteer Work (Optional)

Include any volunteer work or outreach to community organizations, including work with churches, schools, shelters, non-profits, and other service organizations. As with institutional service, showing community involvement demonstrates your integrity and willingness to go the extra mile—a very important quality in a postgraduate student or faculty member. 

While the CV template guide above suggests including these activities in a section titled “Additional Activities,” if you have several instances of volunteer work or other community involvement, creating a separate heading will help catch the eye of the admissions reviewer.

CV Example: References Section (Basic)

References are usually listed in the final section of an academic CV. Include 3-5 professional or academic references who can vouch for your ability and qualifications and provide evidence of these characteristics.

• Write the name of the reference, professional title, affiliation, and contact information (phone and email are sufficient). You do not need to write these in alphabetical order. Consider listing your references in order of relevance and impact.

CV Editing for Research Positions

After you finish drafting and revising your academic CV, you still need to ensure that your language is clear, compelling, and accurate and that it doesn’t have any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation. 

A good academic CV typically goes through at least three or four rounds of revision before it is ready to send out to university department faculty. Be sure to have a peer or CV editing service check your CV or academic resume, and get cover letter editing and application essay editing for your longer admissions documents to ensure that there are no glaring errors or major room for improvement.

For professional editing services that are among the highest quality in the industry, send your CV and other application documents to Wordvice’s admissions editing services . Our professional proofreaders and editors will ensure that your hard work is reflected in your CV and help make your postgrad goals a reality.

Check out our full suite of professional proofreading and English editing services on the Wordvice homepage.

How to Write a Resume with No Experience [21+ Examples]

It’s time for your first job hunt !

You need to write a resume , which can be nerve-wracking if you don’t have any real-life work experience.  

You don’t know where to start, what to include, or which resume format to choose.

On top of that, most advice you find online isn’t relevant because it focuses on emphasizing professional background.

Chances are, you’re straight out of college with no experience to speak of. 

Or maybe you're a high-school student applying for a part-time job.

Whichever the case may be, you’re probably having trouble filling in the blank space on your resume that’s supposed to be the work experience section.

Worry not, though. In this guide, we’re going to help you create an AMAZING resume, no work experience is needed.

• How to format your resume with no work experience
• 4 sections to replace work experience (that help you stand out)
• 2 no-work experience resume samples (guaranteed to land you the job)

How to Format Your Resume [with No Work Experience + Examples] 

A resume format is the layout of your resume .

The ideal resume format usually depends on how much work experience you have. 

But what happens when you have none?

For a no-experience resume, we recommend that you use the reverse-chronological format . 

It’s the most popular format amongst applicants and a recruiter favorite.  

The sections in your reverse-chronological resume will be: 

• Header : Contact Information and Resume Statement
• Internships, extracurricular activities, projects, volunteer work  (These sections will replace your work experience)

In this article, we’ll walk you through each of these sections, and explain how to write them in a way that you stand out from the crowd.

Let’s dive in.

Start With Your Resume Header

Your resume header includes your contact information and your resume statement.  

Below, we’ll show you how to write both of these elements and how to include them in your header section.

Put Down Your Contact Information

Just like the name suggests, the first thing you add to your header is your personal and contact information.

It’s the easiest part to get right, just keep it short and to the point.

In your contact information section, mention the following:

• First and Last Name
• Phone Number
• E-mail Address
• A link to a professional profile (e.g. LinkedIn ) or personal webpage (if you have one)

Make sure to use a professional-sounding E-mail.

I.e. something along the lines of “[email protected].” 

You’re sure to leave a wrong impression if you use an email you created back in preschool ( “[email protected]” ).

Make sure to double-check, triple-check your contact information. After all, the recruiter can’t contact you if you have a typo in your phone number.

(Optional) Write Your Resume Objective

A resume objective is a short heading statement in your resume, where you describe your professional goals and aspirations.

Fun fact - hiring managers look at your resume for 5-6 seconds max .

Yep, that’s right. In most cases, the hiring manager is literally drowning in resumes. So, they have a couple of seconds to skim each one.

Well, this section is your chance to catch their attention (and let them know you’ve got what it takes).

A resume objective is usually 3-4 sentences max and includes information on:

• What your field of study is;
• What your skills and experiences are (ones that are relevant to the job );
• Why you’re applying for this position and/or this company.

As with contact information, you don’t need to label your resume objective with a title. Just write it underneath your contact information section.

Here’s an example of what a resume objective looks like:

“ Recent Communications graduate looking to apply for the role of Secretary at XYZ inc. Extremely organized with good writing and multitasking skills. Practical experience in management gained through several university projects, which involved coordinating tasks between different team members and ensuring that everyone was in sync with the latest information. ”

Emphasize Your Education

In your average resume, the first section would be work experience.

Since you don’t have any, though, you’ll want to omit that and replace it with the education section.

This way, you bring a lot more attention to your education, which is one of your main selling points. 

What should you include in the Education section? 

List the following features in this order:

• Name of the degree
• Name of the institution
• Years attended
• Location of the institution (optional)
• GPA (optional)
• Honors (optional)
• Relevant coursework (optional)
• Exchange programs (optional) 

As a general rule, if you studied in a prestigious university, you can add the name of the institution before the degree . This way, you will catch the recruiter’s attention faster.

Now, let’s go through some real-life examples:

BA in Computer Science

Tufts University

Medford and Somerville, Massachusetts

10/2015 - 06/2018

Magna Cum Laude

• Exchange Program in Greenville, NY

University of the Arts London

BA in Interior Design 

10/2017 - Ongoing

Westwood High

Boston, Massachusetts

Class of 2018 

Education Section Q&A

Still have some questions about the education section? Worry not, we’re about to give you all the answers!

Do I include my GPA?

• The answer here is a “maybe.” We’d recommend including a GPA if it’s higher than 3.5. Anything lower than that, and you might be underselling yourself. Keep in mind, though, that most employers don’t care about your grades.

Should I include my coursework?

• Yep, but just as long as it’s relevant. If you have no work experience, including courses can help establish your expertise in a field. Feel free to skip out on any basic courses, though. No one cares about your Maths 101 course.

Do I mention my degree if I dropped out?

• If you studied for more than 2-3 years, yes. A half-finished degree is still better than no degree. If you dropped out after a semester, though, that doesn’t really mean much.

Do I mention my high school degree?

• Only if it’s your only degree. If you have any higher education, your high school degree will only take up space.

4 Sections to Replace Work Experience [With Examples]

Now that you’ve listed your education, it’s time to fill that work experience gap in your resume.

You aren’t still worried about your lack of experience, right?

Because here are four sections you can use instead:

1) Internships

Have you done an internship that is relevant to the position you are applying for?

Now’s the time to mention it. 

Here is how you add an internship to your resume:

First , place the Internship section right after the education section. 

Title it: Internships

Second , write your internship title and role . Be specific.

If your internship was in the marketing department, instead of just “Intern”, say “Marketing Intern”. 

Third , put down the company name , location , and duration of the internship - in that order.

Marketing Intern

Full Picture

New York, NY

09/2019 - 12/2019

Easy and straightforward, right?

One more step:

Last , add a list of responsibilities you had as an intern in bullet point form. 

If you have any tangible achievements , even better! Write those in as well.

Finally, tailor both the responsibilities and achievements to the role you’re applying for.

Here’s how that looks in practice:

You used to be an Advertising Intern .

You’re applying for the position of Social Media Assistant . 

Here’s how you would put down your internship entry:

Internships

Full Picture Company

• Analyzed various social media platforms for trending content
• Managed company social media accounts
• Posted interested content on company Facebook page, increasing engagement by 25%

The listed responsibilities and achievements are directly connected to the Social Media Assistant job requirements.

You’re applying for a Content Writer position. Take a look at the same entry now:

• Assisted the Marketing Manager in writing press releases and new blog posts , which increased web traffic by 25%.

Notice how the internship title remains the same. 

But in this case you’re applying for a Content Writer position, so you are highlighting your writing experience instead.

For more examples, check out our full guides to an internship resume and how to write a cover letter for an internship .

2) Extracurricular activities

Still have a ton of empty space in your resume?

Extracurricular activities are always a great addition!

Whether they’re related to the job you’re applying for or not, they still show one thing:

You’re hard-working and motivated.

Imagine you’re the HR manager, and you can pick between these 2 candidates:

• Josh Johnson. Studied at Massachusetts State. 4.0 GPA, but that’s all he did in college - no extracurricular activities, internships, or anything else.
• Suzie Activeson. Also studied at Massachusetts state. 3.2 GPA. Vice-president of the business club. Served as a student government senator for 2 semesters. Organized several events as part of the marketing club.

Sure, Josh is probably qualified, but we don't know anything about him, other than that he studied a lot.

Suzie, on the other hand, can manage a team (business club VP), organize events (marketing club), and is passionate about making a change (student government).

So, which one would you pick?

Now, let’s explain how to list extracurricular activities on your resume:

• Title of the section: Extracurricular Activities
• Name of the organization and/or team 
• Your role in the organization
• Time period
• Noteworthy awards or achievements

Extracurricular Activities

Public Speaking Club

Vice-President

09/2018 - 09/2019

• Organized 10+ public speaking lectures
• Brought in speakers from all over the state
• Conducted public speaking workshops

3) Volunteering Experience

Volunteering shows dedication and passion to apply yourself. 

