Your CV creates the first impression so it is vital that you get it right.
Points to remember
- Your CV is not just a list of factually accurate statements, it is a sales brochure.
- Tell your story, work out what makes you the best candidate for the job and let your CV explain it.
- Make it interesting and ensure you highlight all key strengths and achievements.
- Keep it concise and user friendly, 2-3 pages should be enough. Long paragraphs and flowery
sentences are out.
- Ensure all contents are factual and accurate.
- Accentuate the positive, eliminate the negative!
Generally established practices
Your CV should have 2 distinct sections – Personal details followed by Career History.
Personal Details
Include:
- Name.
- Address.
- Contact Numbers –including your work number may not be wise.
- Give a mobile number if at all possible.
- Email Address - again it may not be wise to give your work address.
- Date of Birth.
- Nationality.
- Relevant qualifications - probably no need to disclose your scout badges, but name relevant
professional qualifications, and your highest academic qualifications.
- Education – again only include relevant information that adds value.
Career History
This part of the CV is where the points to remember are of real relevance - be positive, concise and factual but score points that will impress prospective employers.
Your career history is best laid out as follows:
- Start with your most recent employer and work back.
- Name your employers and provide information on the nature of the business and size of
the company.
- Provide dates of employment and job title.
- Provide detail of your role and responsibilities.
- Emphasise your specific achievements at the end of each.
When you have finished your CV make sure you spell check it and ask others to review it and comment.
If you use your CV in support of specific job applications do not be afraid to tailor it. Always accompany your CV with a letter explaining why you feel you would be the right person for the job.
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