Everybody starts with zero experience. Recruiters know that. They don't expect 10 years — they expect potential.
Here is the 5-section formula for a first-time CV:
1. Killer Professional Profile (Not an Objective): Don't write "Seeking a job". Write: "Matric graduate with strong computer literacy and customer service skills gained from school projects and volunteer work. Fluent in English, Sepedi, Zulu. Looking for an entry-level Admin role."
2. Education First: Matric, TVET, University. Add subjects relevant to the job. e.g., If applying for retail, highlight Maths, English, Business Studies. Add your average if it's 65%+.
3. Skills That Pay Bills: Create 3 columns: Soft Skills (Communication, Teamwork), Hard Skills (MS Word, Excel, Canva, POS), Languages. This is your strongest section.
4. Experience Isn't Just Paid Jobs: Add: Volunteer at church, Tutoring, School Prefect, Sports Captain, Helped in family business, Freelance gigs, Online courses (Google, Coursera). Treat them like jobs with bullet points.
5. Projects & References: Add a school project, community project, or online certificate. End with 2 references: Teacher, Pastor, Coach — not family.
Keep it ONE page. Save as Name_Surname_CV.pdf.
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