And there’s nothing recruiters love more than a committed employee.  

Whether you spend your free time in a soup kitchen, or you helped collect trash in the countryside, you can mention it in your resume!

But how do you list volunteering experience?

Well, it follows the same logic as your internship and extracurriculars:

• Title of the section: Volunteering Experience
• Name of the organization
• Relevant tasks and achievements (bullet points)

Volunteering Experience

Grand Archive Library Volunteer

Washington, D.C

08/2017 - 02/2019

• Performed secretarial activities, such as sorting mail, filing documents, answering phone calls, and taking messages. 
• Led a poetry reading event twice a month. 

4) Projects

In this section, you can add any relevant projects you were part of during your time in school or at an internship.

Your capstone project, graduation thesis, or research project go here. 

No need for work experience!

You can also mention any other type of project you’ve worked on in school, including:

• Business project for a real-life client
• Mock website you created in Web Design 101
• Fake magazine you created as a capstone project
• Market research you did as part of your graduation thesis
• Software you developed in Software Engineering class

...And so on!

Here’s how you put them down:

• Title of the section: Projects
• Project name
• Project type
• Related organization 
• Relevant responsibilities and achievements (optional)

And now, for some practical examples. Here’s what a journalism student project could look like:

Online Privacy and Social Media: a Journalistic Study of Facebook and Cambridge Analytica

Journalism Capstone Project

Harvard University

09/2018 - 11/2018

And here’s a law school example:

In-House Pro Bono Project

Columbia Law School

11/2018 - 03/2019

• Completed a full petition for U nonimmigrant status, interviewed legal persons and drafted affidavits.

If you have anything physical to back up your project with, feel free to include a link.

For example, if you’re a developer, you could include a link to your GitHub profile.

Stand out with your Skills 

There are two types of skills you can include on your no-experience resume: 

Soft skills and hard skills. 

What’s the difference? 

Soft skills are attributes or habits that describe how you work. They are not specific to a job, but indirectly help you adapt to the work environment. 

Here are some of the most popular ones: teamwork, responsibility, leadership, creativity, etc.  

Hard skills , on the other hand, refer to specific tools, technical knowledge and training and other work-specific skills. They apply directly to the job. 

Technical writing, C++, financial accounting, etc. are all examples of hard skills.

So, which of these skills should you include? 

That depends on a lot of factors, but as someone with no work experience, you should opt more for hard skills .

See, you could write all the cool buzzwords like “Critical Thinking” and “Leadership,” but the recruiter won’t believe you.

Fun fact - that’s what 90% of students do.

Instead, you should focus on skills that make you stand out , and in most cases, those are hard skills.

So, how do you decide which hard skills to mention? Easy! Just check the job ad you’re applying for.

Let’s say you’re applying for an entry-level creative internship, and you find these requirements in the job description: 

• Video editing experience (Premiere, After Effects)
• UI design experience
• Photo editing experience (Photoshop)
• Photography experience
• Experience with Adobe Illustrator

You’d transfer this into your skills section:

• Premiere & After Effects - Expert
• Photoshop - Expert
• UI Design - Intermediate
• Adobe Illustrator - Intermediate
• Photography - Intermediate

Not sure which skills to mention? Check out our article on 150+ must-have skills for all sorts of professions !

Other Sections You Could Include in a No-Experience Resume

A resume without experience does have one advantage: extra space . 

You can use this space to create other sections that highlight how awesome you are!

Here are some sections you could include:

• Hobbies and Interests . Add flair to your resume by showing your genuine passion and interest in the industry.
• Languages. Do you know a second language? Or even a third? Awesome! Most companies these days are pretty international and appreciate an extra language skill or two. Be mindful not to over-exaggerate your proficiency, though. Only knowing how to ask “¿Donde está la biblioteca?” doesn’t warrant a Spanish entry on your resume.
• Awards & Certifications . Do you have any fancy pieces of paper that show you’re smart? Maybe it’s an award for a terrific essay in a competition, or a certificate from an online course . Whichever the case may be, awards and certifications show that you’re a winner, so definitely include them in their own respective section.

Need Inspiration? 2 No Work Experience Resume Samples

Do you still have questions or don’t know where to begin?

That’s when a resume sample comes in handy. 

It provides you with a predetermined format.

It also helps you picture how your no-experience resume is supposed to look like. 

As Picasso put it: Good artists copy; great artists steal! 

Here are 2 no work experience resume samples you can borrow ideas from:

Business Student Resume Sample

High-school Student Resume Sample

Create a Matching Cover Letter

All done with your resume?

It’s not over yet. You need to write a cover letter to go with it.

A cover letter is a single-page letter that accompanies your resume and is part of your job application.

Look at it this way: your resume describes your experiences, and your cover letter explains (in simple words) how they’re relevant to the job.

Now, here’s a quick infographic on what to include in a cover letter:

Finally, as with everything else in your resume, make sure to keep your cover letter relevant, short, and concise.

The hiring manager doesn’t have time to read an autobiography, they’ll only review your cover letter for a few minutes. 

There’s a lot more to creating a good cover letter than what we just explained.

For a complete, all-you-need-to-know walk-through, check out our Complete Guide on How to Write a Cover Letter !

Key Takeaways

...and that’s a wrap!

At this point, you should know everything there is to know about writing a killer no-experience resume.

Just to keep things fresh, though, let’s quickly go through everything we’ve learned so far:

• When creating your no-experience resume, use the reverse-chronological format.
• You can create a killer no-experience resume by emphasizing your education instead. Include relevant internships, soft & hard skills, and projects.
• Other sections you can include on your resume are hobbies & interests, languages, certifications, or achievements.
• Keep all the content on your resume clear, precise, and relevant. Use bullet points for all your descriptions.
• After you’re done with your resume, you want to write an awesome cover letter that goes with it. The cover letter is a one-page letter that tells the story behind your resume content and reemphasizes why you’re a great fit for the job.

Related Resume Examples

• Internship Resume
• High School Resume
• Research Assistant Resume
• College Resume
• Students and Graduates Resume
• Teacher Resume

Recommended Readings:

• 43+ Resume Tips and Tricks to Land Your Next Job in 2024
• 20+ One-Page Resume Templates [Free Download]
• 35+ Common Interview Questions and Answers [Complete List]

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13 Tips on how to write a CV when you have no experience

Writing your first CV is the integral first step of your job search. Your CV is the most important part of any job application and a crucial marketing tool for you and your abilities. For job seekers with little or no work experience, however, writing a CV is daunting. Even accomplished professionals can have difficulty showcasing their employability on a CV, and this challenge is much greater for students and recent graduates without work history to display.

Recommended links:

• Our collection of 500+ professional resume examples .
• Our gallery of 20+ downloadable resume templates .

Fortunately, there are several tricks and tips that new job seekers can use to create a great CV irrespective of their experience level. Whether you are a high school student, a college student, or a recent graduate, these strategies will help you to create a CV that stands out!

• Writing your first CV

As a first-time job seeker, your CV will have some differences from a typical CV. Whereas job seekers with several years of experience will highlight work accomplishments and allow the education and non-work experience sink to the bottom of the CV, newer job seekers can have these fields take precedence. Further, new job seekers can be content with a single page CV, while more experienced professionals may want to use up to two pages.

Besides these small differences, however, good advice for one job seeker is usually good advice for the other. The principles of good resume writing remain the same. Instead of thinking of your CV as merely a list of your previous work and despairing that you have nothing to write about, think of it as a marketing tool. It is a document that can show that you are dedicated, hardworking, and enthusiastic. It is a place to show that you can learn and improve and that you will be a great asset to the company you are applying to. Just because you haven’t had a job yet doesn’t mean you won’t make a great employee.

For a more detailed look at writing a CV, please take a look at our resume guide . For more specific tips for writing a CV with no experience, please read on!

• How do I write a CV with no experience?

To write a great CV with no experience, look at the job description and the follow these tips:

• Find projects and past education relevant to the job description and add it to your CV
• Next, writing a CV objective that summarizes relevant skills you have and what makes you extremely motivated to apply for the job.
• Use a functional CV layout to highlight the right information to the hiring manager.
• In the work experience section, add an entry for a relevant project and describe it in 4-5 bullet points.
• How can a student make a CV with no experience?

As a student, add your relevant coursework and project to your CV to compensate for the lack of experience. Add a link to your project so that hiring managers can check them out and see if you qualify for the job.

• Writing a High School CV

If you are looking for work while still in high school, there is no need to worry about your lack of experience. As long as you are applying for entry level positions, employers will have realistic expectations about your experience level. A minimum-wage or seasonal student position will not have strict prerequisites. Further, employers hiring for those positions will likely have experience working with young people who are new to the job market

In fact, your lack of formal experience may be an asset. Employers filling entry level positions often prefer candidates with a shorter work history because more experienced candidates will be seen as ‘overqualified’, causing the employer to expect them to quit as soon as they can leverage that experience into a better opportunity.

This does not mean, however, that you can slack on your CV. You will still be facing plenty of competition and your CV needs to stand out among the other candidates with similar backgrounds.

