How to build the best CV
'I've got a strong degree but no work experience'
If you've worked hard on your academics but feel like you haven't got enough workplace experience to bulk up your CV, you're not alone.
You probably have more experience than you think, even if you've never been on the payroll. Were you the treasurer for a university sports team? Describe it how it gave you experience in financial management.
Did you do a few days' work experience when you were at school? Describe which skills you learnt during your time there. Even if it was only for a day, all voluntary work and hobbies where you had some sort of responsibility should be added to your CV.
If you've never had a job, list your experience under 'Employment and work experience' or consider creating a skills-based CV, where you organise activities by theme such as teamwork and management experience.
James Hutcheson, who fields recruitment at supermarket chain Aldi, said that employers recognise that practical experience comes from all areas of life.
"Employers such as Aldi are looking for practical skills and experience, such as team working and organisational traits, which will help a candidate to be successful in the workplace," he said.
He explained that a well thought-out CV was just as important to a successful application. "Candidates applying for professional roles should ensure their CV is well presented, accurate and contains a balanced amount of information."
'I've done back-to-back internships but haven't yet found a job'
Internships are designed to get a foot in the door of your chosen industry - so if you've done several and don't have a job to show for it, ask for feedback from your employers.
"If you've been doing intern jobs for 2 years or so, it begs the question - why haven't you been snapped up?" recruiter Mr Setchell said.
"Firstly, talk to your employers and ask why they haven't given you a job. Get feedback from them - hopefully someone will be honest and tell you if this career isn't right for you," he said.
Avoid these CV pitfalls
1. Spelling and other errors: The biggest CV mishaps by far are misspelt words, irregular grammar and clunky sentences, according to CV expert Ms Mills.
2. Underselling yourself: It's surprising how many graduates miss out key experiences from their CV, explains Ms Mills. "If you're going for a finance job, don't miss out that part-time job in a shop - point out responsibilities such as dealing with cash and financial procedures," she said.
3. Sending a generic CV: Sending a template CV to an employer could send you straight to the reject pile, warns recruiter Mr Setchell. "Every employer is different - try to tweak your CV to meet their exact requirements. Most importantly, keep it simple and easy to read - bullet points are useful, and avoid using jargon or acronyms," he said.
4. Sending too many pages: A CV is the key to getting an interview, not your life history, Mr. Setchell said. "It should be a very short document - three to four pages is enough. It should be an advertisement of yourself and your skills, which you can expand on in the interview," he said.
