A CV is a brief summary of you, your experiences and you achievements to date. It should also be an indication of why you are suitable for the role for which you are applying.
It is also an example of your work and as the first impression recruiters have of you, it is an important key to opening the interview door. Remember that you do not get a second chance to make a first impression! The good news is that by following some common sense rules, you can ensure that you get that vital first impression right.
2 pages is the standard length of a CV in the UK – clear, concise, easy to read and follow with a few tabs and bullet points.
Keep it simple – fancy formats and colour distract from the content
Marketing tool – your CV’s aim is to secure an interview so sell yourself
A profile can be useful to include to highlight your suitability or particular experience for a certain role but keep it realistic
Education and professional qualifications should be listed in full
Employment history should be listed, most recent first with job titles and a brief job description
Spelling – use spell check and double check that you have the right word ( Eg customer not costumer services)
Second opinion – ask a friend to take a look so that you can check that you are communicating what you intended to.
Be careful with hobbies – they should show positive things like you are a team player and make sure they are relevant to the job application. Don’t put down things that you can’t support or back up if questioned or things which may be open to challenge at interview. Internet surfing may be a great hobby at home but will not be so well received at work.
Photographs/Graphics are not necessary and could give the reader preconceived ideas about you.
Reasons for leaving – no need to include them on the CV but be prepared to discuss them at interview
Prior to submitting your CV, proof read it and compare it against the job for which you are applying. Does it seem relevant? Make sure you have clearly identified the relevant experience and/or skills which you think make you a good candidate for that role.
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