Any experience counts

Though you may not have any formal work experience to showcase in your CV, there are still ways to market yourself and show that you are the right applicant for the job. For example, you can include informal jobs that you may have worked as a teen. Alison Doyle at The Balance recommends that you “include informal work like babysitting, pet sitting, lawn mowing, shoveling snow, or anything else you've done to earn money.” Odd jobs for friends and neighbours are perfectly acceptable additions to your CV and demonstrate your exposure to the working world.

These activities aren’t just fluff to fill out your CV or a substitute for ‘Experience’ in some conceptual sense. They show that you are a well-rounded, reliable person and indicate to employers that you will be a successful employee.

Join a club

Of course, the best cure for a blank resume is to gain some experience to fill it up with. This does not have to be work experience, however; instead, find something with a lower barrier to entry. There are plenty of non-work activities that will impress employers. As India Miraglia at FastWeb says, “Some activities obviously belong on a resume: math team, a sport, any community service.” According to Monster , “Your volunteer work, after-school programs, and extracurricular activities all tell potential employers about your ability to complete projects on time, work well with others, and stay organized.” Experience isn’t just work experience, it’s life experience.

To fill out your CV, join a club, volunteer with some student groups, or help to organize a local event. When employers are looking for experience, they don’t just want people who have held jobs before, they want people who have enthusiastically dedicated themselves to a shared goal, collaborated with other people, and achieved important things. The workplace isn’t the only location these tasks can be accomplished. Andrew Fennell, writing for The Guardian , recommends that you “start with your school or university and enquire as to whether they list any volunteering opportunities”, then try “contacting local businesses or charities to offer your services”. There are many organizations and groups who would appreciate a helping hand.

Don’t forget your awards and achievements

Employers know that young people often don’t have much experience, so it is no use trying to fool them. Instead of filling out your resume with exaggerated experience, try to emphasize your hireable qualities. If you have perfect attendance, or if teachers or mentors think you have “positive attitude or outstanding service”, feel free to mention that in your CV, says Alison Doyle at The Balance . Every little thing counts. According to FastWeb ’s Miraglia, “Every time you join a club, volunteer your time, or win an award you should write it down. Nothing is too small or insignificant.”

• Writing a College CV

A college student CV will be similar to a high school CV, as you likely still have little in the way of work experience. By now, however, you have probably taken some more advanced classes and gained experience working on larger projects. Further, if you are a recent graduate or are studying to work in a specialized field, you will need a CV that puts a stronger emphasis on your area of study. A college student’s CV should showcase academic achievements and participation in collaborative projects in lieu of professional experience.

Emphasize your studies

At this point in your life, most of your employable skills were probably gained via academic pursuits rather than professional ones, and your degree is likely the most employable thing about you. Because of this, your education should be front and centre in your CV.

List your degree, even if you have not yet finished (but be sure to note that your studies are ongoing). Don’t bother with class titles or course codes - as LiveCareer notes, “they will mean nothing to readers outside your university.” It is acceptable to add relevant areas of study, however, if certain classes or projects are applicable to the job you are pursuing. Kim Isaacs at Monster recommends that you also include “academic honors such as dean's list, distinctions such as summa cum laude, scholarships and other awards”, as well as your GPA (if it is high!).

Focus on projects

As a student, you likely do not have much in the way of on-the-job experience. Because of this, you will not be able to give your work history much emphasis in your CV. A workaround, recommended by Resume Companion , is to “Swap the Professional Experience section for a Major Projects section.” What this means is you can use important projects from your academic career as evidence of your skills instead of examples drawn from past jobs. This works best if your studies are directly related to the job you are applying to.

Similarly, Erik Episcopo at PopSugar recommends adding a Major Achievements section. This can include noting that you “participate in student government, organize an event, present a project at a conference, volunteer, or write for the school paper”. There are plenty of ways to build your skillset and accomplish important things right on campus. Don’t let your lack of professional experience distract you from the successes you have achieved at school.

Show your experience wisely

As a college student, you have probably had a job or two by now, whether a summer job or something part-time. However, it is likely an unskilled job that is not relevant to the positions you are now seeking, and as such should not be emphasized heavily. One way around this, as recommended by Deborah Federico at Vault , is to “break your experience section in two: Relevant Experience and Other Experience”. This way, your irrelevant part time job won’t get top billing in your Work Experience section. If all of your experience is unrelated, however, this may not be an issue. “At this point in your career, employers will view any work experience as a testament to your dependability and strong work ethic, even if the experience is in a different industry”, says Isaacs . She continues, “When describing unrelated jobs, keep the descriptions to a minimum. For example, if you waited tables to help pay for college but your goal is software engineering, you don't need to provide a description of your day-to-day food-service responsibilities.”

• Customize your CV

You simply can’t rely on a single CV for your entire job search. Different positions will have different requirements, and your CV needs to reflect the specific needs outlined by the job posting.

To customize your CV, use phrases and keywords found in the job posting to describe your skills and experience. This doesn’t mean you can lie – everything you include in your CV must be true – it means that your CV should be tailored specifically to each application.

For example, if you are a college student seeking an internship in your field of study, your education is very relevant and should feature prominently in your CV. The skills and experience you focus on will likely be drawn from your academic projects. If, however, you are a college student looking for part-time work in an unrelated field, your education can take a back seat to more relevant work experience.

For more tips on customizing your CV, you may want to take a look at our guide to customizing your CV .

• Use a cover letter

Make sure you send a cover letter with your CV! Despite not having relevant experience (or any experience at all), you may well be the right person for this job. Your cover letter is where you can demonstrate this outside of the rigid structure of a CV. As Lily Zhang at The Muse writes, “The cover letter is the perfect opportunity for you to connect the dots between the company’s needs and the skills you’ve built across your eclectic career.”

For more tips on writing a cover letter, you may want to read our cover letter guide .

• Keep it neat and professional

Your CV should be just as neat and professional as a CV for someone who has been in the workforce for years. Your inexperience is not an excuse for an unorganized or unprofessional CV. To ensure that your CV is organized and professional, you may want to read our CV layout guide , and be sure to follow these tips:

• Use bullet points: Bullet points are neat and make it easier for employers to quickly scan your CV for important details.
• Proofread: A spelling error can be fatal to your application. Don’t let simple errors get in the way of your dream job.
• Use a nice template: Your CV should be eye-catching and easy for your employer to read.
• Contact info: Don’t forget to include your phone number and email address so that potential employers can contact you with ease. Still using that embarrassing email address that you made when you were a kid? Time to update it to a simple variation of your name or initials.

Community Success Manager & CV Writing Expert

Ben is a writer, customer success manager and CV writing expert with over 5 years of experience helping job-seekers create their best careers. He believes in the importance of a great resume summary and the power of coffee.

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7 Tips for writing a CV with no experience

Worried about writing a CV with no experience? Have no fear – the process of writing a CV is rather a fun one. It's all about reminding yourself, and discovering for the first time, your unique qualities.

Refer to this guide and ace the CV writing process – you’ll quickly discover that you have more experience than you realise.

Read on to find out how to write a CV with no experience!

How to write a CV with no experience in 7 steps

If you’re a fresh graduate with no work experience yet, don’t worry - there are several ways to sell yourself regardless. We’ve come up with 7 steps for writing the perfect CV:

1. Identify your most impressive attributes

Start by sitting down and listing all the things you’re good at, even if you don’t have a lot of work experience.

Know how to make a great goal assist on your football team? Then you know how to work as a team. Enjoy baking for your friends and family? That shows creativity and initiative.

2. Add a cover letter

A cover letter or personal statement is an excellent addition to any CV, particularly if you’re a graduate and don’t have tonnes of professional experience. So, introduce yourself and state your career objectives in relation to the job vacancy.

3. Show off your skills instead of work experience

Worried about a non-existent employment section on your CV? Then create a skills-based CV template, and list some that you’ve developed.

Do some research into valuable skills for employers: such as communication, integrity, teamwork and creativity and back them up with evidence from your hobbies and educational history. Simple!

4. Don’t overlook your practical skills

You may be forgetting some of the most obvious skills that you take for granted. If you speak another language or have a full driving licence, put it in there.

Digital natives also downplay the importance of being a social media or computer programme whiz, which is particularly important in the workplace these days.

5. List your degree near the top of your CV

Don’t be afraid to play around with the structure of your graduate CV to sell yourself better. Instead of listing the employment section right at the top, include your recently acquired degree and a skills section.

6. Include extra-curricular activities

Any experience is valuable, including any volunteering or student engagement you took part in at uni. Just because you weren’t paid, doesn’t mean it isn’t valuable!

7. Make it yours

Your CV should be unique, just like yourself. If you competed in a chess championship, or once did a skydive for charity, you should include it. It’s sure to make you memorable.

Got some ideas on how to sell yourself? Bookmark this guide on how to write a CV with no experience and get ready to write a killer resume. Find more graduate CV advice on the graduate-jobs website.

Ready to go and apply for a job? Check out all our internships and graduate jobs here.

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How to List Research Experience on Your Resume

Applying for a role that requires research skills? Here’s how to list your research experience on a resume, with examples you can follow.

3 years ago   •   7 min read

Research experience isn’t just for science and academia. Research is a valuable skill that’s required for a number of roles and industries, which means it almost certainly has a place on your resume. And no — that doesn’t mean writing “research” in your skills section and moving on.

