CV Examples For Students Wanting A Part-Time Job
We get it, writing a CV for the first time can feel like trying to squeeze your entire life onto one page. But don’t stress - we’ve got you covered.
A well-crafted CV is your ticket to landing a part-time job, so let’s break it down step by step.
Want a Part-Time Job Without a CV?
Some part-time roles don’t require a CV - find flexible jobs you can do from home.
Do You Need a CV For A Part-Time Job?
Most part-time jobs, whether in retail, hospitality, or admin, will require a CV.
Some casual gigs like babysitting, tutoring, or freelance work might not - but having a CV ready is always a good idea.
What Type of Jobs Require A CV?
If you're applying for roles in retail, hospitality, customer service, or office administration, chances are you'll need a CV. Employers in these industries want to see what experience, skills, and qualifications you bring to the table.
Jobs like barista, retail assistant, receptionist, or call centre representative typically require one, as they involve customer interaction, handling transactions, or using specific tools and software.
However, some informal or gig-based jobs might not ask for a CV.
Babysitting, dog walking, tutoring, and food delivery often rely on personal recommendations, online platforms, or quick application processes.
Similarly, freelance work like graphic design, writing, or virtual assistance often looks at a portfolio or work samples instead of a traditional CV. But even if a job doesn’t explicitly ask for one, having a CV ready can still help you stand out and show you’re serious about the opportunity.
What Is a CV?
A CV (short for Curriculum Vitae) is a short, written summary of your experience, skills, and achievements. It’s usually the first thing employers see, so it needs to make a great first impression.
But What Exactly Should You Put In A CV?
When writing your CV, it is important to highlight whatever skills or experiences you have that are most relevant to the role.
For example, for a general part-time job, you may want a CV that has a more generalised account of your experience.
For a specific part-time job, emphasise any experience and skills relevant to that role to help you stand out from the crowd. If you feel that you lack work experience, don’t worry. There are plenty of things you can include that will still help you secure the role.
Example Elements Of A CV
Ok, so you know what a CV needs to do. But how do you write it? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Personal Information And Contact Details
First things first, a CV should include a comprehensive account of your personal and contact details. This includes your full name, location and contact information. Additionally, this should include your professional social media profiles, such as a LinkedIn profile.
Make sure this information is accurate and up to date. It can be presented in a simple, listed format. For example:
Full Name
Location
Address
Social Media Profile Links
Introduction
Before you go into your skills and experience, start by writing a short paragraph about yourself. I know, sounds cringe, but it has to be done!
Include key character traits, passions and hobbies, highlighting yourself as an ideal candidate.
Ensure this paragraph is short and concise to allow space for the remaining information.
Education
Education should be listed in reverse chronological order. Begin with the most recent, listing in a simple and easy-to-read format. E.g:
Example:
- Greenwood High School (2020–Present)
- Predicted Grades: A in Business Studies, B in English
- Head of the Computer Science Club
- Member of the Student Association for Computing
Below this, you can also list relevant projects, positions or academic achievements to help you show off:
- e.g. Head of the computer science club
- e.g. Active member of the Student Association for Computing
- e.g. Received Promising Student Scholarship to study business development
Skills
Using the skills section of your CV is important to help you stand out. While you may have niche skills like juggling or magic tricks, try and list skills that would be useful to the job at hand.
Format these in a simple list, starting with the most relevant. When applying for a job, think about what you can offer that company. For example:
Languages
Specific Software / Computer Skills
Leadership
Project Management
Communication
Make sure to have specific examples to support when you have demonstrated these skills. This can help you stand out at the interview stage.
Work Experience
Next, work experience. This section will make up the primary bulk of your CV. Start with your most recent or current position and work backwards.
The description should include the name of the organisation, dates of employment, and a brief description of responsibilities and achievements. For example:
e.g. Social Media Junior Marketing Manager
e.g. Johnsons Market & Me Ltd
London, UK
April 2019 - June 2022
- Assisting with brainstorming innovative marketing strategies for company clients
- Designing and implementing SEO strategies for beauty brands
- Leading a small team to prepare campaign reports
This section should be concluded with a mention that “references are available on request”. However, the recruiter will likely only ask for these if you get through to the next stage.
Volunteering
If you have had the opportunity to get involved in volunteering programmes, make sure you create a section that highlights this. Volunteering can demonstrate that you are passionate and proactive about how you spend your time. For example:
e.g. Part-Time Shop Assistant
e.g. Johnson Wills Charity
London, UK
May 2018 - December 2019
- Assisting manager with the day-to-day running of the shop to maximise sales (give specific examples with figures)
- Working in a team to create marketing strategies to increase awareness of the cause
- Handling of social media (Instagram, Twitter) to increase visibility and audience
Certifications & Online Courses
If you’ve completed any relevant certifications or online courses, include them here. Employers value candidates who take the initiative to learn new skills.
Example:
- Google Digital Garage – Fundamentals of Digital Marketing (2023)
- First Aid Certification – British Red Cross (2022)
- Introduction to Coding – Codecademy (2021)
Writing The Best Part-Time CV
It is important to tailor your CV to the part-time job you are applying for. But regardless of this, it is just as important that the CV is neat, clear and easy to read.
The layout should be consistent in terms of font, size and spacing.
Remember, your CV is your chance to impress. So, don’t be shy about sprinkling in some not-so-modest brags here and there. Employers may go through stacks of CVs for a position. This is your chance to show off!
Want to secure a job that doesn't require a CV? Sign up to Prograd today.
