17/03/2025
No Experience? No Problem!
If you're a graduate who has completed an internship, freelanced, volunteered, or even assisted a friend or family member with a project—include it in your CV! Employers are more open than ever to unconventional experience. Highlight challenges you’ve overcome, skills you've developed, and lessons you've learned from experiences such as travel, online courses, or extracurricular activities. Keep a record of all your skills and experiences so that you have solid examples for applications and interviews.
Graduates often struggle to present their qualifications and skills in a way that resonates with recruiters. Instead of just mentioning that you wrote a dissertation, explain how it helped you develop strong research and analytical skills that can contribute to business reports, strategic planning, or client presentations.
Addressing CV Gaps as a Career Break Parent or Job Seeker
CV gaps are no longer seen as red flags, especially in the wake of global workforce shifts. Be upfront and positive about your career breaks. At the start of your CV, include a brief paragraph explaining any gaps and what skills or experiences you gained during this time.
Employers value transferable skills, so emphasize any budgeting experience if applying for finance roles, or highlight your interpersonal skills if you're looking at customer service positions. Freelance projects, online certifications, and personal development during time away from work can demonstrate your initiative and adaptability.
CV Mistakes to Avoid
What Employers Are Looking for in 2025
Beyond technical skills and qualifications, companies increasingly seek soft skills such as:
Rather than listing these skills generically, provide examples of how you've demonstrated them in a professional or academic setting.
Academic Qualifications: To Include or Not?
Some employers consider academic performance, while others focus on skills and experience. If your school grades don’t reflect your current capabilities, omit them unless explicitly requested. As a guideline, include them if:
How to Make Your CV Stand Out
Writing a Strong Profile Section
Your CV profile should briefly explain why you are the ideal candidate for the job. Keep it engaging, highlighting relevant skills, experience, and career aspirations. This is your chance to make a strong first impression.
Should You Include Hobbies?
If you have extensive work experience, hobbies aren’t necessary. However, for recent graduates or those with less professional experience, mentioning hobbies that showcase relevant skills can be beneficial. Highlight activities that demonstrate leadership, teamwork, or creativity.
Contact Details: What to Include
With most recruitment happening online, you no longer need to include your full address. A general location (e.g., "London, UK") is sufficient. If applying for jobs in a different city, adding a note like "Relocating to Manchester in July 2024" can prevent your application from being disregarded.
By following these latest CV trends, you’ll improve your chances of standing out and landing your next job opportunity!
If you require additional assistance with writing your CV, why not email us at info@jobsinwales.com referencing 'What should I include in my CV', call us on 02920 628808 or check out our Youtube channel at http://bit.ly/JobsinWalesYoutube