Why you should list research experience on your resume

If you’re applying for a job that involves research, listing research experience is a no-brainer. Research-specific positions, scientific jobs like Research Assistants , Lab Assistants or Technicians, graduate school applications, and most jobs in academia all require evidence of research skills. Even outside these positions, research experience demonstrates valuable transferable skills, like critical thinking and attention to detail . Which is not to say that you need to include research experience on every resume — if it makes you a stronger candidate, include it, but if it isn’t relevant and doesn’t add anything else to your candidacy, leave it off.

Research experience resume example

Before we dive right in, here's a sample resume that emphasizes research skills. You can use this as a template or as inspiration to write your own resume from scratch.

Download: PDF | Google Docs

How to list research experience in your resume

Like a lot of desirable skills, research is a soft skill , meaning it’s not something you can claim as an objective fact on your resume without backing it up. What you can do instead is prove it — what previous role involved a lot of research? What resume accomplishments do you have that highlight your research experience? Showing how you used research skills in action is the best way to demonstrate the value you could bring to the company and role you’re applying for.

There are a number of ways you can highlight research experience on your resume:

In a dedicated section

In your work experience, in your education section, listing research publications, in a projects section, in your skills section, in your resume summary.

Let's take a look at each of these options in a little more depth. But first, let's look at an annotated example to help set the context.

If you come from a research background, you might want to title your work experience ‘Research.’ Alternatively, you could create two experience sections — one titled ‘Work Experience’ and one titled ‘Research Experience’ — if you also have a lot of non-research experience but want to highlight your most relevant experience first. You can go into more detail when applying for a research-focused role by describing the project and specifying the nature of the research and your role in it.

More information: How to title different sections of your resume

Including research experience in your main work experience section is appropriate if it was paid work or if it was your most recent and relevant experience. List the employer — for example, the university or research department — job title, dates, and accomplishments, just like you would any other work experience.

More information: How to list your work experience on your resume

If you’re a current student or recent graduate, you can list your education section at the top of your resume. You can also make this section a little more comprehensive if you don’t have a lot of work experience, by including things like awards, coursework, and academic research.

If you undertook research as part of your studies and it demonstrates skills relevant to the job you’re applying for, list your research accomplishments in bullet points under the education section of your resume.

More information: The must-haves when writing your education on your resume

If you have a lot of publications that came out of your research, and you want to draw attention to them — and if they’re relevant to the job you’re applying for — consider creating a separate publications section . Formal publications like these are an excellent way to add credibility to your research experience.

List each publication in a new bullet point with the title, year, and name of the magazine, website, or journal. Academic publications can be listed more formally if it’s relevant, like if you’re applying for graduate school or a role in academia.

When it comes to listing research on your resume, like other soft skills, you need to show you’ve used this skill in your previous roles by showcasing your research related accomplishments. Upload your resume to the tool below to find out if your resume highlights your most relevant research experience and achievements.

If your research experience is less extensive or wasn’t quite relevant enough to include alongside your work experience or education, you can still highlight it in a projects section. Keep this brief and include 1-2 bullet points showcasing your key research accomplishments.

More information: How to list projects on a resume

Research skills can go in your skills section — as long as they’re hard skills. Steer clear of listing generic skills like “Research” — instead, use our keyword finder to look for relevant skills and keywords and include specific hard skills like data analysis, project management, software proficiency, and certifications.

You can also use the skills search tool below to get a list of hard skills relevant to the research-focused role you’re applying for.

More information: How to write a resume skills section

If you’re applying for a position where research experience is essential, consider emphasizing your experience by including a short resume summary at the top of your resume. This should include the title of the job you’re applying for and a brief overview of your background and key skills.

More information: Generate a summary for your resume

Examples of listing research experience on your resume

No matter where you choose to include it, always list research experience in concise, accomplishment-focused bullet points . These should follow the structure of action verb + what you did + what the result was. Here are some examples of resume bullet points you can use or modify to suit your own research experiences.

Highlight research projects

• Assisted with cell development research projects as part of the Leukemia Research team — identifying cell changes, determining cell counts and coulter counters with 98% accuracy.

If you have significant research experience, describe it! The more relevant it is to the position you’re applying for, the more detail you can go into. Make sure to specify exactly what stages of research you worked on and what your contribution was.

Mention awards for your research

• Awarded “Total Quality Award” in recognition of consistent high standards of quality work for research excellence (only 3 awarded in class of 500).

If the high quality of your work has been acknowledged by an award, early promotion , or similar outside recognition, include it! In addition to the name of the award or accolade, don’t forget to specify context (e.g. 'out of class of 500 people' to increase its credibility.

Demonstrate technical expertise

• Created over 75 3D models with CAD tools such as Solidworks and ANSYS.

If you have experience with specific software or tools that you’ll be using in the position you’re applying for, include a bullet point accomplishment specifying how you’ve used them. While this isn't direct 'research' experience, it uses tools that are relevant to research projects — this is a good way of showing that you have research skill sets without having formal research experience.

Use 'research-focused' action verbs

• Researched and edited two articles and one book chapter on prenatal substance abuse, policy implication of Human Genome Project.

Use action verbs like "Researched" or "Scoured" which clearly emphasize research skills. In some cases (like in this example), you can list publications in your bullet points itself. If you’ve authored academic papers, books, or articles, this is a great way to show the validity and importance of your research.

Include accomplishments related to research studies

• Oversaw screening and recruitment of over 100 participants to study, liaised with laboratory personnel and site coordinators to ensure study is completed on time with 100% success.

Not all research positions involve pure research. Make sure you highlight appropriate related accomplishments, like managing research study participant data and enrolments or managing a team of research assistants.

Include accomplishments relating to research in your field

• Conducted legal research; organized and analyzed data and evidence for over 50 cases annually.

If research is part of the job description, make sure you include at least one bullet point highlighting how you’ve used those skills in the past. Including metrics, like the number of cases you’ve researched, contextualizes your accomplishments and helps them stand out.

• Conducted marketing research for both buy-side and sell-side resulting in 15 strong leads.

Research isn’t just limited to science and academia. Demonstrate your skills in action by the context and end results of your research, like the number of leads it generated or the increase in sales figures.

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How to write a CV with no experience

Build a convincing personal statement

Don’t let a blank work history hold you back. You can still create a compelling CV that showcases your potential and helps land you an interview. Think like the employer: what are they looking for? What skills and qualities are valued in their industry or workplace? How can you prove you're the right fit, even without traditional work experience?

In this guide, we’ll explore how to highlight your skills, showcase your achievements in other areas of your life, and help you create a CV that stands out from the crowd. With our online CV builder , user-friendly tools and customisable CV templates , we’ll also walk you through how to craft a CV that highlights your skills, achievements, and enthusiasm for the role, even if your work history is a blank canvas.

How to structure a CV with no experience

Before we get started, let's take a quick look at the New Zealand job market. Employers in Aotearoa typically value a well-structured, concise, and results-oriented CV. They're looking for candidates who can articulate their skills and clearly demonstrate their potential to contribute to the company.

Ultimately, employers want to quickly understand your most relevant skills and experiences, so avoid lengthy paragraphs and unnecessary details. Instead, use clear headings, bullet points and data, such as numbers, percentages and statistics, to help showcase your abilities and achievements.

Additionally, potential employers also value interpersonal skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Don't hesitate to showcase these alongside your technical skills . It’s important to remember that New Zealand CVs typically differ from CVs used in other countries. For example, if you’re crafting a CV for European employers , it’s important to review how CVs in Europe are generally structured.  While CVs in New Zealand generally emphasise transferable skills and personal attributes, CVs in other countries, often called resumes, may focus more heavily on a chronological work history. It’s always important to do your research to ensure your CV is tailored to the specific country and industry you are applying to.

Remember, your CV isn't a one-size-fits-all document. Every time you apply for a job, take the time to read the job description and tailor your CV carefully. Highlight skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role, using keywords and phrases from the job description where possible. Tailoring your CV shows employers you've done your research and possess the qualities they're looking for in a candidate.

Essential sections of a CV

To begin, a well-crafted CV should typically include the following sections:

• Contact Details : Name, contact information, and, optionally, a link to your LinkedIn profile or online portfolio. This information is usually in the header of your CV. Ensure the information provided is up-to-date, accurate and professional.
• Personal statement : Include a brief summary highlighting your career goals, key skills, and enthusiasm in 2-4 sentences. It’s your chance to make a strong first impression and capture the reader’s attention.
• Education : List your qualifications, including the institution, location, and dates attended (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Marketing, University of Auckland). You can also list academic achievements such as scholarships, awards, or outstanding grades if relevant.
• Skills : Showcase the skills that are most relevant to the role you’re applying for.  Back these up with examples from your studies, volunteer work, or personal experiences, and try to include a mix of both technical skills (e.g., programming languages, data analysis) and interpersonal skills (e.g., negotiation, communication and conflict resolution skills).
• Achievements and awards : This section is your opportunity to spotlight your accomplishments. Include any awards, scholarships, prizes, or extracurricular achievements demonstrating your abilities, commitment, and initiative. Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Increased sales by 15% in six months" or "Led a team of 10 volunteers to organise a successful charity event").
• Volunteer work : Even unpaid experiences can be valuable assets to your CV! Detail any volunteer roles, community involvement, or personal projects that showcase your skills, initiative, and commitment to making a difference. Be sure to highlight the skills you developed and the impact you made in these roles.
• Interests and hobbies : While optional, this section can provide employers with a glimpse into your personality and passions outside of work. Consider including hobbies or interests that align with the company culture or demonstrate desirable qualities like teamwork, creativity, or perseverance. For more professional occupations, including doctors or lawyers , it’s generally best to omit this section.
• References : List two or three references who can vouch for your character and abilities. It’s important to note that many employers will ask for this later in the employment process, so this section is also optional.

