When you’re applying for a working position you really want, it can be
hard if you feel a lack of experience on your CV could potentially hold you
back. Don’t let this put you off, as employers will still be very interested in
what else you have to offer in a job. The fact you’ve even applied in the first
place is a testament to the fact you really want a particular role, so make
sure your CV does everything to highlight this enthusiasm even further if
you’re lacking practical work experience to list.
A lack of relevant experience is something all young people must contend with in a competitive job market. You may feel stuck in the classic catch 22:
can’t get the job without experience, can’t get the experience without the job.
There’s a wide range of scenarios that put people in these positions; perhaps
you’re a recent University graduate looking for your first job? Or possibly a
stay at home parent returning to the workforce? Whatever your situation,
there’s plenty of ways to bolster your CV beyond practical work experience.
Sports
Sports achievements are great to put on your CV, as they display a level
of dedication and teamwork which are applicable in almost all job roles.
Explore these achievements through the lens of a professional workplace, and
highlight to an employer how these skills could be valued beyond the sports
field.
Being involved in sports also shows you have a good level of fitness,
which is needed if working in a high-energy output role where physical
capabilities are a necessity.
Academic
Achievements
Your academic achievements are the perfect opportunity to show a certain
level of skill to an employer without substantial work experience. Use these
achievements to show your competence in certain areas such as mathematics or
English language, two skills which are highly desired in an employee.
Volunteer Work
If you have any volunteer work, it should absolutely be included in your
CV in lieu of paid experience. Not only will it open you up to a whole new
skill set, but it shows you are willing to commit your valuable time to a particular
cause, which encompasses the job interview process very well.
Volunteer work is also good from a team building perspective, and shows
you work well in groups to achieve a larger goal.
Travel
Whether you were on a gap year, or fulfilling various summer jobsabroad, employers want to see where you’ve been. This shows a level of
commitment to a purpose and highlights you are open and willing to try new
experiences, which is what joining a new workforce is all about.
Personal
Projects
You should include any personal projects which you’ve dedicated your
time to, as they could highlight additional skills you have, as well as the
capability to manage your own time and endeavors effectively.
A personal project also shows an approach to your interests which will
fit in well within a professional workplace and gives an employer a chance to find out that bit more about you and how you could fit into their current workforce.
Portfolios
A portfolio of creative work is also a great way to showcase your talents
and commitment to work. Like a personal project, a sizable showcase of work can
also highlight desirable and employable skills. Either include a hard copy of
your work or (more ideally) include a link to your online work within your CV
somewhere. LinkedIn is especially good for this as it allows potential employers to see your academic and professional abilities at any time.
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