How to Write a CV With No Work Experience (2025 Guide)

You Don't Need a Job to Have a Great CV

One of the biggest myths in job searching is that you need work experience before you can write a decent CV. The truth is that every recruiter reviewing graduate applications knows you haven't had a full-time role yet — they're not looking for that. They're looking for evidence that you can learn, contribute, and communicate.

Start With a Strong Personal Statement

The top third of your CV is prime real estate. Use three to four sentences to summarise who you are, what you studied or know, and what kind of role you're targeting. Be specific — "Recent marketing graduate seeking a content or social media role in a growing tech company" beats "Motivated individual looking for an exciting opportunity" every time.

Lead With Education

When you have no work history, your degree or qualification is your headline achievement. Include your degree title and university, graduation year, final grade if strong, and two or three relevant modules or academic projects. Connect the dots for the recruiter — don't make them guess.

Turn University Life Into Experience

You almost certainly have more experience than you think. Consider part-time or casual work, student societies or clubs, volunteering, freelance or personal projects, and placements or internships. For each one, follow the formula: action verb + what you did + result or scale.

Build a Skills Section That's Actually Useful

List hard skills — software, tools, languages — rather than soft skills. Include things like Microsoft Office, data analysis tools (Excel, Python, R), design tools (Canva, Figma), CRM platforms (HubSpot, Mailchimp), and foreign languages with proficiency level.

Keep the Format Clean and Simple

For an entry-level CV, one page is ideal. Use a clean font at 10–11pt, clear section headings, and consistent spacing. Avoid tables and graphics if you're applying through Applicant Tracking Systems. Save as a PDF unless the job advert specifically asks otherwise.

Tailor It Every Time

A generic CV sent to fifty employers will get fewer responses than a tailored CV sent to ten. Read each job description carefully and mirror the language they use. Present your real experience in the language the employer is already using.