How To Write The Experience Section Of Your CV

Writing the experience section can be daunting as it takes up the bulk of your resume highlighting detailed information about your employment history. This section of your CV is where you showcase your previous jobs, experience, and skills that can land you job opportunities in Kenya. It needs to be accurate, articulate, and highlight why you are the right candidate for the prospective position you are applying for.

Determining what should be included in your work experience section and how to write and format is extremely crucial. Keep reading for an easy guide on how to write the experience section of your CV along with some tips and tricks.

Highlight targeted results for job opportunities in Kenya

Hiring managers and future employers know the basics. Bullet points should focus on how you specifically managed previous positions successfully. In addition, make sure you are listing your previous experience in reverse chronological order with your most relevant and recent experience first.

Often, full-time job opportunities in Kenya serve as the primary content for your experience section, but you can include internships, volunteer work, temporary gigs, and part-time jobs emphasizing skills that match the job description.

Pro Tip: If you’ve just recently graduated or have little to no work experience, factor in your college training before your work experience. This will help showcase your value to hiring managers.

Use action verbs and keywords 

Capturing the reader’s interest is very important. Instead of overusing adjectives – which is easy to do – use action verbs to highlight your abilities and accomplishments at past jobs. For example, pioneered, transformed or negotiated. Remember to NEVER include criticism about previous positions.

Additionally, incorporate relevant keywords applicable to specific job requirements for applicant tracking systems otherwise known as ATS, used by recruiters to find the best matches for open roles. 

Quantify Key achievements from previous job opportunities in Kenya

Numbers say everything! They are specific, clear, and factual. It is a great way to wow potential employers by proving your value and commitment to success. You should also ensure all dates and employment details are factual and add up.

Professional courses and training programs

Skills acquired from professional courses and training programs in prior jobs show initiative and commitment to career progression, highlighting abilities that can be an asset to potential employers.

Promotions and Awards

If you received any awards or promotions from past jobs, make sure they shine through on your CV. Focus on your strengths and any transferable skills applicable to the job you are bidding for. This will not only pick your hiring manager’s attention but also illustrate you can excel in various job opportunities in Kenya

How much work experience should I include in my CV?

It is recommended to list up to fifteen years of relevant experience on your CV. However, whilst recruiters and employers want to see your work history and understand your expertise and skills, you DO NOT need to list every job you’ve ever had. Make sure you only cover key experiences directly related to prospective job opportunities in Kenya.

On the other hand, entry-level candidates with little to no professional experience should list experiences from internships, part-time jobs, temporary gigs, and volunteer work. Prioritize experiences that speak to your professional brand and align with the job you are applying for. In case of a significant employment gap when seeking job opportunities in Kenya, it is critical to provide a valid reason with corresponding dates. 

Experience section run down

1. Name the company.
2. Add specific dates of employment.
3. Write a brief description of work responsibilities.
4. Use keywords relating to the job description.
5. Describe quantifiable achievements demonstrating value and success.

In conclusion, make sure you; keep it brief, choose an organized template, distinguish yourself and always check spelling and grammar. For more tips and tricks head over to our website at https://www.elevolt.co.ke/or check out our Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/elevolt.ke/