Build your career, one step at a time.

1. How to Write a CV With Little or No Experience

You do not always need formal employment experience to demonstrate your potential. Education, practical projects, volunteering and relevant skills can help show what you can do.

What to include

• Your full name and professional contact details.
• A short profile relevant to the opportunity.
• Your education and relevant qualifications.
• Technical skills, projects and practical experience.
• Volunteering, leadership or other relevant activities.
• References only when requested or appropriate.

Example of a stronger CV statement

Instead of writing "I am hardworking and good with computers", describe something specific you have done.

Developed a small website using HTML, CSS and JavaScript as a personal project, practising responsive design and troubleshooting.

Keep your CV easy to read, use consistent formatting and tailor it to the advertised requirements. Never claim skills or qualifications you do not have.

2. How to Apply for a Job Properly

Before applying, read the entire advert. Employers may specify required documents, eligibility criteria, a subject line, an application portal or a closing date.

1. Check that you meet the essential requirements.
2. Prepare the documents requested in the advert.
3. Use a clear, professional email address.
4. Follow the application instructions exactly.
5. Check attachments, spelling and contact details.
6. Submit before the deadline and keep a copy of the advert.

Do not send the same generic application to every employer. Highlight the skills and experience that are relevant to each opportunity.

3. How to Prepare for a Job Interview

Research the employer, understand the role and prepare examples that demonstrate your skills. Practise answering questions aloud without memorising every word.

Use the STAR method

• Situation: Explain the situation or challenge.
• Task: Describe what needed to be done.
• Action: Explain what you personally did.
• Result: Share the outcome or lesson learned.

You can use examples from university projects, group assignments, volunteering or personal projects if you have not worked before.

Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the role, training, team or expectations. If the interview is online, test your internet connection, microphone and camera beforehand.

4. Learnerships and Internships Explained

These opportunities can help people develop practical skills, but their structures and eligibility requirements differ.

Learnerships

Learnerships combine structured learning with practical workplace experience and are linked to an occupational qualification or recognised learning programme. Check the specific programme's requirements before applying.

Internships

Internships provide practical experience in a workplace. Some target current students, while others are intended for graduates or people entering a particular industry.

Always check the required qualification, age or experience criteria where applicable, programme duration, location, stipend information and closing date in the official advert.

5. Applying for Graduate Programmes

Graduate programmes are often structured development opportunities for people who have completed a degree, diploma or another specified qualification.

• Check the exact qualification and academic requirements.
• Prepare your academic records if requested.
• Describe projects, teamwork and problem-solving examples.
• Explain why you are interested in the employer and field.
• Check whether the programme has assessments or multiple interviews.

Some graduate programmes are advertised as internships. Read the programme description instead of relying only on its title.

6. How to Avoid Recruitment Scams

Be cautious when an opportunity promises guaranteed employment or asks you to pay money to secure a job.

• Verify the vacancy on the employer's official website.
• Check whether the recruiter's email and contact details are credible.
• Be suspicious of pressure to pay recruitment or placement fees.
• Do not share banking PINs, passwords or one-time passwords.
• Be careful with identity documents and other sensitive information.
• Do not assume a professional-looking advert is genuine.

If you are unsure, contact the employer through independently verified contact details before sending documents or money.