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
- 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.
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
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.