Why is your CV so important?

Starting your career begins with your CV

As a student, you might be focused on exams, lectures, and deadlines, but have you thought about your CV lately? Your CV isn’t just a document. It’s your personal ticket to professional opportunities. Whether you’re looking for your first part-time job, an internship, or a work student position, your CV is what makes employers want to meet you!

In 2025, recruiters spend just a few seconds scanning each CV. That means the way you present yourself on paper can decide whether you move forward or get overlooked. A strong CV helps you stand out and shows that you’re ready to take the next step. Recruit a Student can help you make that happen.

Why does your CV matter so much when applying for jobs?

Your CV is the first thing employers see when you apply for a job. It’s your personal introduction, including a quick summary of your skills, education, and experience. In just a few seconds, recruiters decide whether they want to know more about you or not. That’s why your CV is so important. Your CV is the first chance to stand out.

In 2025, competition for student jobs is strong. Employers receive dozens of applications for every open position, so a clear and professional CV helps you get noticed. Whether you’re applying for a part-time job, an internship, or a work student position, a good CV shows you’re serious, motivated, and ready to learn.

What makes a good CV for students?

A strong CV doesn’t have to be very long, but it should be clear, complete, and tailored to the job you want. Here’s what it should include:

• Personal information: your name, contact details, and LinkedIn profile if you have one.

• Education: previous and current study programs, university or college, and graduation year.

• Work experience: student jobs, internships, or volunteer work that show your skills.

• Skills: for example, teamwork, communication, languages, or software knowledge.

• Achievements: any awards, certificates, or projects you’re proud of.

Tip: always adjust your CV slightly for each job. Highlight experiences that fit the specific role.

Do you need help in creating your cv? You can use our free CV templates here!

How can you make your CV stand out from other students?

Competition among students can be tough. To make your CV stand out:

• Use action verbs such as “organized,” “created,” or “managed.”

• Include results where possible (for example, “helped increase sales by 20%”).

• Keep the layout clean and easy to scan.

• Match your wording with the keywords used in the vacancy description.

When you apply through Recruit a Student, our team helps you highlight your strongest points so your CV immediately attracts attention from employers. 

Should you include a photo on your CV?

Including a photo on your CV is optional, but it can make your application more personal. In the Netherlands and Belgium, many students do add a professional photo. Just be sure to keep your photo simple, clean and friendly. Avoid selfies or filters in your CV photo. You want to look approachable and professional. However, keep in mind that a strong layout and clear structure are way more important than any design elements.

What mistakes should you avoid on your CV?

Even small errors can make a recruiter skip your CV instantly. Common mistakes students make include:

• Typos or grammar mistakes. Be sure to check your CV a few times and ask your parents or friends to check it too. 

• An unprofessional email address. It's very easy to make a new email address that you can use for job applications, etc. 

• Long, hard-to-read paragraphs. Keep your information summarized, short, and clear. 

• Forgetting to update your details. It is especially important to keep your contact information up to date, but the same goes for your education and work experience. 

• Using the same CV for every application. Adjust your CV to each job you apply for, even if it's just small changes. 

At Recruit a Student, we often see students miss out on opportunities because of small details. Our recruiters can help you check and improve your CV before it reaches employers! 

How do recruiters read your CV?

Recruiters typically scan the top section of your CV first. This section should include your name, education, and main skills. That’s why this part should be clear and easy to read. Use headings, bullet points, and short sentences to direct attention to the essential information. 

A recruiter usually decides within 10 seconds whether to keep reading, so make those first lines count! Highlight what makes you unique, and make sure your CV matches the job you’re applying for.

How does a strong CV help you find the right student job? 

A professional CV helps recruiters immediately see what kind of work suits you best. When you apply via Recruit a Student, our team matches your skills and interests with the right employers. With a clear CV, we can find you a flexible job that fits perfectly with your studies. Whether it's in marketing, logistics, finance, IT, or any other sector.

Because Recruit a Student has been active since 1999, we have a huge network of companies all over the Netherlands and Belgium. That means new vacancies are added daily, giving you more chances to find a job that matches your study and goals.

How often should you update your CV?

Your CV should grow as you do. Update it every few months, especially after completing a project, internship, or gaining a new skill. That way, when an exciting vacancy appears, you’ll be ready to apply immediately! When competition is tough, you have no time to lose. Keep your CV up-to-date and apply for your next opportunity today via Recruit a Student.

What if you don't have much experience yet?

Don’t worry if you don't have much work experience yet. Everyone starts somewhere. If you have not had a job before, you can focus on your strengths instead:

• Group projects or assignments from your studies.

• Volunteering or activities at your student association or sports club.

• Hobbies or personal projects that show initiative, creativity and amibition.

Recruiters understand that students are still learning so they don't expect students to have a lot of work experience. What matters most is showing your motivation and potential for the specific job.

How can your student job improve your future CV?

Every job you take as a student adds value to your CV. Even part-time work teaches you valuable skills like:

• Time management

• Teamwork and communication

• Problem solving

• Customer service and adaptability

These experiences make your CV stronger and show future employers that you’re proactive and reliable.

Want to know more about how part-time work can boost your career? Check out flexible student jobs via Recruit a Student.

How can Recruit a Student help improve your CV?

When you register via Recruit a Student, our recruiters can give you personal tips on how to make your CV stronger. They know what companies are looking for and how to make your personal (work) experience stand out. You’ll also get access to exclusive vacancies for students and recent graduates!

By building experience through flexible student jobs, you not only earn extra money but also develop valuable skills that make your CV even stronger. This can help you land an internship or a full-time job after graduation. 

The advantages of finding a job via Recruit a Student

• Flexible hours that fit around your study schedule.

• Personal guidance from experienced recruiters.

• Nationwide network in the Netherlands and Belgium.

• Daily new vacancies in every sector.

• The chance to grow into a permanent position after graduation.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Check our vacancies or register directly at Recruit a Student.

FAQ – Why is your CV so important?

1. Do I need a CV for a student job?

Yes, even for part-time jobs you need a CV. Your CV helps recruiters quickly understand who you are and what you can do.

2. What should I put on my CV if I have no work experience?

If you have no work experience, focus on your education, skills and activities that show teamwork and responsibility. Highlight these on your CV. 

3. How long should my CV be?

For students, a one page CV is usually enough. Make your CV clear, focused and easy to read. Keep your CV to a maximum of one page.