Choose a professional design layout appropriate to the industry and job role you’re applying for. Ensure it is well-organised, easy to read, and visually appealing.

Include irrelevant or outdated information. Your CV should focus on experiences and skills relevant to the job you're applying for.

How to craft a CV for a first job

Writing a CV or cover letter for your first job can feel challenging, but it's a crucial step towards launching your career. Remember, even without extensive professional experience, you possess valuable skills and qualities that employers are looking for. Your first CV is an opportunity to showcase your potential and make a lasting impression.

You can start by highlighting your education and listing your academic qualifications, including relevant coursework, projects, or academic achievements. Emphasise any skills or knowledge gained through your studies that align with the specific job requirements.  Next, showcase any transferable skills acquired through volunteer work, extracurricular activities, or hobbies. Did you manage a school club, organise a community event, or tutor a fellow student? These experiences demonstrate valuable skills that are highly sought-after by employers like leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. 

If you’ve completed any internships , be sure to highlight them, focusing on the responsibilities you held and the skills you developed. Even brief professional experiences can demonstrate your work ethic and willingness to learn. 

Finally, use your personal statement to briefly introduce yourself and articulate your career aspirations. Keep it concise and focused, highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences.

Be bold and ask for help!

Seek feedback from teachers, career advisors, or family and friends with experience in your desired field. They can offer valuable insights and suggestions for improving your CV.

Showcase your potential

Your CV is your chance to stand out to employers, so use it to tell your unique story and demonstrate your potential to contribute to the company. Think of it as your blank canvas, where you can vividly outline your unique journey, showcasing your diverse experiences, skills, and untapped potential.

Each element of your CV—from your academic achievements to your extracurricular activities and personal projects—contributes to a mosaic that reflects your character and capabilities. It’s also important to emphasise your eagerness to contribute your unique perspective and fresh ideas to the company's goals. 

By crafting a thoughtful and engaging CV that captures your potential, you'll capture employers' attention and convince them that you're a valuable asset ready to make a meaningful impact. Here are our top tips to help you stand out from the crowd:

• Quantify your achievements : Numbers speak volumes! Whenever possible, transform generic statements into impactful metrics. Instead of simply stating, "volunteered at a local kōhanga reo," go a step further and quantify your impact: "Volunteered at a local shelter, providing direct support to over 50 children and assisting in fundraising efforts that raised $2,000 for essential resources." By quantifying your achievements, you provide concrete evidence of your capabilities and the value you can bring to a company or organisation.
• Choose an appropriate design layout : A professionally formatted CV is like a well-designed storefront—it draws people in and makes them want to learn more. Don't be afraid to get creative with different fonts, colours, and layouts to create a CV that reflects your personality and professionalism. Consider using a simple or modern template with subtle visual elements to highlight key sections and make your information easy to digest. Remember, a visually engaging CV can leave a lasting impression on potential employers.
• Proofread carefully : A typo or grammatical error can undermine your credibility and professionalism, and have your CV sent straight to the rejection pile. Treat your CV like a prized possession and proofread it multiple times. Look for inconsistencies, awkward phrasing, and errors that might have slipped through the cracks. Remember, don’t hesitate to ask a trusted friend, family member, or career advisor to review your CV. Their fresh perspective can catch errors you might have overlooked.
• Tailor your cover letter to the role : Your cover letter is your chance to forge a connection with potential employers. Don't just reiterate the information on your CV; use your cover letter to elaborate on your skills, experiences, and passion for the role. Explain why you're the ideal candidate, highlighting specific examples of how your qualifications align with the job requirements. Address the company directly, demonstrating your research and understanding of their values and goals. A well-tailored cover letter can be the key to unlocking the door to your dream job.

According to the 2023 Madison Recruitment Employment Market Report , job boards were the most popular channel for attracting candidates in New Zealand. This demonstrates the significant role online platforms play in connecting employers and potential employees!

Highlight transferable skills

Crafting a successful CV is essential for landing a job; and it doesn't have to be intimidating. Even without extensive work experience, you likely possess valuable transferable skills gained from various other areas of your life. 

These can include:

• Communication skills : Have you given presentations in school, led a group project, or written for the student newspaper?
• Leadership skills : Have you been a team captain, student council leader, or organised events?
• Problem-solving skills : Have you tackled challenges in your studies, volunteer work, or personal life?
• Teamwork skills : Have you collaborated on group projects, played team sports, or participated in community activities?
• Language skills : Are you fluent in multiple languages, or have you studied a foreign language in school?

The critical thing to remember is that the skills you include should be tailored to the job role you’re applying for. Remember to research the company and the specific position to identify the most relevant skills and keywords to incorporate into your CV. 

Highlight any specific achievements or experiences that demonstrate your proficiency in these areas. This will help your CV stand out to potential employers and increase your chances of landing an interview. 

Use action verbs to describe your skills and accomplishments. For example, instead of saying “responsible for,” say “managed” or “led.”

Simply list your skills. Provide specific examples of how you’ve demonstrated these skills in different situations with data and metrics when possible. 

A well-crafted personal statement can be a game-changer, setting you apart from the competition and leaving a lasting impression on potential employers. It's your chance to go beyond the bullet points of your CV and showcase your unique personality, drive, and suitability for the role. 

In a few concise yet impactful sentences, highlight your career aspirations, outlining the key skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate. Begin by expressing your enthusiasm for the position and company, demonstrating your genuine interest and excitement for the role.

Conclude your personal statement by reiterating your excitement for the opportunity and expressing your confidence in your ability to contribute meaningfully to the company's success. By crafting a compelling personal statement, you can transform your application from a mere document into a captivating introduction to your professional story, leaving a lasting impression on potential employers and opening doors to exciting career opportunities.

Here's an example of a great personal statement from our Internship CV Writing Guide :

“Enthusiastic and efficient student studying towards a Bachelor of Communication at The University of Auckland. Passionate about creating strong customer relationships, effective communication and serving the community. Hard-working and skilled at social media management and engagement.”

Highlight your educational expertise

For graduates fresh out of uni or students still hitting the books, your educational experience is your golden ticket to getting noticed by employers. It's not just about listing your qualifications; it's about showcasing your academic achievements and how they translate to real-world skills relevant to the job position. 

Kick things off with your most recent qualifications, mentioning the institution, degree, and any impressive grades or awards you received. Then, dive deeper into relevant coursework, projects, or research demonstrating your expertise and passion for your field or industry. 

Remember, even for applicants without extensive on-the-job experience, your education can be a powerful indicator of your potential to learn, grow, and add value to the workplace. Check out this example of a great education section from our Student CV Example Guide :

Bachelor of Arts, University of Waikato, Hamilton  February 2013 - June 2017

Outline your volunteering experience:

In New Zealand, lending a hand is practically a national pastime. Kiwis love a good volunteer ready to muck in, and employers are no exception. Even if your volunteer experience isn't directly related to your dream job, it speaks volumes about your character and work ethic. 

It can also testify to your character, passion, and willingness to learn. Volunteering experience shows employers that you're not just about clocking in and out; you're invested in making a difference in the community.

Whether you've dedicated countless hours to coaching a local netball team, organised a community event that brought people together, or spent your weekends sorting donations at a charity shop, these experiences reveal a side of you that goes beyond the qualifications listed on your CV.

Don’t underestimate the power of volunteering – it's not just about helping others; it's about unlocking your own potential and showcasing your true worth to future employers.

Keywords are key! 

Tailor your CV to each job application by incorporating relevant keywords from the job description. This will help your CV get noticed by both hiring managers and applicant tracking systems (ATS) . Do your research and sprinkle those keywords throughout your CV. When in doubt, copy the job description into a word cloud generator, like wordclouds.com , to visually identify the most frequently used terms.

Choose the right CV format 

For those with limited work experience, choosing the right CV format is essential. Instead of focusing on the traditional reverse-chronological format, which prioritises work history, consider alternative formats that highlight your skills and potential.

One great option is the functional or skills-based CV format. This format focuses on your transferable skills, such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, or technical skills . You can list your skills at the top of your CV, followed by relevant experiences that demonstrate those skills, such as volunteer work, academic projects, or extracurricular activities. This format lets you showcase your strengths and potential contributions, even without a long history of work experiences.

Another option is the hybrid or combination CV format, which combines elements of both chronological and functional formats. You can start by listing your most relevant skills, followed by a brief chronological work history section. 

A combination CV format allows you to showcase your skills while still providing some context for your professional experiences. Since you’re trying to write a CV with no work experience, a functional or skills-based CV is usually the best option for candidates in your position. 

