How to write a good CV
You have one chance at creating a positive first impression with your CV and it's vital that you get it right. A good CV will ensure you promote yourself to your best advantage and help secure interviews. CVs that are too long and/or full of errors will not be well regarded.
One key thing to remember when writing a CV is that you must keep it short. Two pages are ideal but no CV, no matter how experienced you are, should go beyond three pages. Aim to ensure the content is clear, structured, concise and relevant. Using bullet points rather than full sentences can help minimise word usage.
What information should a CV include?
- Personal details. Most CVs start with these but take care to avoid superfluous details, such as religious affiliation, children's names and so on.
- Education and qualifications. Include the names of institutions and dates attended in reverse order; university before school results.
- Work experience. The general rule is to present your career history in reverse date order starting with your most recent/current job. Achievements and responsibilities should be listed against each role. More emphasis should be put on more recent jobs.
- Skills. Include computer skills and foreign language skills and any other recent training/development that is relevant to the role applied for.
- Hobbies and Interests. Keep this section especially brief and to the point.
- Referees - these are not necessary on your CV but recruitment agencies will usually ask for them when you register.
General Tips
- Your CV should be typed using a plain typeface. Decorative borders are not necessary, nor are photographs of yourself.
- Check, double check and triple check your spelling and grammar.
- Make sure your CV is clear and easy to read.
- Explain (briefly) any gaps in career history.
So now you know how to write a good CV, good luck with your job search!
