Your post-NYSC career toolkit
Everything you need to present yourself well — CV, LinkedIn, and interview prep. Free, practical, no fluff.
First impressions
Build a CV that gets you through the first cut
✓ Do include
- One page for under 3 years of experience
- PDF format — always
- Professional email address (firstname.lastname@gmail)
- Describe your NYSC role with action verbs and results
- List relevant certifications and online courses
- Include a short professional summary at the top
✗ Don't include
- Don't include a passport photo
- Don't list your date of birth or marital status
- Don't include WAEC/NECO if you have a degree
- Don't use tables or columns — ATS systems hate them
- Don't list references — just write 'Available on request'
- Don't use fonts smaller than 10pt
How to write about your NYSC year
Start with an action verb. Quantify where possible. "Managed inventory records for 200+ SKUs" beats "I was responsible for inventory."
File naming matters
Name your file Firstname_Lastname_CV.pdf — not "CV Final Final v3.pdf". This signals attention to detail before they even open it.
Common mistakes that get you screened out
Typos, inconsistent formatting, email addresses that sound unprofessional, and no tailoring to the specific role.
Tailoring for each role
Mirror keywords from the job description in your CV. If they say 'stakeholder management', use those exact words if you have the experience.
Your toolkit is ready. Is your safety net?
A great CV and LinkedIn profile gets you the job. But the 3–4 months between your last allawee and your first salary? That's what savings are for. Start building that buffer now.
Protect your future →