- Introduction
- Training & Education
- General Advice
- CV Tips
- Interview Advice
- Resigning
- Starting a New Job
We all know that giving a rounded and clear picture of yourself when all you have are words is a hard and daunting task. But that’s exactly what you have to tackle in order to secure an interview for your perfect job.
Your CV is a picture of you and what you can offer to a new company. That’s why it’s important to make the reading of it an easy task. A subtle balance between simplicity and excitement is what you should aim for, ensuring you provide all relevant information.
The Ten CV Commandments:
1. Name
2. Your contact telephone and email address. Be mindful of the suitability of giving work details.
3. Your home address including postcode.
4. If you’re name doesn’t immediately give it away include your gender.
5. A personal statement which is direct and succinct. Don’t use flowery language and avoid clichés.
6. Summary of achievements to point out how you have successfully used your skills and character traits to produce results.
7. Work history with your most recent employment first. The most important pieces of information are the company’s name, your position and the dates. A short explanation of your responsibilities, the skills utilised and what you gained should follow underneath. Make sure you write simply and not narratively. Your reason for leaving the position is also important to state but make sure you keep all the content factual and not derogatory.
8. Your education is also relevant but keep it concise. It should be obvious at a glance and not taxing to read through.
9. References can be highlighted through a simple statement, ‘References available on request.’ It is at your discretion if you write down names and contact details.
10. Your spelling and grammar should be spot on. Write your CV once. Take a break and then make sure you check it through again. Spell Checker is fantastic but cannot pick up everything.
Make sure to bear in mind that your CV is a marketing tool. Tailor it to the job you are applying for, highlighting the most relevant skills and achievements. By doing this you can dictate the direction of an interview and be in command of the way you sell yourself.
Write logically and factually to make your CV an honest and crisp depiction of yourself. The past tense is the best option and action words emphasise decisive abilities and skills.
Make your CV stand out by formatting the text. But don’t go too crazy, we all know how unintelligible modern art is, don’t follow this example! Ideally it will be 2-3 pages long, a manageable read.
Make your CV the one at the top of the pile, don’t leave it to the mercy of the bin. If all else fails seek the advice of a professional and let them show you where to go.