A CV is simply a tool to get you an interview and
not a method of winning you that new position. It should be brief, concise,
clearly laid out and specifically targeted for the position you are applying to.
Important basic information such as name, address, contact details,
qualifications and work history should make up the main part of every CV with a
more detailed explanation being reserved for interview.
Simple CV tips to follow are:
Tailor each CV for each
individual position, a generic CV is useful for introduction to recruitment
agencies but a job application CV should be written every time.
A CV should not be longer
than three pages, with two the norm. Most employers initially study a CV for
less than 10 seconds so relevant information must be digested within this
time.
Begin each CV with
personal and contact details. Include date of birth and marital status
(employers like to know applicants have stable relationships away from work)
and include as many ways to contact you as possible (telephone, mobile and
e-mails are important).
Education details should
be specific to the industry. Describe school qualifications in a concise form
and not by subject or grade whereas professional and vocational qualifications
should be in more detail, especially if you have limited professional work
experience.
Employment details should
be in reverse chronological order with the most information concerning present
and most recent positions. Previous positions especially relevant to the
current application should be highlighted.
Don't confuse the
employer. If previous positions have specific responsibilities, which are not
relevant to the current application, leave them out, especially if they were
not typical for the industry.
It is ok to leave gaps in
Employment History especially if it was spent traveling - travel can be a
valuable experience although time spent watching Richard and Judy is more
frowned upon.
Include any I.T. skills
you may have and don't be afraid to include hobbies at the end. Employers
prefer people to have a life away from work and these are often good
conversational points especially if the interest is mutual.
Use a good quality white
A4 paper, and delivery it within an A4 envelope - folded CVs are more
difficult to read and store. Make sure it arrives on time and always include a
covering letter written specifically to the employer emphasizing your
strengths for the position concerned.
Importantly, never lie on a
CV and only include information you are happy to talk about during an interview.
