Mar 7, 2022
How to Write an Effective CV
Writing a CV can be challenging, especially for apprentices. So, what do you need to include to create a successful CV?
One of the main purposes of a CV is to catch the employer’s eye enough for them to invite you in for a face-to-face interview. It is at this point where you can really sell yourself, your skills, knowledge, and your passion for the area you’re applying in.
There are many different templates, formats, and styles to write a CV, and none are right or wrong. Everyone views CVs differently and this includes those who review them too.
We’ve collated a checklist to help you write a successful CV based on our own experience with employers.
Template
There are many different templates out there to write your CV on. My advice would be to get creative with your CV, standing out from your peers could make all the difference. Microsoft Word have more than enough free options to go at, so I would start here. Take a look at Apprentify's CV template.
The Basics
Generally, whoever is reading your CV will be reading a few, so you don’t want to waffle on throughout your CV. Keep it clear and concise.
Stick with the basic personal information such as name, contact number, email, and address. Nothing more is required at this point of your journey, so avoid pictures and other personal data which is not relevant.
Profile
A key area on a CV, where you will have to catch the readers eye for them to keep reading on. So again, don’t waffle and keep to the point. I would include 2 or 3 shorts paragraphs here on your current situation, main skills, why you want to enrol on an apprenticeship and what you hope to achieve from this whilst working at their company.
Skills
Another important area of a CV is your current skills. Having read the job description what soft and other skills are they looking for? If you possess these skills, then you must include them. Bullet pointing is the easiest way to go, and you can add a little description if required. Below is a list of some of the soft & other skills they may be looking for.
Soft Skills
- Leadership
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Work Ethic
- Flexibility/Adaptability
- Interpersonal
Other Skills
- Social media
- Content Creation
- Creative Writing
- SEO / PPC
- Google Analytics
- Software knowledge i.e., Adobe Suite
- Web creation
Work Experience
A relatively straight forward section of the CV but one to ensure you are clear and concise. Start with the most recent role first and move backwards. You should include the company, job role, duration you were there as a title and then a small paragraph of specifically YOUR responsibilities.
Education
Again, most recent first and move backwards. The title should be where you studied and at what level i.e., GCSEs with your specific subjects and grades following.
Volunteering & leadership experience
This is a nice addition to a CV that can showcase any volunteering you have completed or any projects, teams, or clubs you may have led.
Portfolio
Creating a portfolio will not be for everyone, however if you want to stand out from your peers, this is a great way to go about it. A simple link on your CV to a portfolio is a fantastic and simple way for you to showcase some of your skills to the employer.
References
You can write your references on your CV, however for an apprenticeship role, simply writing ‘References available upon request’ is enough.
If you are interested in a digital marketing apprenticeship and would like to know more, please complete one of our online submission forms and a member of the team will be in touch.
Here are some great examples of CV’s:
CV 1:
Candidate Bio:
I am a creative and motivated individual looking to develop my skills and an overall successful career in Digital Marketing. I have experience working in an office environment and working within the creative marketing industry.
Skills:
- PC Skills
- Project management
- Social media management – Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
- Social media analytics and reporting – on-top of latest trends and optimising posts to drive traffic to the website
- Photography and videography – planning, briefing, executing, and editing using the Adobe Creative Suite
- Organising invoices, payments, funded places for bookings
- Coaching in schools
Achievements:
- 7 GCSEs
- Commissioned by the owner an online magazine to write an article which was released in CVH 1st Class in the 29th issue.
CV 2:
Candidate Bio:
I am a self-motivated individual with the ability to think strategically. During college, I was competing in mountain bike racing, so it was important to balance studying with training and travelling. I was even selected by Team GB to compete in the World Cup! Since then, I have worked as a ski instructor in Austria and now I run and market my own mountain bike coaching business. I also manage the social media, content creation, and email marketing for a growing furniture shop.
Skills:
- PC Skills
- Website management
- Content creation
- Social media management
- Email marketing using Mail Chimp
- Audience engagement
- Advertising
Achievements:
- 8 GCSEs
- Qualified Mountain Bike Coach
- Started own coaching business
- Gained over 500 followers on social media
- Run after school and holiday kids' club
- Conduct corporate guided rides and 1-1 coaching
Now you have written a brilliant CV, why not take a look at some of our available vacancies. We offer apprenticeships across the whole of England!
If you’re interested in adding a Digital or Technical apprentice into your business, take a look at the apprenticeships we have on offer: Apprenticeship Courses | Digital & Technical | Apprentify