How to Write a CV for Entry-Level Jobs

Writing a CV when you’re just starting out can feel uncomfortable. You’re staring at a blank page, wondering how everyone else seems to have years of experience while you have none. The good news is that entry-level recruiters are not expecting a packed work history. They’re looking for potential, attitude, and signs that you can learn quickly. A strong entry-level CV focuses on what you can do, not what you have not done yet. With the right structure and wording, you can create a CV that feels confident, clear, and genuinely employable.

In this blog, we’ll break down what employers really look for on an entry-level CV, how you can showcase your education and skills, and how to format your CV for maximum impact. We’ll also include some entry-level CV examples to help you build a confident, job-ready application.

What counts as experience at entry level?

Experience at entry level is much broader than most people realise. Employers know you’re at the beginning of your career, so they look beyond traditional full-time roles. University projects, coursework, and group assignments all show how you work with others and manage deadlines. Volunteering demonstrates reliability and initiative. Part-time jobs prove time management and responsibility, even if the role was not directly related to your career goals.

Personal projects also matter more than people think. Running a small online shop, managing a social media account, or helping organise events all count as relevant experience when written correctly. The key is explaining what you did and what skills you gained. An entry-level CV works best when everyday responsibilities are framed as transferable strengths.

Key skills to emphasise on an entry-level CV

Skills play a starring role on any CV for entry-level roles. Employers want to see how you communicate, organise tasks, and solve problems. Soft skills such as teamwork, adaptability, and attention to detail are especially valuable at this stage. These qualities show that you can fit into a workplace and grow within a role.

Harder skills also deserve space on your entry-level CV, particularly the ones that are directly linked to the job you’re applying for. Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, or any other industry-specific software can make a huge difference. Instead of just listing skills without any context, make sure you tie them to real situations. 

Creating an effective entry-level CV format

When it comes to your entry-level CV format, education often takes priority over experience. If you’re a recent graduate or have just left school, your qualifications should sit nearer to the top of your CV. This section can include any relevant modules, coursework, or academic achievements that link to the role you’re applying for. Employers value insight into what you have studied, especially when it links directly to the position.

If you have some practical experience, even from short-term or part-time work, balance becomes important. You can still lead with education while using your experience section to highlight transferable skills. There is no single correct layout, but the best entry-level CV format presents your strongest selling points first. The goal is clarity, not perfection.

Entry-level CV examples

Looking at an entry-level CV example can make the process far less daunting. A strong entry-level CV sample usually starts with a short personal profile that explains career goals and key strengths. This is followed by education, skills, and any relevant experience. Each section is concise, focused, and easy to scan.

For example, an entry-level accounting CV might highlight numerical ability, attention to detail, and familiarity with basic accounting software. Academic projects involving budgets or financial analysis work well here. On the other hand, an entry-level admin CV will often focus on organisation, communication, and IT skills. Experience scheduling appointments, handling emails, or supporting teams would work well when clearly explained.

Across all entry-level CV examples, the structure stays simple. Clear headings, consistent formatting, and bullet points all make the document readable and easier to digest. Overly creative layouts tend to distract rather than impress. A clean CV for entry-level jobs will allow your content to speak for itself.

Download an entry-level CV template today

Applying for entry-level roles can feel intimidating, but your CV is just a snapshot of where you are right now. Focus on your skills, education, and experiences, however small they may seem. With the right entry-level CV format and a clear sense of direction, you can create a document that opens doors. 

If you’re ready to put our advice into action, be sure to download one of our professional entry-level CV templates for free from Scriberly today and create a clear, well-structured CV that gets noticed.