How to write an intern CV
The structure and content of an intern CV depends very much on what work experience you already have and how directly relevant that work experience is. If you have little or no previous finance experience, then you are going to have to present transferable skills and experiences. In this early stage of your career you can consider every experience you have including academic, voluntary, any office based work or other projects or initiatives you have been involved in.
Keep the most valuable information on the first page
Most attention will be spent on the first page of your CV so try and get all the most important information here. If your academic qualifications are your greatest strength, then place your education section after the professional profile. If you have several internships under your belt, then you may wish to have the career history section featured before your education so you can detail other relevant intern experiences. How you order the sections of your CV will vary depending on your own individual circumstances.
A skills-based CV format
If you have no relevant work experience, then you may choose a skills-based CV format. Choosing 4 or 5 skills-based headings, for example critical analysis or collaboration and teamwork, you can then cite 2 or 3 specific examples of how, where and when you have demonstrated these skills. Use facts and figures to describe the outcomes of your endeavours. Try to get this section on the front page of your CV.
Your CV has less than 30 seconds to work its magic
You have a very short window of opportunity to convince the reader in calling you to interview. So, write in a punchy and succinct manner. Keep the CV to no more than 2 pages. Use bullet points to break up information and make sure your headings a clearly labelled so the reader can quickly find the areas to concentrate on. It goes without saying your CV should contain no spelling mistakes or typos and look professional. Your CV is likely to be the first and only opportunity you have, so make the most of it and take the time to get it right.
This article is written by Neville Rose, Director of CV Writers.
CV Writers are the official CV partner to ACCA Careers.
In addition to a CV writing service they can help with LinkedIn profiles, cover letters and interview coaching. You can get things started with a Free CV Review