Category: Apprentice Playbook – Work

Building Your Apprentice CV: A Q&A with PurpleCV

Building a good electrical apprentice CV is one of the first steps towards succeeding early in your career. Knowing where to start can be tricky, so we sat down with the experts from PurpleCV to learn the tips and tricks for making your CV stand out and make a great impression.

Q1: I have no work experience. What should I highlight in my CV instead?

There are many things that can qualify you for a role besides just work experience or internships, such as:

• Volunteer work
• Community projects
• Extracurricular activities
• Academic projects

Read the job description carefully to understand what skills and qualities the employer is looking for and highlight the ones that fit you best on your CV.

If you’re a recent graduate, you can highlight any relevant coursework, university projects or extracurricular activities.

For example, include what the goal of the project was, what you did to achieve the result, and what you did in particular to make it a success. This will look great on your CV, even if you don’t have experience in the particular industry.

Q2: Should I include a personal statement?

You should include a personal statement on your CV, it’s a great way to add impact.

Your personal statement allows you to introduce your CV as if you were presenting it in person. You can use it to draw attention to the most important parts of your CV immediately.

Tackle your personal statement last, after you’ve put together the rest of your CV. That way, you can draw on the best bits of information you cover later in more detail on your CV.

Break down your personal statement into three sections:

1. Who you are: A sentence or two summing up your education, experience and interests
2. What you can offer: Talk about specific skills, knowledge and experience
3. Your career aim: End off with a line or two about the next steps you want to take. What role, organisation or challenge do you think would be right for you?

Good personal statements are succinct – stick to a maximum of five to six lines. If it’s too long, it may be too complicated.

Q3: What are the biggest “red flags” to avoid when writing my CV?

Some common CV mistakes that could make hiring managers lose interest straight away include:

• Spelling and grammar mistakes: Double check your CV multiple times for typos and grammar errors. Get someone else to proofread as well, just to be safe. Don’t only use in-built checking tools, which sometimes fail to ‘sense check’ if words are being used in the right context.
• Clichés: Some phrases are so overused on CVs, they end up losing their meaning. Don’t use unnecessary adjectives just to fill space such as ‘dedicated team player’. Stick to specific examples and concrete facts.
• Generalisations: To avoid generalising about your achievements, list specific examples of tasks and what you were responsible for. Include figures and statistics to back them up if you can.

Other red flags include using an unusual CV format, using elaborate font and giving an email address that doesn’t sound professional.

Q4 Should my CV be tailored to each role I apply for?

Yes, your CV should be tailored to each role you apply for.

Tailoring your CV shows employers that you are a serious candidate and that you really want to work for them. Most hiring managers can spot a generic CV.

• Read the job description thoroughly to make sure you fully understand what the employer is looking for and what the role requires.
• Highlight keywords and specific skills listed in the job description and include them in your CV where relevant.
• Make the most relevant parts of your CV visible. Tailoring your CV allows you to make the skills and experience you have appear to the best advantage.
• Rework the order of your CV so the most relevant experience comes first. You need to make an impact right from the get-go, so lead with what’s most likely to catch the hiring manager’s eye.

Research the company itself as well. See if you can find out anything about the company’s values and culture. Try to include any information that helps show why you would fit in.

Q5: Should I include a cover letter?

Even if a cover letter is not requested as part of the job application, we recommend that you include one in your application. The extra effort you’ve taken shows that you’re enthusiastic.

While your CV explains the facts, your cover letter gives you the chance to show potential employers more of your personality.

This personal introduction is a great way to build on the information in your CV and show why you’re a great candidate for the role.

For many employers, a cover letter is important – particularly in entry-level and graduate positions where experience and skill levels may be similar across candidates.

Q6: Does using AI to write it help or hinder my CV?

It’s very easy for hiring managers to spot CVs written by AI and there are many reasons why relying on it can set you back.

• A lot of AI CVs use a similar writing style. When a hiring manager is only looking for a few CVs to shortlist, generic AI CVs will be among the first ones they reject.
• You need to understand why you’re a strong candidate for the role and what the employer is looking for. Then write the CV accordingly, with the key points made strongly. AI tools don’t know you or the employer well enough to make any judgement calls.
• Many employers put CVs through AI checkers and reject them automatically.

