As parents, we all want the best for our kids, especially when they’re entering the world of work after school or university. But here’s something to consider: encouraging them to gain real-world experience while still studying can make a huge difference when they eventually need to put together a CV.
It’s incredibly challenging to write a CV for a young adult who only has their matric or university results. Of course, academics are important, but employers also want to see initiative, drive, and hands-on experience. Whether it’s waitressing, babysitting, dog walking, running a small business on the side, or even helping with a relative’s social media – every little job counts! These aren’t just “odd jobs” – they’re opportunities to develop responsibility, communication skills, teamwork, and the ability to manage real tasks.
Encourage your kids to take on part-time work, internships, or volunteer roles while studying – it doesn’t matter how small the job may seem. It shows they aren’t just relying on the bank of mum and dad, but are learning how to earn their own way, which speaks volumes to future employers.
When it comes time to write a CV, having any work experience, no matter how small, can be cleverly worded to highlight their skills and work ethic. We’ve worked with students who have done internships, job shadowing, or simple jobs, and we turn that experience into something that reflects initiative and ambition. Employers don’t expect graduates to have tons of experience, but they do expect them to show a willingness to learn and contribute.
So, let’s encourage our kids to get out there, roll up their sleeves, and start building experiences now that will help them stand out later. It’s not about having a perfect career path – it’s about showing that they’re willing to put in the effort!