How to write a CV with bad grades

Writing an impressive CV is an essential part of finding a job, but what are you supposed to include on your CV if you got bad grades in your GCSEs or A-levels? 

Well, we’ll tell you. Luckily, grades aren’t everything. There are plenty of other things you can include on your CV that will impress employers. Regardless of how you’ve done in your exams. 

Focus your CV on transferable skills

Employers look for more than just qualifications; they’re interested in your soft skills, i.e. how you, as an individual, behave and work. These can include things like working well under pressure or your ability to problem solve. Just remember to provide tangible examples of when you displayed these skills to help support your CV. 

Include things you have learnt from part time work

Even if you haven’t decided on a career path just yet (because let’s be honest, who has), there are a tonnes of things you can do/write to make your CV mega-impressive. Firstly make the most of what you have done. That way employers will be more focused on the amazing stuff you’ve experienced rather than some letter/number on a piece of paper. 

And if you’ve worked somewhere part time before, you can use this as an opportunity to mention teamwork, punctuality and anything else that you might have learnt during your time working. It’s also really good to focus on the positive things you’ve achieved both at work and in your personal life.

Tailor your CV with a good covering letter

You’ll need to send out a slightly different CV to every company or organisation that you are applying to. That way it’ll be able to speak to the specific role you’re applying for. To do this, we’d recommend adding a personalised covering letter to each application. If you’re unsure what that is – we’ve got your back. Read this article for some tips for how to write a cover letter here.

Speak to a careers advisor

It might also be worthwhile speaking to a careers advisor. Your school, college or uni should have someone in that role or even a careers centre. With either of these, you’ll get guidance with your CV and job applications. The personal tutor that you mentioned should also be able to help you out with this. Especially as they seem quite keen to discuss the topic with you.

Things other than grades you can include on your CV

You can add a bunch of stuff to a CV beyond grades that employers will just eat up. In fact, it’s really important you let your character shine through in your CV. Remember, these people are going to be working with you day-in, day-out so they want to know that you’re a decent person. 

That’s why employers are interested in the whole package, rather than just your course results. So, make sure to emphasise the skills and experience you do have. Maybe even mention some of your hobbies to them as well. That way they can see what a well-rounded, awesome person you are. For more tips, you can check out our article on how to write a CV here and our CV checklist here.

Another thing to mention is any extracurriculars you’ve been a part of. They help demonstrate that you’re sociable and willing to participate. It’s also worth writing about any work experience you’ve done or achievements that you got. These are all a great way of making you stand out from the crowd. 

Voluntary work is also a huge plus for employers. They’ll see that you’ve got a love for giving back which makes you a pretty good person. Plus, volunteering usually involves developing some sort of skills – even if it’s just working as part of a team. Defo stuff you can milk on your CV. So, if that sounds like something you’d want to do, there are loads of volunteering opportunities out there, even some right here at The Mix, take a look here. 

But if you’re still worried about your grades, you should check out this article on coping with low GCSE results first.