Submitting a CV is still the basic method of applying for a new job. It is therefore vital to make a good first impression: this guide may help. Some of the following points may seem obvious, but we receive many CVs, often from senior personnel, that have basic errors.
Ensure that your CV is typed (ideally laser printed) on good quality white paper: 2 or 3 pages maximum.
Make sure that there are no spelling mistakes.
Include full contact details, (address, home phone number, mobile phone number, e-mail etc.)Do not include a photograph unless specifically requested.
You do not have to include any age related information.
If possible, include a typed covering letter specific to the job applied for.
Usually, academic and professional qualifications follow. Generally people are not interested in what school or college you went to, although (where appropriate) you could mention the name of the University you attended.
Depending on how long ago the examinations were sat, you do not have to list the subjects you passed at school. These can be summarised e.g. 7 ‘O’ Levels, 3 ‘A’ Levels. Other qualifications HNC, degrees etc. should naturally be more specific.
Consider following these basic details with an overview of yourself and your skills e.g. “A General Manager with experience of developing and implementing new procedures to increase both productivity and profits.”
If applying for technical positions, you may want to list products and systems you are familiar with.
Avoid a style that is too narrative, perhaps using bullet points to stress key areas.
Start with your most recent position and work backwards.Leave no gaps in the career history and include any periods of unemployment.
For each job, include your job title, key functions of the job, any notable achievements.
You should mention what business your employer was in, (e.g. major cctv installation company).
You do not have to include the reasons why you left a job or your remuneration package, unless specifically requested. Or unless it benefits you (e.g. If you were made redundant).
If you are a student / school-leaver with no work experience, try and include any information that may impress a future employer e.g. part-time jobs, extra-curricula activities, memberships of school clubs, societies etc.
See also our Interview Guide
