How do I fix my CV when I feel like I have nothing impressive to put on it?

Having helped in revamping 300+ CVs throughout my life - I believe I can comment on this. The CVs I have revamped range from zero to 18 years experience - across countries - across tiers of experience - and across personalities.

Unfortunately, there is no secret sauce to writing a good CV (except perhaps Google's XYZ formula). Every single CV has to be dealt with separately, and individually.

You are not alone with this feeling of inadequacy in writing your own CV - it plagues so many candidates. Most of them don't even feel it. They write a CV that they 'feel' works. Then they get it 'reviewed' by someone who also 'feels' it works. And life goes on.

The biggest challenge is translating your actual work into CV-worthy points. Often, candidates are so deep into the nitty-gritties of their work, that they forget how their small actions are having broader and bigger impacts to their organisations. Candidates often miss the point that CV is less of a "task-account" and more of a skill & impact showcase.

And ultimately, the final challenge is believing in yourself. If you believe your experience at the small local business is any lesser than someone's finance internship - then you have lost the battle before it begins. Sure, the differences in brand values will impact the stickiness of recruiter eyeballs. And if you feel that your work itself was also not worthy, then its probably best to run it by a coach to see if that is indeed true.

That said, you say "second year of uni" - means no full time experience yet as I understand. So you can't really expect your CV to be full of stellar-class experience. You have to build it over the next 10 years. Sure, you started small - but you can't make it big overnight - your work and efforts over the coming years will build it.

I apologise I cannot give more personalised comments on your CV's standing - but perhaps you can share it over messages and we can discuss what we can make out of it.

Hey,
you’re not the only one feeling this way. Honestly I think everybody feels like this at some point in their career. Either when they just start of right after school or when they switch jobs or careers. 

What matters is how you present what you do have. Even working at a small business can show ownership, reliability, and problem-solving. Focus on what you improved or learned, not just what your title was.

Also, think about quick wins going forward: join a student club, take part in a case comp, or start learning financial modeling. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just show that you’re proactive and developing.

A clear, honest CV with energy and structure can stand out more than one that tries too hard.

You’re on the right track!

Good luck. 

Rita