Ultimately, the best CV format for you will depend on your specific situation and the job you're applying for. Consider your strengths and weaknesses, the requirements of the job, and the overall impression you want to make on employers. 

Feel free to experiment with different CV formats and see what works best for you. With a well-crafted CV, you can showcase your potential and land the job you’ve set your sights on. 

Get a second opinion

Your CV is a work in progress, not a one-and-done deal. Once you've poured your heart and soul into crafting it, don't hesitate to share it with trusted friends, family members, or even your former lecturers. 

A fresh pair of eyes can work wonders, catching those pesky typos or grammatical errors that might have slipped through the cracks. They can also offer valuable feedback on the overall flow, structure, and clarity of your CV, ensuring it's easy to read and understand.

But don't stop there! Take advantage of the resources available to students and job seekers. Your university or polytechnic likely has a career services department with knowledgeable advisors eager to help you succeed. 

These professionals can offer expert feedback, tailored advice, and even mock interviews to prepare you for the job hunt. They can help you identify your strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, ensuring your CV shines brightly in the competitive job market. 

Remember, constructive criticism is your friend, not your foe. Embrace feedback as a valuable tool for growth and refinement, and watch your CV transform into a powerful document that opens doors to exciting opportunities.

Key Takeaways 

• Think like an employer : Understand the skills and qualities valued in your industry and tailor your CV accordingly. Research companies and job roles thoroughly to identify the specific qualifications they’re after.
• Highlight transferable skills : Showcase skills gained from various experiences, such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving. Demonstrate how these skills can be applied to the workplace, providing specific examples whenever possible.
• Craft a compelling personal statement : Capture your enthusiasm and potential in a concise and impactful summary. Highlight your career goals, key skills, and passion for the industry to leave a lasting impression.
• Quantify your achievements : Use numbers and metrics to demonstrate your impact in various activities. Discuss measurable results to demonstrate your contributions.
• Showcase your potential : Highlight educational achievements, volunteer work, and personal projects to demonstrate your capabilities. Include details such as awards, certifications, or specific accomplishments that reflect your initiative and drive.
• Get creative : Use visually appealing formatting, but prioritise clarity and readability. Incorporate design elements strategically to enhance your CV's visual appeal while maintaining a professional tone.
• Proofread your CV : Ensure your CV is error-free and seek feedback from trusted sources. Ask friends, family, or career advisors to review your CV for grammar, spelling, and overall effectiveness.
• Tailor your CV to the job role : Connect your skills and experiences to the specific job requirements and showcase your enthusiasm for the role. Research the company and personalise your cover letter to demonstrate your interest.
• Reach out to professionals : Seek guidance from advisors and online resources for expert advice and support. Take advantage of workshops, career fairs, and online tools to enhance your job search strategies.

Remember, your CV is constantly evolving as you gain new experiences and skills. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different CV formats and seek feedback to ensure your CV effectively showcases your unique strengths and potential.

Are you eager to kickstart your career but feeling held back by a lack of work experience? Don't let that blank page intimidate you! Our online CV builder , you can craft a powerful CV that showcases your unique skills and potential. You don't have to do it alone. CVapp.nz is here to revolutionise your job search and take your CV to the next level.

How To Write A Killer CV When You Have No Experience

We’ve got top tips to help you nail your CV even without any experience. 

If you’re heading out into the world of work after you graduate, you might find writing a CV a little daunting. A recent Student Beans survey showed that 30% of you don’t feel confident applying for jobs. So it’s understandable. Especially when writing your first CV means you probably don’t have much work experience to include. But don’t stress. The point of a CV is to show your potential employer how much you can add to the company. While experience can help, it’s not always a deal breaker. 

From showcasing your achievements, discussing your hobbies and making sure your personal statement is a shining beacon of your brilliance, we’ve got all the tips to help you make sure your CV is fantastic, plus advice from Student Beans’ Head of Talent for boosting your CV. With, or without experience. 

In this article:

What do I need to include on my CV?

What about a skills-based cv.

• What to write on a personal profile

Top tips on writing a CV with no experience

There’s a few elements that make up a CV structure that you should include, including: 

• Contact details

Personal profile

• Experience*

*We know, we know, you don’t HAVE the experience. But bear with us. 

What contact details should I put on my CV?

Your contact details should be the first thing a recruiter or employer sees when they pick up your CV. So keep them brief and at the very top of your CV. Make sure you include:

• Phone number
• Email address

You don’t need to complicate it with any other information, and more commonly, employers would rather have as little information about you personally as possible, so they can remain unbiased. 

As long as you have a current email address and your phone number, then any potential employer can contact you about an interview. 

Your personal profile is exactly what it sounds like; it’s a snapshot of who you are, why you’re applying for this position and what makes you a good candidate for the role. They can be a little tricky to write so we’ve got you covered with tips later on in this article . 

Making your personal profile stand-out is really key, especially if you don’t have as much experience, as it’s the only part of your CV that you can really highlight how well you’d be suited to the role. 

If you haven’t got any experience, then making education a key area of your CV is a great way to stand out. 

You can use this space to highlight the best parts of your degree, including any relevant or high scoring assignments or exams. Pulling out transferable skills can be a breeze when it comes to education. Applying for an analyst job with an English degree? Think about all the times you had to analyse 19th century texts to understand the deeper meaning. It’s all relevant. 

Wizard with Excel? Presentation pro? Think about the areas you already have skills in, and make a point of showcasing these. Potential employers will love to see that you’re proactive in advancing your skills and can start to use them from the off-set in a role. 

Top tip: look at the job description and responsibilities you’re applying for. Does it pinpoint any skills you might need to do the job well? 

So we know that you’re here because you might not have experience and need help with your CV. But experience doesn’t just equal employment. Experience can include:

• Part-time work
• Volunteering
• Work experience
• Clubs/hobbies/interests

You want to be able to show how any life experience can be used for those valuable transferable skills. Highlighting key responsibilities and any achievements will show how these could apply to employment.

Another option to explore if you don’t have a lot of experience, is to structure your CV a little differently, and make skills the priority. After your education section, you list your skills and why they’re suitable for the role you’re applying for. 

This could look like:

Effective communicator

• Learned how to speak to a range of different customers in my part-time job
• Gained confidence public speaking during my rugby awards ceremony
• Worked in groups for university assignments, often taking a lead role in presenting

What to write on a personal profile on a CV?

Personal profiles are something of an artform. They are there to sum you up as a person and why you, as a person, are so well suited to the job role with the skills you have. All in a paragraph or two. So no pressure, right? 

Nailing your personal profile is a great way to capture the attention of any potential employers or recruiters, as it’s one of the first things they’ll read on your CV anyway. So take your time to make it the best it can be. You should:

• Include industry or job-specific words to describe yourself. If the role requires a lot of public speaking, describing yourself as confident and articulate is a good way to show how you could do the role effectively. We’re here to help if you’re not sure what you’re going to do with your degree .
• Avoid cliche or jargon – it’s easy to call yourself hardworking, but if you don’t show HOW you’re hardworking then it’s meaningless, and employers will see right through it
• Keep it short and sweet. You’ll go into detail further on in your CV so don’t write an essay for your personal profile. 

Now you’ve got an idea of what to include on your CV, it’s time to get writing. But we’ve got some top tips for writing your CV if you have limited experience, so no need to panic. Get ready to get employed. 

Highlight your transferable skills with hobbies and interests

You’d be so surprised how many skills you develop through organised clubs or even your interests. These are called your transferable skills, and they’re crucial to having a fantastic CV . Student Beans’ Head of Talent, Shannon O’Dowd says, “look at the job description to see where you have transferable skills that can match up to the role. This includes shouting about your proudest achievements too”. If you’re the captain of a sports team, you’ve already got leadership skills down. Love to vlog your life in your spare time? Think of all the social media knowledge you have already! If you travelled during your gap year, you’ve already shown that you love to learn new things and have an open mind. 

Reorganise your CV

You don’t need to follow a standard structure of how you think a CV should look, especially if you’re lacking in the experience department. Shannon says, “adding flair to your CV can really help it stand out, especially in creative roles, so let your personality shine through your application”.

Make your CV work for you and highlight the areas that you’re proud of. So this could mean adding your hobbies to the top of your CV, really working on your personal profile and shouting about your fantastic education achievements. 

Make sure your personal statement shines

If you don’t have much experience to show on your CV, attaching a personal statement means you can show off all of your achievements in a way that reflects you in the best possible light. Shannon says “bring your personality to your personal statement, employers read hundreds of these so your tone and style can have a big impact on whether your statement makes a lasting impression”.

Aim for no more than one page, as you want the potential employer to stay engaged with your words. Use your personal statement to elaborate on your CV especially with how your education, hobbies and skills help make you a great candidate for the role you’re applying for. Shannon adds, “and don’t forget to check your spelling and grammar! It seems simple and obvious but it’s so often overlooked!”

Think about trying to gain more experience

If you’re finding it really hard to pull out any kind of experience you can use, then why not try and build on your experience before applying for jobs? 

Volunteer work is a great way to build on your experience and shows willingness to step out of your comfort zone too. Charity jobs, animal shelters, food banks all rely on volunteers to help them out. Even music festivals can be a great way to get some experience if you apply to be a steward, although these can be competitive! 

