First job CV

Your first steps in the professional world deserve a CV that will make all the difference. With ToolResume, explore our CV examples and create a first-job CV that showcases your potential, even with limited experience.

Build my CV

Even if you have no work experience, your CV gives recruiters a first impression of your profile. It is the first thing they look at when assessing your application. Although you may have little or no experience, a well-crafted CV can emphasise your skills acquired during your studies, internships or work placements, as well as your personal and voluntary projects. It's an opportunity to showcase your potential and your ability to adapt to a professional environment. At ToolResume, we understand the importance of this first step in your professional career. We're here to help you create a striking CV that will highlight your skills and increase your chances of success in your job search.

Know yourself

Take the time to review your skills, achievements and career goals. Identify what makes you unique and what you can offer an employer.

Choose a CV template

Analyse the position you are applying for

Carefully analyse the job offer you are applying for. Understand the skills and qualifications required, as well as the corporate culture. This will help you tailor your CV to the employer's specific expectations.

Modify a CV template

Keep to the point

Make sure your application is presented clearly, succinctly and professionally. Use our examples of first-job CVs as a guide. Structure your CV so that it is easy to read and easy to understand. Focus on your strengths and avoid unnecessary information.

Write my CV

How do you write a CV for your first job?

To land your first job, the first thing you need is a resume which shows off your profile to the best effect. Here are a few tips to help you create the perfect first-job CV:

Structure your CV

Split it into clear sections to make it easy to read. In addition, remember to include your contact details, your education and your work experience if you have any (work placements, internships, part-time jobs, summer jobs, or any relevant school projects). Don't forget to highlight your skills and hobbies.

Highlight your background

Put the spotlight on your experience, whether professional or personal. Work placements, internships, summer jobs, voluntary work or even personal projects can demonstrate your skills and commitment to your first employer. Give a concise description of the tasks you've carried out and the skills you've acquired during these experiences, emphasising their relevance to your target job.

Underline your skills

Emphasise your technical skills and personal strengths which match the requirements of the job. Whether it's your ability to use IT tools, your teamwork skills or your creativity, every skill can be valued. If you have neither academic qualifications nor professional experience, highlight the cross-disciplinary skills you have acquired in other areas of your life, such as organisation, problem-solving, or communication.

Customise your CV

Tailor your CV to the job and the company to make it the best possible application for your first job. Put forward the skills and experience that are most relevant to each opportunity, by using appropriate language for the target industry. This personalisation shows your commitment to the job and your ability to meet the employer's needs, whatever your academic or professional background.

Examples of first job CV templates

Benefit from the many online CV templates tailored to your industry sector and job. Select the style which suits you best to make you shine and help you get the dream job.

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Best practices and mistakes to avoid for first job resume

Best practices

Valuing your voluntary or personal experience

Keep your application simple and professional

Mistakes to avoid

Forgetting to highlight your soft skills

Neglecting your transferable skills

Complete your CV

The basics for your first job CV

Promote your acquired skills

Explain your background and experience, both professional and personal, so that you can prove your worth to employers despite your lack of experience.

Match the position you are targeting

Carefully analyse the job vacancy to identify the employer's specific requirements and tailor your CV to meet them.

Make your CV clear and to the point

Choose a professional, well-structured layout for your CV, showing your skills and achievements succinctly so that recruiters can understand them more easily.

Emphasise your cross-disciplinary skills

Don't overlook your transferable skills acquired in non-professional contexts, such as voluntary work or personal projects, as these may be just as relevant to your first job.

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Frequently asked questions about first-job CVs

Why is it important to have a well-written first-job CV?

A first-job CV is your first impression with employers. If you lack experience, it will help you showcase your skills and potential so that you can land your first job.

Can I compensate for my lack of professional experience on my first-job CV?

You can compensate for your lack of professional experience by highlighting other relevant experiences such as work placements, internships, school projects, voluntary activities, etc. Focusing on your transferable skills and your potential can also help to compensate for this lack.

How can I tailor my CV to each job I apply for?

To personalise your CV, carefully analyse each job advert to understand the employer's specific expectations. Then adapt your CV by highlighting the skills and experience that are most relevant to each job.

Which CV format is best for a first job?

For a first job, a clear, well-structured and easy-to-read CV format is recommended. Choose a simple, professional format.