With the right prompts, AI can help with ideas. But otherwise, our advice is not to use AI for CV writing.

How to Prepare for an Electrical Apprentice Interview

Preparing for an electrical apprentice interview can be daunting. We spoke to Joe Price from Goodwin and Price about what he looks for when interviewing an apprentice, and the qualities that help candidates stand out.

Industry Knowledge

Although he doesn’t expect candidates to have extensive technical knowledge, Joe says it’s important to demonstrate knowledge of the industry you’re going into.

“We are more interested in what they know about the industry,” Joe says, “they must have some knowledge of the type of work we do, such as commercial or industrial.”

Some ways to demonstrate this include researching the company and sector you’re interviewing for, keeping up to date with the latest industry news, and using that knowledge to support your interview answers.

Ideal Qualities

Joe outlines the three key qualities that he looks for in an apprentice: punctuality, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn.

“Punctuality is a must as sites are often on a strict time limit,” Joe explains.

Being punctual also demonstrates commitment and reliability, so make sure to show up early to your interview.

“Enthusiasm is important as days on site can be long,” stresses Joe. When the job gets tough, he wants to know you’ve got the passion to see yourself and your coworkers through those longer days.

“Willingness to learn is very important,” Joe adds. “The rules and regulations around electrical work are constantly changing, and it is important to stay up to date.”

Ideal Skills and Experience

“Attitude is the main thing we look for as we understand experience isn’t really a thing when you are just entering the industry,” says Joe.

“It’s more about a good level of English and Maths, along with a high level of common sense, especially when it comes to health and safety on site.”

Joe also says that having a driving licence is beneficial, as sites can be anywhere in the UK.

How to Stand Out

When it comes to making yourself stand out from the rest, Joe says it comes down to personality, rather than experience. He looks for people who can work well with others and adapt to different environments.

“You may have to work with a different person on a different site every day, so being able to adjust to new people and working environments is very important,” he says.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Joe says the key to acing an interview is demonstrating confidence and genuine understanding. Two common red flags he sees in interviews are a lack of preparation and rehearsed answers.

“Lack of confidence is a big red flag,” says Joe. “You can usually tell when someone hasn’t prepared,” he says, “but also, using long, rehearsed answers that you can tell they don’t fully understand.”

What Questions Should You Ask the Interviewer?

Joe says candidates stand out when they ask questions that show enthusiasm and eagerness to get started.

“It is always good when candidates ask about the time frame for feedback, as it shows an eagerness to get started.”

Preparing for an electrical apprentice interview is about enthusiasm, reliability, industry awareness, and a willingness to learn. Memorising answers is one thing, but what makes a candidate truly stand out is demonstrating confidence and understanding.

Researching the company beforehand, preparing thoughtful questions, and showing confidence in your interview give you the best chance to stand out against other candidates.

If you’re looking for more advice, explore the rest of The Apprentice Playbook here.

And if you’re currently on the lookout for a job in the industry, head to our Jobs Page to see which companies are currently recruiting.

Advice from a Pro: Securing a Job and Making a Good Impression

Breaking into the electrical industry, and building a long-term career within it, takes more than just qualifications. So what do employers in the industry look for when they’re hiring a beginner?

We chatted to Elliot Tierney, Director at EAT Electrical Solutions and member of the Electrical Industries Charity’s Emerging Professionals Board, to get his expert advice on landing an apprenticeship, securing a job after qualifying, and making the right impression once you’re in the role.

What advice do you have for those who are struggling to land an apprenticeship? 

Elliot says it’s all about showing initiative and genuine interest in the trade.

“Offer to do some free onsite work experience, it shows that you really want to do the job. This is the best way to sell yourself to a company.

Also, Keep believing that an opportunity will come around and don’t give up. My apprentices have come from people doing the full-time course at college; for me, it shows they have an interest in working in this industry.”

What’s the best way to ensure you secure a job after your apprenticeship ends?

Treat your apprenticeship like a real job, because that’s what it is.

“Like any Job, do your best. Even though you are an apprentice, you are still an employee. If you have the right attitude and commitment to your career, then surely, they will want you to keep working for them?”

