Introduction
Writing a strong CV (Curriculum Vitae) is one of the most important steps toward landing a job. For South African youth, especially those entering the job market for the first time, crafting a clear, professional CV can make all the difference.
In this guide, we walk you through how to write a winning CV — even if you don’t have much experience yet — with tips specific to South African employers.
1. Start with Your Contact Details
Include:
- Full name
- Phone number (with country code +27)
- Professional email address (avoid nicknames)
- LinkedIn profile (if you have one)
- Location (city and province)
2. Write a Clear Personal Summary
A brief paragraph (3-4 sentences) summarizing who you are and what you want. Highlight your key skills and career goals.
Example:
“Motivated recent graduate with strong communication and organizational skills seeking an entry-level role in customer service. Quick learner with a passion for problem-solving and teamwork.”
3. List Your Education
Include your most recent qualifications first:
- School or university name
- Qualification (e.g., Matric, Diploma, Degree)
- Dates attended
- Any notable achievements or awards
4. Highlight Your Work Experience
If you have work experience, list it with:
- Job title
- Employer’s name
- Dates worked
- Key responsibilities and achievements (use bullet points)
If you don’t have formal work experience, include:
- Internships
- Volunteer work
- Part-time jobs
- Projects or freelance work
5. Showcase Your Skills
Create a skills section listing relevant skills for the job, such as:
- Computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office)
- Communication
- Customer service
- Languages spoken
- Digital marketing or coding (if applicable)
6. Include Additional Sections (If Relevant)
- Certifications (e.g., First Aid, Driving license)
- Extracurricular activities (sports, clubs)
- Interests (keep it professional and relevant)
7. Keep It Short and Professional
- One page is ideal for youth and entry-level candidates
- Use clear fonts and formatting
- Avoid typos and grammatical errors — proofread carefully!
8. Customize Your CV for Each Job
- Match your skills and experience to the job description
- Use keywords from the job posting
- Make sure your CV aligns with the role’s requirements
9. Add a Cover Letter
Though not always required, a well-written cover letter can help you stand out. Briefly explain why you’re interested in the role and what you can bring to the company.
Tools to Help You Build Your CV
- Canva – for professional CV templates
- Microsoft Word – simple and effective
- Novoresume – online CV builder
- LinkedIn – build an online CV profile
Final Tips
- Be honest — never exaggerate experience
- Ask a friend or mentor to review your CV
- Keep updating your CV as you gain experience
Conclusion
Your CV is your first impression — make it count. With a clear, focused, and professional CV, you’ll increase your chances of landing interviews and getting closer to your dream job.