Writing a CV with no work experience can feel impossible — but it’s not. Whether you’re a student, graduate, or first-time job seeker, employers care about your potential, not just your past jobs. This guide will help you create a professional, South Africa-ready CV that stands out even if you’ve never worked before.
🧾 What a CV Is (and Why It Matters)
Your Curriculum Vitae (CV) is your personal marketing tool — a summary of who you are, your education, skills, and achievements. Employers use it to decide who gets shortlisted for interviews. A clear, honest, and well-formatted CV is your ticket to getting noticed.
📋 Step-by-Step: How to Write a CV With No Experience
1️⃣ Start With Your Personal Information
Include your full name, contact number, email address, and city of residence. You can leave out sensitive details like ID number, full home address, or bank information.
Example: Name: Lerato Mokoena Phone: 081 000 0000 Email: leratomokoena@gmails.com Location: Soweto, Johannesburg
2️⃣ Write a Short Personal Profile
This short paragraph should summarize your goals, attitude, and what makes you a good fit for the job.
Example: I am a motivated and reliable young person seeking entry-level employment. I’m eager to learn, punctual, and ready to contribute to any team while building my skills in customer service and administration.
3️⃣ Focus on Education
List your highest qualification first, including your school or college and the year completed.
Example: Matric – Orlando High School (2023) Subjects: English, Mathematics, Business Studies, Life Orientation
4️⃣ Highlight Skills (Even if You Learned Them Informally)
Skills can come from volunteering, hobbies, or even school projects.
- Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, Email)
- Teamwork and communication
- Customer service and problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Basic admin or filing skills
5️⃣ Add Extracurricular Activities or Volunteering
Include any leadership, sports, or community roles. It shows responsibility and initiative.
Example: Volunteer – Church Youth Program (2022) Assisted with event coordination and community outreach projects.
6️⃣ References (Optional but Helpful)
Include one or two references who can confirm your character or school performance — teachers, coaches, or community leaders.
Example: Mrs. N Dlamini – Life Orientation Teacher Email: ndlamini@orlandohigh.co.za | Phone: 082 000 1234
💡 Bonus Tips for a Strong First CV
- Keep it 1 page only if you have no prior work experience
- Use a clean, easy-to-read font (Arial or Calibri, size 11–12)
- Save and send your CV as a PDF, not a Word document
- Double-check spelling and grammar — small mistakes can cost big
- Don’t include your photo unless specifically requested
🚀 Next Steps: Where to Apply for Entry-Level Jobs
- SAYouth / Harambee Network – Free youth opportunities
- Department of Labour – Entry-level job postings
- Learnerships – Work & study programs
- Internships – Graduate programs
🔗 Related Reading
- Interview Preparation Tips That Work →
- Skills in Demand for 2025–2026 →
- Free Online Courses & Certificates →
- Jobs & Opportunities in South Africa →
Last updated: November 2025 | Author: MyInfoHub Career Desk
Disclaimer: MyInfoHub provides free, verified information only. We do not process applications or charge any fees.
