Writing a CV for an apprenticeship is just as important as writing any other CV, so long as the time is taken to ensure that you have tailored it to the needs and desires of the job specification. The main theme of this type of CV is ensuring that you put across your willingness to learn a trade and develop new skills; that is what an apprenticeship is all about.
Ensure a good solid introduction heads your CV
It needs to include:
- Name and contact details
- Personal profile
- Attributes and ambitions – Try to keep them as relevant to the job as possible but explain what skills and qualities you have that might make them want to employ you.
- Interest in trade – It’s important to show you have the hunger and desire to learn more about the trade you are applying for. Keep it brief but express the reason for your interest.
The nature of apprenticeships is that you are starting something new and want to develop and learn the skills of a specific trade. Therefore, employers aren’t necessarily looking for a wealth of experience. It’s vital that you stress your willingness to learn.
Standard of apprenticeship – When applying for an apprenticeship, you need to know the standard of qualification you hope to obtain. This will be important when tailoring your CV to suit the apprenticeship you are applying for. The employer will expect you to know the qualification you desire, whether it’s level 2, 3 or 4.
Ensure you detail any work experience on your CV, especially if it’s of relevance to the employers’ trade. Explain your duties at that job and emphasise the specific area of that job which makes it relevant to the desired qualities of the employer.
Selling yourself to the employer is the key in an apprenticeship CV. Ensure that you include any skills that you feel you possess that are relevant to both the apprenticeship description but also the trade in general.
Ensure when referencing your CV that you have somebody who knows you well and has good knowledge of your skills and personality. Try to ensure they have a copy of the job description as well as your CV.
The main focus of writing a CV for an apprenticeship doesn’t differ too much from a regular CV. Always remember the importance of keeping the content as relevant to the employers needs as possible. By ensuring this you will massively improve your chances of making it to the next stage of the selection process.