Building your CV – Studying is sadly no guarantee that you’ll find a good job once you graduate. That’s why it’s essential to put yourself ahead of the pack by having an excellent CV. Competition for top jobs is fierce. Students are graduating with top marks, job experience, excellent references and varied interests.

There are a number of things you can do now – while you’re still studying – to ensure you are able to find a good job after you graduate. Finding a job soon after you have graduated is essential, it ensures you’ll have money to pay your bills timeously and settle your student loans speedily, without ending up being under debt counselling.

Get a job

Completing part time or holiday work while studying, especially if it’s in your area of interest, will be hugely beneficial to you in the long run. Not only will you be earning an income while study but you’ll be able to gain some experience. It’s not easy to find a job while you’re young and inexperienced but with the right connections and some confidence, you’ll be able to get a foot in the door of the working world.

Volunteer

Employers love to see mention of volunteering on CVs. It shows a potential employer that you’re willing to work hard, that you’re charitable and caring, and that want to use your time wisely. In fact, a recent survey found that 1 in 5 hiring managers had hired a candidate because of their volunteer experience.

Tutor

This is an excellent way to pass along your knowledge to younger classmates. It has also been proven that teaching another person is an excellent way of learning. So, you’ll not only be helping your classmates to prepare for their exams, you’ll be learning the course material at the same time.

Campus activities

Getting involved in activities on campus shows you’re willing to get involved and keen to get your hands dirty. The best kind of campus activity to become involved with? One that somehow relates to your field of study. That way you’re gaining valuable experience and getting involved, all at the same time.

Study further

There is a world of study options available online. Find a complementary course which will teach you skills to further your experience and enhance your resume. Some options could include time management, conflict resolution or project management. All of these might not directly relate to what you’re studying but will be appealing to a potential employer.

Follow some of these tips and your CV will soon be filled with valuable experience which sets you apart from your classmates. Those potential employers and hiring managers won’t be able to resist snapping you up.