CV Guide
Why Have a Curriculum Vitae (CV)?
A CV is a tool, used to introduce yourself to a potential employer, to establish relevance for the position applied for and secure an interview. This is your first opportunity to sell yourself and provide the reader with an overview of your experiences and create a favourable first impression.
What information should a CV include?
Your CV needs to be well constructed using a sensible font (Arial/Times New Roman), with no graphics/clipart and created in word format. Generally speaking your CV should be no longer than two/three pages in length.
Personal details
Normally this would include:
- Full name
- Address (list if permanent or temporary)
- Telephone numbers (which you would be happy to be contacted on, including mobile)
- Email addresses (which you would be happy to be contacted on)
- Driving Licence (whether UK or Overseas)
- Nationality (list any visa / work permits if relevant)
Personal profile
A personal profile describes you as a professional and as a person and is a teaser or hook so the employer / recruiter will investigate more by reading the rest of the CV.
Career history
Provides the reader with basic factual information about work experiences and this should read as follows:
- The most recent position first then continue in reverse chronological order
- The last two positions should contain the most details and include (where possible) responsibilities and main achievements which are measurable. E.g. increased sales by 45% in year 1
- Reduce the detail as you work back through your career and present the information in bullet form, which is clear and easy to read
- Be positive, concise and emphasise successes, strengths and transferable skills
- Ensure your CV is accurate and can be verified, it will form the basis of the interview/discussion so you need to be able to support any claims made
- CV should convey your relevance for the position applied for
- Ensure your dates show month and year of start and finish dates
Education, qualifications & training
This should include:
- Academic qualifications
- Skills e.g. IT skills, Languages spoken etc.
- Courses attended
Interests
Keep this section short and to the point. Any hobbies that are a little out of the ordinary should be highlighted as this can help you stand out from a crowd and try to show a range of interests to reflect your personality.
References
At least two reliable referees to be listed. They must have given their permission and their details should include:
- Full name and title
- Company name (if relevant)
- Email address
- Telephone number
Additional Notes…..
- Your CV is a direct reflection of you, therefore check and double check the content.
- Whilst a friend or member of the family can review your CV, try and find someone objective and independent to critique it as if they had never met you.
- Be honest at all times
- Remember to keep it to a minimum and ensure the layout and typeface is clear and immaculately presented
- Send your CV with a covering email and include:
- The position you are applying for and any reference numbers
- Provide details of why you believe you would be good for the job
- Your current salary
- Your contact details
- Be brief.
We hope these few tips will assist you in producing an effective CV and in turn will open many doors for you. If you require any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact a member of the ‘Sue Prince Resourcing’ team.
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