Create an Interview-Winning Graduate IT Consultant CV Template Example
Embarking on a career as a Graduate IT Consultant is an exciting journey filled with opportunity. The role of an IT Consultant combines analytical expertise, problem-solving, and communication skills to help organisations optimise their technology systems and business processes. Graduate IT Consultants typically work alongside senior consultants, assisting in project delivery, systems analysis, and client management. Salaries for graduate IT consultants in the UK usually start around £28,000–£35,000 per annum, with potential growth as experience and certifications are gained. Companies look for individuals who can bridge the gap between technology and business, offering insights that drive efficiency, security, and innovation. Crafting a CV that highlights both technical ability and consultancy potential is essential to standing out in a competitive job market.
Why a Strong CV Matters for Graduate IT Consultants
A CV is more than a list of qualifications and work experience; it is your professional story. For a Graduate IT Consultant, your CV needs to demonstrate that you have the technical knowledge, analytical mindset, and interpersonal skills to thrive in consulting environments. Employers are not just looking for someone who knows IT; they want someone who can translate technical solutions into business value, work collaboratively, and adapt quickly to evolving client needs. A strong CV communicates these attributes clearly, making recruiters and hiring managers confident in your potential.
Graduate IT Consultant Job Description
As a Graduate IT Consultant, you can expect to:
Support the delivery of IT projects from inception to completion.
Analyse and evaluate client IT systems, recommending improvements.
Collaborate with teams to implement technology solutions.
Provide technical support and guidance to clients.
Conduct research and develop reports on emerging IT trends and solutions.
Participate in client meetings and contribute to presentations.
This role requires a balance of technical proficiency, business understanding, and soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting an Interview-Winning CV
1. Start with a Strong Personal Statement
Your personal statement is the first impression. Keep it concise (3–5 sentences) and focused on your strengths, achievements, and career aspirations. For example:
“Ambitious Graduate IT Consultant with hands-on experience in systems analysis, cloud computing, and project delivery. Skilled in translating complex technical solutions into actionable business strategies. Eager to contribute to innovative IT projects while developing consultancy expertise.”
Tip: Avoid generic phrases. Instead, use measurable outcomes or specific technologies you have experience with.
2. Highlight Education and Qualifications
For graduates, education often takes prominence. Include:
Degree title and institution.
Graduation date.
Relevant modules or projects.
Certifications (e.g., ITIL, AWS, Microsoft Azure).
Example:
BSc Computer Science – University of Manchester (2022)
Relevant modules: Systems Analysis, Cloud Computing, Business Intelligence
Final Year Project: Developed an AI-powered inventory management system
3. Showcase Technical Skills
A Graduate IT Consultant CV must clearly communicate technical competencies. Consider dividing your skills into categories:
Programming Languages: Python, Java, SQL
Cloud & IT Infrastructure: AWS, Azure, VMware
Tools & Methodologies: Agile, Scrum, Jira, Power BI
Data & Analytics: SQL, Excel, Tableau
Use bullet points and be honest about your proficiency.
4. Demonstrate Work Experience
Even if you have limited professional experience, highlight internships, placements, or relevant projects. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe achievements.
Example:
IT Intern – Tech Solutions Ltd, London (June–August 2022)
Assisted in migrating legacy systems to cloud-based infrastructure
Conducted security audits, reducing potential vulnerabilities by 15%
Collaborated with a team of 5 to deliver a client-ready dashboard ahead of schedule
Tip: Use numbers, percentages, and clear outcomes wherever possible—it makes your contributions tangible.
5. Include Extracurriculars and Leadership Activities
Graduate employers value transferable skills such as leadership, teamwork, and communication. Include relevant activities:
Tech society president – organised coding workshops for 100+ students
Volunteer IT support for local charities
6. Tailor Your CV to the Job Description
Every IT consultancy firm has unique requirements. Match your CV language to the job posting without copying it word-for-word. Highlight skills and experiences that align with their priorities.
7. Keep Formatting Clear and Professional
Use a clean, readable font like Arial or Calibri
Stick to 2 pages max
Use consistent headings and bullet points
Avoid graphics, photos, or excessive colour
General Tips for Graduate CVs
Focus on achievements rather than responsibilities.
Be concise and impactful—avoid fluff.
Use action verbs: implemented, designed, analysed, delivered.
Tailor your CV to each application.
Include keywords from the job description for SEO optimisation (this helps if applying via online systems).
Advice for Middle and Senior Management Applicants
For more experienced candidates, your CV should emphasise leadership, strategic impact, and project outcomes. Include:
High-level project management achievements
Client portfolio management experience
Team leadership and mentoring roles
Strategic initiatives and business growth contributions
CV Structure Recommendations
1. Contact Information – Name, phone number, professional email, LinkedIn profile
2. Personal Statement – Clear, concise, and tailored to the role
3. Education & Qualifications – Degrees, certifications, projects
4. Technical Skills – Categorised and relevant to IT consulting
5. Work Experience – Professional experience, internships, projects
6. Extracurricular Activities – Leadership, volunteering, relevant societies
7. Achievements & Awards – Scholarships, hackathons, competitions
8. References – Optional; “Available on request” is sufficient
Do’s and Don’ts on a Graduate IT Consultant CV
Do’s:
Do customise your CV for each application
Do quantify achievements wherever possible
Do include relevant technical and soft skills
Do maintain a professional tone and layout
Do proofread multiple times
Don’ts:
Don’t exaggerate skills or experiences
Don’t use clichés like “hardworking” without examples
Don’t include irrelevant hobbies or personal information
Don’t make your CV longer than 2 pages
Don’t neglect formatting—clarity is key
Optimising for Online Applications
Many graduate IT consultant roles use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Include relevant keywords from the job description, such as “IT project delivery,” “systems analysis,” “cloud computing,” “Agile methodology,” and “data analysis.” This increases the likelihood your CV will reach a human recruiter.
Conclusion
Creating a Graduate IT Consultant CV that stands out requires a careful balance of technical proficiency, business understanding, and personal branding. Remember to focus on achievements, tailor your CV for each application, and clearly communicate your potential to prospective employers.
If you want to take your CV and LinkedIn profile to the next level, book an appointment with me, Jerry Frempong, and let’s craft a winning application that lands interviews and opens doors to exciting IT consultancy opportunities: Book an Appointment
