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How to write a CV when you have no work experience

By the JobFound team · Updated 24 September 2026

Almost everyone starts with an empty "Work experience" section. Employers hiring for learnerships, internships and entry-level jobs know this, they are not looking for years of experience. They are looking for signs that you are reliable, willing to learn and able to follow instructions. Your CV's job is to show those signs.

1. Start with a strong profile

Write two to four sentences at the top that say who you are and what you want. For example: "Recent NC(V) Office Administration graduate with strong Microsoft Office skills and a calm, friendly manner with customers. Looking for an admin or reception role where I can learn and grow." Change it a little for each job you apply for.

2. Put education first

When you don't have work experience, your education is your strongest section, so move it above experience. Include subjects that relate to the job, your average if it's good, and any awards, leadership roles or projects.

3. Count everything that is work

Experience isn't only formal jobs. These all belong on your CV:

  • In-service training or WIL placements
  • Helping in a family business, spaza shop or tuck shop
  • Piece jobs, seasonal or holiday work
  • Volunteering at church, a clinic, a school or a community project
  • Tutoring, coaching a sports team, or running a WhatsApp group for your class

For each one, write what you actually did: "Counted stock and served customers on weekends" is far stronger than "Helped at shop".

4. Make your skills specific

"Hard-working" and "team player" appear on every CV. Instead list things that can be checked: Microsoft Word and Excel, typing speed, cash handling, a driver's licence, the languages you speak, first aid, a forklift ticket.

5. Keep it clean and short

One or two pages is plenty. Use one simple font, clear headings and no photos of yourself unless the advert asks. Leave out your marital status, religion and full home address. Save it as a PDF so the layout doesn't break when you email it.

You can build exactly this kind of CV in about 10 minutes with our free CV Maker, no sign-up needed.