How to show relevant experience when you are early in your career

Look beyond the job-title column

Early-career candidates often have more useful material than they think. Coursework, a student organisation, a freelance assignment, a personal build, a volunteer commitment, an internship or a part-time role can all show work habits and transferable skills.

The standard is not whether the experience was paid or prestigious. The standard is whether you can explain what you did, how you approached it and what came out of it.

Give each example a useful shape

A short example becomes stronger when it names the task, your contribution and the output. For example, “Worked on a university project” leaves the reader with little to assess. “Coordinated a three-person research project, analysed survey responses and presented findings to 40 students” gives a clearer view of planning, analysis and communication.

• Name the project or setting in plain language.
• State the part you personally owned or contributed.
• Describe the final output, learning or verified result.
• Connect the example to a capability requested in the target role.

Choose proof you can discuss in an interview

Anything on the CV should be something you can explain without rehearsing a fictional story. Keep a small portfolio of work samples, notes or outcomes where appropriate, and remove claims you would not be comfortable expanding on in an interview.

A role does not need to match every line of your CV. It should, however, be a realistic fit for your location, work eligibility and demonstrated strengths.

Read the portfolio-evidence guide →Browse current checked roles →