You have obtained your degree and you are ready to conquer the labour market. But how and where do you start? An impressive CV helps you stand out from other candidates and increases your chances of landing that ideal entry-level job. In this article, you will learn how to present yourself effectively to potential employers to find suitable work faster.
Creating a CV that stands out
For recent graduates, a CV is the first chance to make a good impression. As a starter, your work experience is usually limited, but your education, internships, and skills provide plenty of starting points to profile yourself professionally.
A professional CV consists of your personal details, a personal profile, education, internships or work experience, and skills. Below, we discuss each section with examples to help you on your way.
Personal details and contact information
The first part of your CV consists of your personal data and your contact information. State your full name, address, phone number, email address, and optionally your LinkedIn profile.
Example:
Name: Tom Jansen
Address: Jacobsstraat 12, 1234 AB Amsterdam
Phone number: +31 6 1234 5678
Email address: t.jansen@email.nl
LinkedIn profile: LinkedIn.com/in/tomjansen
Use an email address that contains your name, as in the example above, and update your personal details whenever necessary.
Depending on the style of your profile, you may choose to display your personal details in a separate block.
Personal profile or profile summary
The personal profile is also known as a profile summary. This section is a short introduction in which you explain who you are, what drives you, and what you are looking for. Place this section at the top of your CV.
Example:
“I am an ambitious starter with a bachelor's degree in psychology and a passion for organisational development. My goal is to apply my analytical skills and interest in human behaviour at an organisation that stimulates innovation and growth.”
Now that the reader knows what you are looking for, you can offer more insight into your educational background.
Education
Education is an important addition to any entry-level CV. Employers extract information about your knowledge and skills from this section. Also mention relevant projects or subjects that align with the position you are applying for.
Example:
Bachelor of Business Administration – Erasmus University Rotterdam (2020 – 2024)
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Specialisation: Strategic management and innovation
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Projects: Strategic growth plan for a local SME: Together with two teammates, I developed a strategy that led to 15% revenue growth.
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Achievements: Researched the impact of sustainability in the logistics sector and how this can provide companies with a competitive advantage.
If you have obtained an important certificate in addition to your diploma, you can also include it in this section.
Example:
Certificate: Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
Do you want to add multiple certificates? Then you can include them in a separate section.
Internships or work experience
Internships provide practical experience and show that you can apply your knowledge. Briefly describe your responsibilities and mention concrete results to effectively communicate your performance.
Example:
Digital Marketing Intern, Bol (January 2024 – June 2024)
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Customer data analysis and the optimisation of social media advertisements.
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Achieved a 20% increase in conversion through targeted A/B testing.
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Supported the marketing team in preparing social media reports.
Skills
Your skills demonstrate what you can contribute, which is why this information is crucial for employers. This section shows how well you fit the job and that you can meet the job requirements.
Example:
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Digital skills: Data analysis and search engine optimisation (SEO).
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Language skills: Fluent in Dutch and English, with basic knowledge of French.
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Other skills: Experienced in project management and statistical analysis.
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Personal traits: Flexible, creative, and empathetic.
5 job application tips to improve your chances of success
A CV must be clear and specific. You want it to fit the position and encompass your knowledge and experience well. Below, we share five tips to use during your application process.
1. Update your CV for every application
Employers look for candidates who fit the specific requirements of a vacancy. Therefore, one standard CV is not a good solution. Tailor your CV to every application. Read the vacancy text carefully and use the tone and keywords that appear in it.
Avoid information that is not relevant to the position. If "project management skills" are requested, emphasise this in your CV with an explanation or examples.
2. Make use of online platforms for your CV and applications
To find relevant job openings, you need to know where to look. You can use platforms specifically aimed at starters and young professionals.
On the Jobseeker platform, you will find vacancies across various sectors, with handy filters to quickly discover suitable roles. You will also find informative articles and a student CV example to get you inspired.
Various online platforms make applying easier. Choose the right combination to find a job that fits you.
3. Network effectively to find a job faster
In addition to public vacancies, recruiters often proactively search for suitable candidates. Actively use your network to ensure you are found. You can do this on LinkedIn by indicating on your profile that you are open to new opportunities. Don't just wait around; send recruiters a friendly message on LinkedIn to start a conversation. Furthermore, connect with former fellow students, internship supervisors, experienced professionals, and recruiters.
Finding a suitable job can also happen offline, for example by visiting career fairs and alumni events where you can meet employers and make new contacts.
4. Prepare thoroughly for every step of the application process
In the Netherlands, directness is usually appreciated during job interviews. Expect questions about your motivation, skills, and work experience. Employers may also propose an assignment or test to assess your abilities. In addition to a strong CV, effective preparation involves doing your research and practicing answers to frequently asked questions.
5. Be patient and keep developing yourself
Finding a suitable job often takes time. Use this period to further develop yourself and add value to your CV. This can be done by following training and courses in skills such as the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or data analysis.
Are you being rejected due to a lack of work experience? Consider doing voluntary work or taking on internships to gain practical experience. Such activities can convince employers that you are ambitious and eager to learn.
Move towards your professional future with confidence
The Dutch labour market offers many opportunities. To seize them, you must enter the application process well-equipped. Utilise online platforms and leverage your network to find your ideal job. Then, with a strong CV, you can take the first step towards a promising career.