Page 43 - Graduate Recruitment Handbook 2025

How can graduates make their CV’s and cover How important are soft skills, such as
letters stand out to you? communication and teamwork, for recent
CV Tips: graduates in your organisation?
1. Tailor it to the job: Very Important
• Highlight relevant coursework, internships, Client Interaction
and part-time work that relate directly to the • Graduates often assist with client queries,
role. request documents, or explain financial data.
• Use keywords from the job description. Clear, professional communication builds trust
2. Use a clean, professional layout: and ensures smooth engagement
• Avoid over-designing. Keep it neat with clear Team Collaboration
headings and consistent formatting. • Audit and accounting work is rarely done in
3. Showcase soft and technical skills: isolation. Graduates must work within teams,
• Include systems/software you’re familiar with meet tight deadlines, and coordinate tasks
(e.g., CaseWare, Xero, Excel). — which requires strong interpersonal and
• Mention leadership roles, teamwork, and collaboration skills.
problem-solving examples. Career Progression
4. Keep it concise: • Those with strong soft skills often rise faster
• Ideally 1 page, 2 pages maximum for — they’re better at managing relationships,
graduates. leading teams, and representing the firm
Cover Letter Tips: professionally.
1. Address it to the right person (if possible):
How important are extracurricular activities and
• A personalized greeting shows effort.
leadership roles in assessing a recent graduate’s
2. Tell your story briefly: employability?
• Explain why you’re passionate about the Extracurricular activities do help candidates stand
industry/role. out but it is not a defining factor at PKF (PE) Inc.
• Mention what attracted you to the specific It reflects real-world readiness. Managing events,
firm.
leading student organizations, or captaining a team
3. Show enthusiasm: shows you’re already building transferable skills
• Passion and curiosity stand out. Let your like delegation, conflict resolution, and strategic
motivation show, without sounding desperate.
planning.
What are the top three skills you believe are
essential for recent graduates to succeed in
today’s job market?
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Communication and Collaboration
• Attention to Detail and Accuracy

What advice would you give students to help
them improve their chances of getting hired?
Be confident during your interviews and prepare
in advance by doing research on the company and
what type of questions are usually asked during
interviews. Keep learning and upskilling yourself.

2025/26 Graduate Recruitment Handbook 43