Delve right into the best student discounts to find your perfect interview outfit . 

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How to Write a Beginner Resume Summary with No Experience [Examples]

Customers Interviewed by:

When you’re diving into the job market with limited experience, writing a strong resume is key to landing your dream job. A well-written resume starts with a resume summary —the elevator pitch that shows the reader your greatest accomplishments, skills, and passions. A beginner summary for your resume is the starting point to wow-ing the hiring team and proving you’re the best candidate for the job.

An entry-level or beginner resume isn’t about listing everything you’ve accomplished or can do. Instead, it’s a strategic dance of weaving together your enthusiasm, soft skills, and unique experience. Then, you connect it to the job description and what the hiring manager is looking for.

• What a resume summary is.
• The critical components of a resume summary.
• Step-by-step instructions on how to write an entry-level or beginner summary for resumes.
• Examples and templates of successful resume summaries.

Understanding the resume summary for beginners

Your resume summary is a snapshot of your professional life—only 3 to 5 sentences—curated with each job description in mind. Job seekers include their professional title, years of experience, skills , and measurable achievements to entice the recruiter to read the rest of the resume.

As you navigate the job search, you’ll see how your resume summary is one of the most valuable sections of your resume.

What is an entry-level resume summary?

When you’re an entry-level applicant, the snapshot summary likely isn’t full of accolades, impactful accomplishments, or advanced skills. Rather, an effective resume summary for a beginning job seeker highlights an eagerness to learn, adaptability, and growth potential.

For entry-level applicants, “It’s not just about bullet points and job titles; it’s about weaving together the threads of your journey, painting a picture of resilience, ambition, and growth,” says Harleny Vasquez , a visionary Career Coach and CEO of yourEVOLVEDmind. “It’s a chance to showcase not just what you’ve done, but who you are and where you’re headed. Each section is a story, each accomplishment a milestone on the path you’ve forged with passion and purpose.”

The purpose of an entry-level summary

A professional summary is the attention-grabbing highlight reel. A successful summary keeps the hiring team reading your resume to learn more about you. In a hot job market where standing out is critical, resume summaries can be a positive differentiator.

Resume summaries provide key context to your resume. It helps the hiring manager frame your candidacy in their mind—they learn why you’re applying, how your skill set translates to the job, and key accomplishments that show you off in the best light. Many other applicants are jumping from the resume headline into the work experience, losing out on the opportunity to capture the hiring team right away.

Want to see examples of resume summaries for any stage of your career? Read 86+ Resume Summary Examples to Inspire You

Resume summary vs. objective

Resume summary and resume objective are often used interchangeably, but the two are very different. They serve different purposes and are used to convey different types of information.

Resume objective

A resume objective states your career goals and the type of position you are seeking. It is forward-looking and focuses on what you want to achieve in your career.

Primarily, it includes your career aspirations and what you aim to contribute to the employer.

For example, a resume objective could say something like:

Seeking a position as a Marketing Coordinator to utilize my skills in digital marketing and content creation in a dynamic, growth-oriented company.

Recruiters and career coaches argue against the resume objective because it’s more focused on the applicant, rather than the company you’re applying to.

Kelli Hrivnak , Founder of the boutique recruitment firm, Knack Digital shares, “I never like to see a resume objective on a resume. An employer is seeking an employee who will solve their problem, as opposed to prioritizing the wants and needs of the applicant.”

Jazlyn Unbedacht , Resume Writer and LinkedIn Optimizer argues we should just get rid of resume objectives altogether. “I’m not sure why they ever were a thing to begin with. Harness expertise from other experiences in your life, like education, volunteer work, hobby pursuits, and more and use that to create a short summary of what you can bring to the table as an employee.”

Resume summary

A resume summary provides a brief overview of your professional background, highlighting your key achievements and skills. It is backward-looking, summarizing what you have already accomplished in your career.

The short paragraph includes your key qualifications, experience, and major achievements. A summary is designed to quickly give employers an idea of your expertise and the value you can bring to their organization.

Many entry-level applicants and those writing beginner summaries for their resumes tend to default to objectives. They worry they have nothing impressive to highlight in their summary.

But Kelli Hrivnak urges you to think outside the box. “For job seekers who don’t have relevant work experience, can you include other experience or skills acquired in your project work instead?”

For example, Kelli suggests writing something like:

Google-certified Marketing graduate with 4 months of experience as an Audience Development intern at a nationally recognized publication firm. Grew audience engagement on Facebook by 30% by developing social strategy and initiatives.

Key pieces of a beginner resume summary

Think of your resume summary like a formula. Just like a math equation has values that you need to solve the problem, your resume summary has critical components that make it impactful to the hiring team.

Follow the formula below to write a standout summary:

Versatile [Your Professional Title] with over [X Years] of experience in [Field/Role]. Skilled in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. Proven success in [Measurable Accomplishment 1] and [Measurable Accomplishment 2].

Tailor your resume summary

You can’t write your resume summary once and use it for every application. Your resume—including the summary—should be tailored to each job description.

To tailor your resume summary, you should read the job description closely and pick out keywords and skills to integrate into your resume. This process can take a few hours per job posting, but you can do it quickly with Jobscan’s resume optimization tools.

If you don’t have a resume and are starting from scratch, the Resume Builder tool can help you create a base resume, then you can move directly into Power Edit to tailor your resume to the job description.

Quantify your achievements

Numbers and percentages showing time or money saved, revenue generated, or team members managed can show the hiring team how you help an organization thrive, rather than telling them what you’ve done.

For example, you can write:

Boosted sales by 30% through innovative product displays and promotions, and successfully managed inventory turnover, reducing excess stock by 20%.

Use Power Words and Action Verbs

Boring word choices make it easy for the hiring team to gloss over your resume. Inspire emotion and paint a picture with the words you use. Ditch common resume words and use more powerful words instead.

Discover the best power words and action verbs to integrate into your resume: 500 Action Verbs to Use on Your Resume Today

Step-by-step guide to writing an entry-level resume summary

Even if you know the resume summary formula, how can you ensure you’re making a successful impact on the hiring team? There are a handful of steps you can follow to knock your resume summary out of the park every time.

Step 1: Do a self-assessment

Before you write your resume summary, you first have to have a firm understanding of your strengths, skill set, and achievements. Take time to think about a few dimensions of your professional journey.

Using education in your resume summary

Consider your degrees or certifications and any projects and coursework. If you’re short on hands-on experience, using experience from school or other learning can show off your experience and professional growth.

Draw on untraditional experience for your resume summary

When you’re writing a beginner summary for your resume, your experience is limited. But you can draw on volunteer work, part-time jobs, clubs, or even hobbies to link to skills the hiring manager is looking for.

Highlight your transferable skills in your summary

At the start of your career, highlight your transferable skills —or soft skills . These skills are interpersonal skills or behavioral traits you bring to every workplace. Unlike hard skills —job-specific technical skills—transferable skills are difficult to measure, but they’re still incredibly valuable at work.

Add metrics to your resume summary

Numbers and figures show concrete impact and quantify your contributions to an organization. You can use time-based metrics, efficiency metrics, growth comparisons, and more. If you’re a new grad or entering employment for the first time, draw on your other experiences of clubs, school, or volunteering to make an impact.

Increased readership by 15% during tenure as Editor-in-Chief of university magazine.

For more insights about adding metrics to your resume, read 67 Resume Accomplishments Examples to Show Your Value

Step 2: Conduct your research

To create an effectively optimized resume, you need to conduct research about the role, company, and industry.

• Dive deep into the job description : The job description always has insights into the responsibilities and qualities of the role. Often, there are details about the company’s values.
• Add the right keywords: By integrating keywords in your resume summary tailored to the company’s mission and values, you can make a powerful impression on the hiring team.
• Familiarize yourself with industry keywords, skills, and tools : Stay up to date on evolving trends and tools in your field to position yourself as the strongest candidate.

Power Edit features AI technology that not only scans your resume for keywords and skills, but provides ideas you can use to integrate them into your resume seamlessly.

Step 3: Draft your entry-level resume summary

Writing your beginner resume summary for an entry-level role can feel daunting, but you have more to offer an employer beyond traditional work experience. Think beyond your past roles and draw on other experiences to show off your value as a candidate.

Remember, you can use the following template to guide your writing:

Start with a strong introduction sentence

The first sentence needs to capture attention, so choose strong power verbs and open with the information you need the hiring manager to know.

Some examples of powerful resume summary openers include:

Recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from XYZ University, where I maintained a 3.8 GPA. Proven leadership skills as the President of the Business Club, organizing events attended by over 200 students. Passionate about project management, I completed a capstone project that improved campus event efficiency by 25%. Seeking an entry-level role in business operations.

Enthusiastic computer science graduate with hands-on experience in developing mobile apps as a hobby, resulting in over 10,000 downloads on the Google Play Store. Skilled in Java, Python, and Swift, with a keen interest in UI/UX design. Looking to leverage my self-taught programming skills and creativity in an entry-level software development position.

Dedicated environmental science graduate with a strong background in community service, having volunteered over 300 hours with the Green Earth Initiative. Led a tree-planting campaign that resulted in 1,000 new trees being planted in urban areas. Highly organized and committed to sustainability, seeking to start a career in environmental consulting.

