Crafting Your CV: A Guide for High School Students
Recently, Robert Walters Recruitment experts Sam Palmer and Peter Swinney visited our school to share invaluable insights on creating an effective CV. Robert Walters Recruitment is renowned for its strong connections with Auckland employers across various industries. Here’s a breakdown of their expert advice to help you craft a compelling CV that showcases your strengths and skills.
- Highlight your transferable skills
As a student, your work history might be limited, but that doesn’t mean your CV should be sparse. Sam Palmer emphasised the importance of including sports, cultural activities, and volunteer roles,
“these experiences demonstrate your transferable skills such as teamwork, leadership, and dedication, which are highly valued by employers,” explained Sam.
- Essential components of your CV
Every CV should include:
- Contact details: Ensure your email address and phone number are clearly visible.
- Professional statement: This acts as a snapshot of who you are professionally and what you can bring to a role. Keep it concise and impactful.
- Qualifications and skills: List your educational achievements and relevant skills that match the job requirements.
- Key tips for writing your CV
- Use action verbs: Start each bullet point describing your experiences with strong action verbs like “managed,” “developed,” or “achieved.” This adds impact and clarity to your achievements.
- Be honest: Avoid exaggerating your skills or experiences. Honesty is crucial and will be appreciated by potential employers.
- Proofread: Check your CV thoroughly for spelling and grammatical errors. It’s helpful to have someone else review it as well to catch any mistakes you might have missed.
- Professional format: Opt for a clean, professional layout. Choose a readable font and ensure consistent formatting throughout your CV.
- Keep it concise: Aim for a CV length of 1-2 pages. Be selective about the information you include, focusing on what is most relevant to the job you’re applying for.
- Tailor your CV: Customise your CV for each job application. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most pertinent to the specific role you’re interested in.
Writing a CV might seem daunting, especially as a high school student, but with the right approach, you can create a document that effectively showcases your strengths and potential to prospective employers. Remember, your CV is your first impression—it should be clear, concise, and tailored to the job you’re applying for. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-equipped to present yourself in the best possible light and increase your chances of landing that dream opportunity.