CV Guide

The main purpose of your CV is to gain an interview so that in turn, you give yourself the best chance of securing the role presenting yourself in person at an interview. So taking the time and effort at this early stage in your job search by creating a quality CV is definitely worthwhile.

We have developed the following guide as a useful reference tool when constructing your CV.

Before writing your CV you need to - SET CAREER OBJECTIVES

Where are you now and where are you going?
What experience and qualifications you currently have
What are your personal strengths and weaknesses
Where you need to go next in order to meet the long term goal

The best CVs are teasers….. enticing the reader to find out more……….driving them mad with curiosity……………..until they're forced to call you in for an interview to find out more!

SOME TIPS TO REMEMBER...

Be concise – most careers should fit onto two sides of an A4 sheet.
CV format – split your CV into logical sections such as personal information, qualifications (list chronologically and indicate grades), employment history and interests. It is also recommended you use bullet points where possible as they break up your CV and help you convey your career concisely making it easier for a potential employer to absorb salient information.
Personal information should go at the beginning of the CV and include your full name, address, telephone numbers (daytime and evening) and email address.
Employment history – positions should appear in reverse chronological order. Next to each position you should include your key responsibilities and achievements, how long you were in the role and your reason for leaving.
CV presentation – as your CV is your first chance to make a good impression, when you have completed it, please check it carefully for spelling mistakes and we advise that you laser print it on good quality paper without elaborate folders.

MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL…

Use your CV to demonstrate how your personal skills, experience, qualifications and past success can translate into real financial benefits, either by saving or making money, for the employer you are targeting.