Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Job Seekers
Struggling to write a CV with no work experience? Learn how to build a strong, simple, and effective CV that highlights your skills, education, and potential, even as a recent graduate.
How to Write a CV for a Job with No Experience
When you’re looking for your first job, writing a CV can feel confusing, especially if you haven’t worked before. The good news is, employers aren’t just looking for past jobs. They want to see who you are, what you can do, and whether you’re eager to learn.
This guide breaks down how to write a CV with no experience in a way that’s clear, simple, and effective so you can confidently apply for that job. While looking for your first job, you can also advertise your soft skills here on our freelance website. Clients will see you and that can open doors for you! Visit the virtual assistant services page and check the skills you can offer to our clients.
1. Keep the Layout Simple
Start with a clean, easy-to-read format. Use a basic font like Times New Roma, Arial or Calibri. Keep the layout neat with clear headings like “Education,” “Skills,” and “Volunteer Experience.” Don’t try to fill space with flashy designs or unnecessary info. Employers care about content, not colours.
If you don’t have job experience, go with a skills-based CV. This lets you focus more on what you’re good at rather than what you’ve done.
2. Start with a Personal Statement
A personal statement is a short paragraph at the top of your CV. It’s your introduction to the employer. Think of it as your quick pitch: Who are you? What are you good at? What are you looking for?
Example:
“Recent high school graduate with strong communication and problem-solving skills. Reliable, quick to learn, and eager to contribute to a supportive team environment. Looking for an opportunity to grow in a customer-focused role.”
Make sure this section is tailored to the job you’re applying for. Avoid vague lines like “I am hardworking” unless you can show how.
3. Highlight Your Education
Without work history, your education section matters a lot. Include your most recent school, the years you studied, and any certificates, awards, or standout classes.
If you worked on any group projects or did a presentation, include that too, especially if it helped you build teamwork, communication, or organization skills.
Example:
KCSE Graduate – Nairobi School
2019 – 2023
- Participated in the school business club and managed a small event planning activity.
- Top performer in English and Business Studies.
- Led a group presentation on local entrepreneurship trends.
4. Focus on Transferable Skills
Just because you haven’t worked in a company doesn’t mean you don’t have skills. Maybe you helped at your parent’s shop. Maybe you’ve organized a fundraiser. These all count.
Here are examples of transferable skills that employers may consider:
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Time management
- Customer service
- Computer skills
- Adaptability
Example of a Skills Section:
Skills
- Teamwork: Helped organize a school debate event with a team of 5 students.
- Communication: Regularly gave announcements at school assemblies.
- Customer Service: Helped family business by attending to customers and restocking supplies.
- Basic Computer Use: Comfortable with Microsoft Word, email, and internet research.
5. Add Volunteer Experience or Projects
Any hands-on experience, even unpaid, is worth mentioning. Volunteering, internships, family business help, or school club responsibilities show initiative and responsibility.
List the name of the organization, your role, and what you did.
Example:
Volunteer Assistant – Kisumu Community Library
May – July 2023
- Shelved and organized books
- Helped children with reading and games
- Managed attendance during weekend events
Even small tasks show you’re dependable and ready to learn.
6. Match Your CV to the Job Description
This step is key. Look at the job description in the job ad. What skills or traits do they want? For example, if the employer says they want someone “good with people,” include real examples where you’ve worked with others or helped someone.
Try to use the same keywords the employer uses. This helps your CV get noticed, especially if they’re using software to scan applications.
7. Keep It to One Page
If you’re just starting out, a one-page CV is perfect. Stick to what matters. Cut out extra details like your full address, old test results, or hobbies unless they clearly relate to the job.
Make sure your contact info is correct. Use a professional-sounding email; ideally something like
8. Double-Check Everything
Before sending, read through your CV slowly. Look for typos, grammar errors, or missing information. Ask a friend or mentor to look it over too. Clean, error-free writing shows attention to detail.
You can get help here on Apexlistings to write your CV or have it edited for as low as Ksh 100 and you will be on your way to landing your first job.
Final Thoughts
Writing a CV with no experience isn’t about hiding your lack of work history, it’s about showing what you do have: your potential, your skills, your motivation. Focus on what you’ve learned in school, your attitude, and the value you can bring to a team.
Every professional started somewhere. This could be your start.
Quick Recap for First-Time Job Seekers:
- Use a simple layout and focus on skills
- Write a short, clear personal statement
- Highlight school achievements and projects
- List any volunteer or informal work
- Tailor your CV to the job description
- Keep it honest and proofread carefully