Personal statement
Always start with your personal statement – and tailor it to the role in question. To put it simply, every time you apply for a new job, you will need to write a new personal statement, which should be tweaked to match the job description.
In terms of structure, consciously try and answer the following questions: Who are you? What do you have to offer? What are you aiming for in your career?
Also, try and quantify and give examples, where possible, and be specific. Generic personal statements can prompt a CV to fall at the first hurdle.
Skills
Instead of concentrating on a minimal work history, the most effective CVs written by school leavers often give precedence to skills.
Just as with your personal statement, try giving examples that are applicable to the role in question. For example, IT skills (naming specific programs), or soft skills such as problem solving, public speaking and interpersonal skills, not to mention a friendly and welcoming demeanour, are all desirable qualities to have.
Education
Education should be included from GCSE level on. State the number and general grades you received (Maths and English at the very least). If you’re awaiting any results, you may state mock/expected results where possible, although this is not essential.
Write in reverse-chronological order, with the most recent events coming at the top.
In direct terms, particular course modules you’ve undertaken may be relevant to a role or scheme you’re applying for and can be used to demonstrate your wider knowledge of the subject.
Hobbies & Interests
A Hobbies and Interests section is optional. However, if you lack any notable work experience, they can be a great way of getting your personality across.
Feel like you don’t really have a hobby? Don’t panic. It’s never too late. Starting a blog, for example, can be a perfect way to show what you can offer – and could work for practically any career you investigate. From the obvious such as fashion and retail (fashion blogs) through to carpentry and construction (documenting a DIY or restoration project, for example).
Just be wary of anything too generic, such as socialising with friends or going to the cinema (unless, of course, you’re applying for a role at your local cinema).
Ask yourself: Will they help you get the job? If not, it’s OK to leave them out. Finally, make sure you’re happy to expand upon them during your interview if called upon.
CV Templates- https://www.livecareer.co.uk
