How to boost your CV during the school holidays

Getting any kind of summer job, even if it’s not directly related to the career you’re interested in, will immediately boost your CV.

When you leave school, college or university and start applying for jobs, employers will want to see that you have built up a range of transferable skills.

Whether it’s working at a local shop or café or helping out at the family business, you’re sure to develop solid skills in teamwork, communication, customer service and time management. These can all be put to use in a wide range of industries.

See How to find a summer job for ideas on where to look for work.

Not only does volunteering show that you’re a hardworking and generous person, but you could also build up experience that is highly relevant to your future career goals.

Would you enjoy a career that involves working with animals? Contact your local animal shelter and ask if you can volunteer over the summer. Would you like to pursue a career that involves helping others? Try approaching a care home in your area to offer a helping hand.

Volunteering opportunities are endless – you’re sure to find something that suits your interests. And if you’re not quite sure what you want to do in the future, it’ll still show a fantastic work ethic!

See Get volunteering for more ideas.

Is there something you’ve always wanted to learn but haven’t had the chance? The school holidays are the perfect time to do it! The more skills you have and can talk about, the more interesting your CV will become.

How about learning to play a musical instrument, working on your photography skills or attending a creative writing class? Picking up new skills is an invaluable way to show your initiative and boost your employability.

See Easy ways to learn new skills to find out more.

When you start to apply for jobs, you might not have much work experience – but hobbies and interests can be a great addition to your CV.

If you’re already a member of a sports team or other club, sign up for all the extra holiday sessions that you can and really give it your all. And if you’re not part of any yet, why not make it your holiday goal to join one?

Being an active member of a club or team shows that you’re a committed, reliable team player. Employers will see this as a huge plus point.

So, start planning your school holidays now by looking for part-time jobs, volunteering opportunities, classes or interesting clubs. Your future self will thank you!

Andrew Fennell is the founder of the CV-writing advice website StandOut CV. He is a former recruitment consultant and contributes career advice to websites like Business Insider, The Guardian and FastCompany.

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