Just graduated and ready to apply for jobs? Then chances are your CV is not yet filled with years of professional experience. But that certainly doesn’t mean you’re not a strong candidate. Today, employers look beyond experience alone. Skills, potential and motivation matter just as much.
With the right approach, you can still create a professional CV as a starter that stands out to recruiters. Here’s how to make the most of your studies, student jobs and other experiences when applying for jobs.
Make relevant skills stand out immediately
Start your CV with a short overview of the skills that are relevant to the role you are applying for. Think of communication skills, analytical thinking, planning, teamwork or knowledge of specific software and tools.
Don’t just describe what you can do, but also explain where you developed those skills and give examples of how you applied them. Perhaps you gained experience during an internship, a relevant student job, volunteer work or a freelance assignment. Extracurricular activities can also demonstrate valuable skills.
Then list your work experience in reverse chronological order. Focus primarily on relevant experience. A student job related to the sector you want to work in is often more valuable than older or less relevant side jobs.
Academic experience counts as work experience too
Many graduates underestimate how much relevant experience they have already gained during their studies. Yet projects, group assignments and dissertations often help students develop skills that are highly valuable in the workplace.
For example, have you:
completed a research project?
given a presentation?
organised an event?
worked on a group assignment with deadlines?
If so, you have likely developed skills such as collaboration, planning, communication and problem-solving. That is why it is important to briefly highlight relevant academic projects on your CV, especially when they relate to the vacancy or industry you are applying to.
Strong academic results deserve attention
If you achieved strong academic results, don’t hesitate to include them on your CV, especially as a recent graduate. Think of a dissertation with a high grade, an honours programme you participated in, relevant certificates or additional courses, or subjects related to the role.
Additional training or courses in areas such as data analysis, AI, communication or agile working can further strengthen your CV.
Don’t forget to include other experience
Experiences outside of work or study can also be valuable to employers. Have you led activities at a sports camp, been involved in organizing a student association or done volunteer work? These experiences often demonstrate initiative and the ability to take responsibility.
International experience can also be a plus. Spending time abroad, for example, shows independence, flexibility and adaptability.
Zorg voor een professionele en overzichtelijke opmaak
Download the Robert Half template
Just like the content, the presentation of your CV matters. Recruiters often spend only a few seconds on an initial screening. A clear structure and professional layout can therefore make a major difference.
Make sure your CV:
is clear and easy to read
is no longer than two pages
uses consistent headings and fonts
contains no spelling or grammar mistakes
Want to start with a professional foundation right away? Use a CV template to quickly create a modern and well-structured CV.
A strong CV is not just about experience
Find your next job here
Even without years of work experience, you can still create a convincing CV as a recent graduate. By focusing strategically on relevant skills, academic projects and practical experience, you can clearly demonstrate your potential.
Today, employers are not only looking for candidates with experience, but also for people who are eager to learn, show initiative and develop quickly.
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