Diligent Marketing graduate with over two years of part-time retail experience at ABC Store, where I consistently exceeded sales targets by 15%. Recognized for excellent customer service and awarded ‘Employee of the Month’ twice. Eager to apply my sales and marketing skills in an entry-level marketing role.

Versatile communications graduate with a strong foundation in public speaking and writing, honed through coursework and as a volunteer tutor at the local literacy center. Part-time experience as a social media coordinator, where I increased engagement by 40% across platforms. Adept at content creation and community engagement, seeking a role in public relations.

Recent graduate with a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology, combining academic excellence with leadership as the captain of the university soccer team. Coordinated training schedules and team-building activities, leading to a 30% improvement in team performance. Passionate about health and fitness, aiming to start a career in sports management.

Ambitious psychology graduate with hands-on research experience, having assisted in a faculty-led study on cognitive behavior that was published in a peer-reviewed journal. Strong analytical and statistical skills, with proficiency in SPSS. Seeking an entry-level research assistant role to further develop my expertise in psychological research.

Integrate keywords from the job description

A keyword-rich resume summary boosts your chances of showing up in ATS search results. The ATS , or applicant tracking system, houses every submitted resume for a job listing. When the hiring team looks for candidates to interview, the ATS helps them rank applicants based on keywords and skills from the job description.

“A professional summary is an amazing resource to optimize your resume with keywords and catch an employer’s attention,” claims Professional Resume Writer, Jazlyn Unbedacht .

Jobscan’s Power Edit can find keywords in the job description and help you find places to naturally integrate keywords. Below you can find an example of a keyword-rich resume summary example for inspiration.

Creative marketing graduate with strong skills in social media management and content creation . Successfully managed a university campaign that boosted social media engagement by 30%. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and familiar with SEO strategies . Seeking an entry-level marketing position to leverage creativity and analytical skills to support brand growth.

Avoid keyword stuffing. Adding keywords for the sake of having them can have a negative impact. If your summary isn’t authentic or personal and feels forced, your summary can be difficult to read. Strike a balance by finding other resume sections to integrate keywords.

Highlight your strengths

Your resume summary is the ideal place to humbly brag about your accomplishments . Stay honest and avoid embellishing, but put your best foot forward to make it impossible for the hiring manager not to invite you for an interview.

For example, include projects, assignments, or internships to make your beginner resume summary shine.

Natural leader and recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Management, achieving a 3.8 GPA. Led a student project team to complete a market analysis that was presented to local businesses, resulting in increased partnerships. Proficient in project management and team coordination. Seeking an entry-level management position to apply leadership and strategic planning skills to contribute to organizational success.

Use a resume summary generator

Include a resume summary, even when you have writer’s block. The resume summary generator in premium Power Edit can write the perfect resume summary, using content from your resume and keywords from the job description.

Here’s how it works.

If you don’t have a resume summary, you can go into the Editor and click “Generate Summary.” Using AI, the tool will write a customized resume summary highlighting all your key skills and accomplishments for the job. The AI draws on your education, skills, work experience, and certifications to create a tailored resume summary in seconds.

You can use the generated summary, or rephrase the summary until you find the variation you like best.

By the end, you’ll have an optimized resume to impress the hiring team and boost your chances of getting an interview invite.

Generate your resume summary in seconds with Power Edit and create a perfectly tailored resume for each job application.

Beginner summary for resume: Examples

Resume summary based on education

Recent high school graduate with a 3.8 GPA and a passion for technology. Completed a capstone project in computer science, developing an app that improved classroom attendance tracking by 20%. Seeking to apply technical skills and problem-solving abilities in a software development role.

Resume summaries based on volunteering

Enthusiastic volunteer with over 150 hours dedicated to community service at local food banks and shelters. Organized weekly meal distributions, aiding over 500 families. Passionate about social work and eager to contribute to a supportive team environment.

Multilingual individual fluent in English, Spanish, and French, with experience volunteering as a translator at community events. Assisted over 100 individuals in accessing services. Seeking to leverage language skills in a customer service or administrative role.

Community-focused graduate with a 3.9 GPA and extensive volunteer experience at local non-profits. Organized community clean-up events, improving local park conditions by 15%. Eager to bring organizational and community engagement skills to a professional setting.

Resume summaries based on certifications

Certified in Basic First Aid and CPR, with hands-on experience from part-time babysitting jobs. Known for reliability and excellent communication with parents. Managed schedules and provided educational activities for children, seeking to bring caregiving skills to a full-time position.

Certified in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript through online courses. Developed a personal website showcasing photography projects, increasing online portfolio traffic by 40%. Seeking to apply web development skills in a tech-related role.

Resume summary focused on extracurricular activities

Team-oriented individual with leadership experience as captain of the high school soccer team. Led the team to two state championships and organized weekly training sessions. Seeking to leverage leadership and teamwork skills in a dynamic work environment.

Learn how to incorporate extracurricular activities into your resume and read: Top Extracurricular Activities to Add to Your Resume (Samples)

Resume summary based on a mix of experience

Motivated recent graduate with a 4.0 GPA and a strong foundation in customer service from part-time work at a retail store. Volunteered at local animal shelter, managing 2 adoption events per month, increasing adoption rate by 15%. Eager to apply multitasking abilities and customer service skills to a professional role.

Resume summaries based on creative projects

Creative content creator with experience in managing a personal blog, growing its readership to 1,000 monthly visitors. Developed strong writing and content creation skills. Seeking to bring creativity and attention to detail to a marketing or content creation role.

Artistic graduate with experience in graphic design, having completed online courses in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Designed promotional materials for school events, increasing attendance by 25%. Excited to bring artistic skills to a design or marketing team.

Resume summary based on sports activities

Dedicated and disciplined athlete with experience in competitive swimming. Managed rigorous training schedules while maintaining a 3.8 GPA. Developed time management and resilience, aiming to apply these skills in a professional setting.

Resume summaries based on academics

Recent graduate with honors in Mathematics, achieving top marks in advanced calculus and statistics courses. Participated in math competitions, placing in the top 10 regionally. Seeking to apply analytical and quantitative skills in a data analysis role.

STEM enthusiast with a strong academic background in physics and chemistry. Completed a science fair project on renewable energy, earning first place at the district level. Seeking to apply analytical and research skills in a scientific or engineering role.

Resume summary based on part-time work

Passionate about fitness and health, with part-time experience as a gym assistant. Assisted with client schedules and maintained equipment, enhancing customer satisfaction survey results to a 4.7 star average rating. Looking to bring organizational skills and passion for health to a fitness-related role.

Resume summary based on leadership in clubs

Active member of the debate club with strong public speaking and research skills. Led the team to win regional championships and mentored new members. Looking to utilize leadership and communication skills in a challenging work environment.

A summary statement for a resume is a brief introduction that highlights your key skills, experiences, and what you aim to achieve in your career. For a beginner, this statement should focus on your education, any relevant skills, internships, volunteer work, and a clear career goal. It provides a snapshot of who you are and what you bring to the table, making it easier for hiring managers to quickly see your potential. Example: “Recent Marketing graduate with a strong foundation in social media management, content creation, and data analysis. Proven ability to increase engagement and brand visibility through innovative strategies, increasing social media followers by 30% in six months. Seeking to leverage skills and knowledge to contribute to a dynamic marketing team.”

The beginning of your resume summary should immediately grab the reader’s attention. Start with a strong descriptor followed by your job title, relevant experience, or education. Mention a few key skills or achievements that align with the job you’re applying for. Example: “Highly motivated and results-oriented Computer Science graduate with hands-on experience in software development and database management. Skilled in Java, Python, and SQL, with a passion for developing efficient and scalable solutions. Developed a web application that improved process efficiency by 25%.”

A good resume profile summary is concise, focused, and tailored to the job description. It should clearly state your professional identity, highlight your key strengths and achievements, and convey your career aspirations. Use action words and quantify achievements whenever possible to make a stronger impact. Example: “Certified Project Manager with over 5 years of experience in leading cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time and within budget. Expert in Agile methodologies, risk management, and process optimization. Successfully managed a project portfolio worth $2 million, achieving a 95% on-time delivery rate.”

Introducing yourself in a resume summary involves providing a brief yet comprehensive overview of who you are professionally. Start with your current role or recent educational achievement, followed by your most relevant skills and a statement of your career goals. Example: “Enthusiastic and creative Graphic Designer with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and 2 years of experience in creating visually compelling digital and print media. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, with a keen eye for detail and a strong commitment to delivering high-quality work. Designed marketing materials that boosted client sales by 15%. Looking to contribute my design expertise to a forward-thinking company.”

Kelsey is a Content Writer with a background in content creation, bouncing between industries to educate readers everywhere.

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How to write a CV with no research experience?

Hi everyone! I’m interested doing research the summer after my 2nd year and plan to email some profs in the fall, but I’m not sure how to prepare my CV. I understand that a CV is used mainly for academic applications which is why it differs from a resume. However, I have no research experience so I’m not sure if I should list things I would normally put on my resume, like employment and volunteer experience that’s unrelated to research. If anyone could provide some tips/advice that would be great!