Let’s be honest: crafting your first CV feels like trying to impress someone with an empty plate. No job experience, no jaw-dropping achievements… just a whole lot of potential. But here’s the thing—recruiters aren’t expecting a Pulitzer-worthy résumé. They’re looking for clues about you.
So, how do you catch their eye when you’re just starting out? I’ve got you.
1. Clarity Over Complexity
Recruiters spend an average of 6-10 seconds scanning a CV. Yes, seconds. That means your CV has to scream “I’m worth it!” at first glance.
What they want:
- Clean, easy-to-read formatting.
- Clear headings like Education, Skills, Experience, and Projects.
- Bullet points (not paragraphs!) to keep things digestible.
Avoid the temptation to overcomplicate. Simple and sharp wins.
2. A Punchy Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your moment to shine. Think of it as a tweet-sized pitch—who you are, what you bring, and what you want.
Example:
“A recent marketing graduate with a knack for creative problem-solving and a passion for social media strategy. Excited to bring fresh ideas to a dynamic team.”
Recruiters love candidates who know what they want and aren’t afraid to say it.
3. Transferable Skills Are Gold
You might not have office experience, but you’ve got skills. Trust me, you do. Recruiters want to see how your life so far has prepared you for work.
Highlight:
- Teamwork: Led group projects or worked on a school committee? That counts!
- Communication: Presented ideas to a crowd or wrote reports? Put it down.
- Time Management: Balanced studies, part-time work, and Netflix? You’re a pro!
Connect these to the job you’re applying for. Make it easy for them to see the fit.
4. Education That Tells a Story
Your degree isn’t just a qualification; it’s proof of your potential. But don’t just list “BSc in Biology.” Add context that shows how it’s relevant.
Example:
BSc in Biology
- Coursework: Microbiology, Data Analysis, Environmental Science
- Achievements: Published a research paper, received a scholarship
Recruiters are looking for more than grades—they want to know how your education has shaped you.
5. Projects & Passions = Experience
Recruiters are big fans of go-getters. They love seeing personal projects, volunteer gigs, or freelance work because it shows initiative.
Did you:
- Build a portfolio website?
- Volunteer to organize events?
- Start a YouTube channel or Etsy shop?
All these scream proactive, creative, and driven.
6. Tailored, Tailored, Tailored
A generic CV is the quickest way to get ignored. Recruiters want to feel like you’re genuinely interested in their job.
How to tailor:
- Use keywords from the job description.
- Highlight relevant skills, projects, or coursework.
- Show you understand what the company is about and why you’re a great fit.
Tailoring shows effort, and effort is always attractive.
7. Soft Skills Aren’t “Soft” to Recruiters
You’ll see “strong communication skills” and “team player” on almost every job description. They’re not filler—they’re essential. Recruiters love when candidates showcase these with real examples.
For instance:
- “Led a 5-member team to organize a campus fundraiser, raising 50,000 Ksh.”
- “Resolved conflicts as a customer service volunteer, ensuring customer satisfaction.”
Pro tip: Use action verbs like organized, resolved, managed, or created.
8. Proofread Like Your Career Depends on It
A single typo can be a dealbreaker. Recruiters see it as a lack of attention to detail.
Before sending your CV:
- Run it through spell-check.
- Read it out loud.
- Ask a friend to review it.
A flawless CV screams professionalism.
9. Confidence Wins Hearts
Recruiters are looking for potential, not perfection. They want to hire someone who’s ready to learn and contribute. Your tone should reflect that.
For example:
Instead of: “I lack experience but hope to improve,”
Say: “Eager to grow and bring fresh perspectives to the team.”
Confidence is contagious—and recruiters want to catch it.
Final Thoughts
Your first CV isn’t about showcasing a long list of achievements. It’s about telling a story—your story. Show them you’re curious, capable, and ready to bring value.
So, don’t stress over what you don’t have. Focus on what you do have: your skills, your drive, and your unique journey. Because that’s what recruiters really want to see.
Now, go make that CV, and make them notice you. You’ve got this. 💪
