helpful tips for CVs

Your CV is the first thing an employer sees from you - make it count!

presentation easy to read and honest

• Your CV is the first thing an employer sees from you. Ensure that it's clean and not creased or smudged.
• Keep your CV to a maximum of two pages.
• Be truthful, straightforward and succinct.
• Make your CV as inviting, easy to read and understand - avoid flowery descriptions.

relevant and clear

• You should adapt your resume for each job. Different employers are looking for different experiences and skills. Make sure your CV presents your most relevant experience.
• Set the scene with your strengths first and urge the employer to read on. Detail your accomplishments and outline the contributions you have made to each job.
• List your previous jobs, starting with the most recent and briefly describe the duties you undertook. Do not leave gaps in your work history.
• Include a clear and concise career goal, which does not contradict the job you are applying for.

format

• Split your c.v. into five easy sections

1. Name, address and contact details (including mobile phone and e-mail)

2. Your career record

3. Professional skills

4. Education and qualifications

5. Personal interests

• Use good quality paper, and pay attention to layout with clearly delineated paragraphs, margins and a simple typeface (Arial or Times are both good).
• Use bullet points and avoid long paragraphs.
• Remember to keep it simple.

cover letter

• Always use a cover letter for your resume. Your cover letter should address each key point or selection criteria from the advertisement.

final checks

• Once you've written your CV, check the spelling, ensuring that you have listed your employment dates correctly.
• Now ask a friend to read it through as a final check.