What is the most important quality for beginner sparkies to have that will help them in their future work? 

According to Elliot, a commitment to continuous learning is what separates good electricians from great ones.

“The industry is huge, and there is always something new to keep up to date with or learn in this industry. Just because you now have a level 3 qualification or NVQ doesn’t mean you’re done. Keep learning, keep expanding your knowledge and find YOUR niche within this industry. You will have so many people tell you there isn’t enough work. However, if you find your niche, you will always have work and to be honest there is lots of work in this industry.”

What is something you know now that you wish you’d known when you were an apprentice? 

Looking back, Elliot stresses the importance of focus and patience.

“Don’t get drawn into playing around at college, especially with those who have been pushed into the industry. Get through your apprenticeship as quickly as you can.

Also, it took a while for everything to click even after qualifying. One day, a switch will go on in your brain and you will start to understand how it all works, so don’t be so hard on yourself. Just turn up every day and do the stuff you can control.”

What are some common mistakes apprentices make early on, and how can they avoid them?

A lack of initiative is one of the biggest pitfalls Elliot sees with those starting out in their career.

“Standing around and waiting to be told what to do, this irritates most Electricians and clients. There is always something to do in a business, so keep asking, ‘What can I do next?’

Be brave and ask if you can do a certain task. Most of us tradesmen are hands-on learners, so we learn by doing the job. However, the electrician needs to have trust in you to be able to do the work, so your attitude needs to be right.”

What’s the best way to handle criticism from supervisors or colleagues? 

Criticism is tough, but it’s an essential part of growth.

“It’s hard these days because a lot of people take things personally, as let’s face it, no one wants to be criticised. I will admit it, sometimes I will be having a bad day and I may say something a bit out of turn, especially if you have done something to cost me money. However, it depends on how you react to a mistake and if you try to rectify it. The worst thing you can do is not tell me your mistake.

Also, I want to know how you are going to sort your mistake. If you make a mistake, suck it up, let’s move on together in the right way. I personally would never hold a grudge or sack someone for making a mistake; we are all human, and it’s how we learn. “

What’s the hardest part of the job that people don’t talk about? 

Starting out in the industry can feel challenging at times, but no apprentice has to navigate it alone. If you ever feel overwhelmed at any point in your career, remember that support is available. The Electrical Industries Charity offers guidance, resources, and a helping hand when you need it most, so don’t hesitate to reach out and make use of the support available to you.

Surviving Your First Year as an Apprentice

Being a newbie in any work environment can be overwhelming. There’s often pressure to make a strong first impression, while also managing the challenge of learning on the job. For apprentices, this balancing act can be especially intense.

We chatted to our Apprentice Ambassador, Ben Doll, about how he secured his apprenticeship and asked him to share his practical advice for not just landing a role, but thriving in your first year.

For those thinking of applying for an apprenticeship, what advice would you give on making their application stand out?

Ben emphasises the importance of persistence and passion.

“I would say to be persistent with work experience and applications. Potential employers want to see that you’re committed, so show them you are genuinely interested in the industry and passionate about working to become an electrician.”

What advice would you give to someone who keeps getting rejected?

Rejection can be discouraging, but Ben encourages applicants to treat it as part of the process rather than a setback.

“Keep trying. Speak to as many companies as you can so you can understand what they look for and why you may be getting rejected. Also, make sure your CV is strong and will stand out from the bog standard.”

What surprised you most when you first started your apprenticeship?

Ben says starting an apprenticeship brings so much new information to you all day, every day.

“I was surprised by how much you learn in a short space of time, and how many different things you do day-to-day.”

What does a typical day as an apprentice look like for you?

According to Ben, no two days are the same.

“Early starts and a variety of work, every day is different for the most part. Sometimes you’re working independently on smaller tasks, and other times you’re helping with the bigger jobs. You’re also always thinking of documenting your work – like taking photos for the NVQ aspect of college.”

What are your top three tips for surviving the first year as an apprentice?

1. Work hard – Show a strong work ethic and willingness to learn every day
2. Don’t be shy – Confidence helps you learn and build relationships
3. Listen well – Taking in information properly will make learning so much easier