Your CV

Your CV is your own personal sales brochure and will offer potential employers an insight into what kind of employee you will make and whether you will be suitable for the job being advertised. It is, therefore, vital that it gives the best first impression and that it is a true and accurate representation of you. A successful CV could be your passport to a new career.

GENERAL TIPS FOR WRITING YOUR CV

• Keep the length to no more than three pages to engage the reader's attention.
• Use good quality, white paper and a conventional, easy-to-read font.
• Information should be positive and add value to your application.
• Where possible, highlight any elements matching those stated in the job specification.
• Sell yourself and highlight all your personal and professional attributes.
• Finally, spell check, proof read and even get someone else to cast their eye over your CV to ensure there are no errors. Your CV will reflect your professionalism.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS AND LAYOUT 

All CVs should include the following information:

PERSONAL DETAILS

Include your name, address, contact information and whether you hold a current driving licence.

PROFILE

A brief description of immediate career goals and personal qualities, which are relevant to the job you are applying for.

EDUCATION

Outline your past and current education, starting with the most recent and working your way back. You will need to list schools, colleges, universities attended, start and finish dates, subjects studied and qualifications/grades achieved.

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

Summarise your work experience, starting with your most recent job and working your way back. You will need to include company name, brief description of the organisation and your employment dates. List your job title, duties and responsibilities (choose those most relevant to the position you are applying for). Highlight any achievements or successful projects you have been involved in or responsible for. Explain any career breaks, or gaps in employment history.

ACHIEVEMENTS, EXPERIENCES AND INTERESTS

Highlight any skills not gained through work or education but which are nonetheless relevant to the job you are applying for e.g. leadership and teamwork skills acquired through organised sports.

IT SKILLS 

List the computer software packages you currently use and any that you may have had specific training for.

REFERENCES

Your CV should include two or three referees. At least one of these should be a previous employer.