Fresh Graduate CV: how do you write it?

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Creating a curriculum vitae (CV) is one of the first tasks most fresh graduates complete after their studies. Crafting and writing it is not easy. Actually, it can be quite daunting and challenging.

And I am sorry – and sad! – to say that there is no magic formula for the “perfect” CV, no matter if it is for a seasoned professional or a fresh graduate entering the job market. This is because there is no “perfect” CV. Indeed, believe me or not, it does not exist. So, what kind of useful advice tailored to fresh graduates can I give?

Let’s see . . .

  • Showcase your hard-earned education. Yes! You should be proud of it because not everyone who starts their studies completes it. And if you did, you prove to be resilient, dedicated, hard worker, …
  • Include volunteer experience and community work. So you show that you have been developing and practicing some skills and competences that align well with those of the job you are after. The fact that is is not remunerated is not key. You’ve been told that you need experience to get that job? Well, this proves that you wanted to get that experience. And that you have acquired some.
  • Don’t forget your scouts years. Mention them among your extracurricular activities. Being a scout means that you have a strong moral values, you are confident and experienced in working in team and leading one, you are hands-on, and much more.
  • List awards and achievements you received while in college or in other occasions. Because these prove personal development, self-motivation and your ability to achieve personal goals.
  • Mention internships and observation hours. That’s probably the easiest and most obvious. So not much to add.
  • Show you have transferable skills from previous jobs or experiences outside the workplace. Because recruiters might not only look for people who have similar working experiences to the job they are offering. Some are interested in fresh talents that might have something new and diverse to offer, but still have skills that are needed for that position, either directly or indirectly. 
  • Add you LinkedIn URL. Do it if you have a strong profile and you are active on the platform. This is a good way to demonstrate your networking ability as well as your knowledge as subject matter expert.

What else?! Well, good luck! And if you do find the magic formula please let me know.