Whilst your CV will never fully encapsulate you and your experience it will be the first impression a client will get of you and so it’s essential that your CV is as good as it can be. These tips should give you some helpful information on what makes a good CV.
- Try and keep your CV to two pages. Unless you are at a senior level and have plenty of relevant experience aim to make two pages your maximum.
- Make the CV as relevant as you can. For example if you are going for a sales position make sure that any previous sales experience is given as much reference as it can. Giving your CV focus is important.
- Use a professional font and try and keep colours to a minimum. Putting your name in colours surrounded by flashing stars and smiling faces doesn’t create the most professional impression.
- Divide your CV into clear sub headings e.g. Personal Details, Profile, Education, Employment History, Interests.
- Your Personal Profile should detail your strengths, attributes and realistic career ambitions.
- Employment History: Start with your most recent experience and work backwards.
- Make sure that there are no gaps in your CV. Whether you’ve been travelling or freelancing it’s vital that you say so.
- List your achievements. If you’ve organised the world’s most successful exhibition say so!
- Spell and grammar check your CV…and then get someone to check it for you.
- Don’t lie or elaborate the truth.
- Don’t include a photo.
- Sometimes a consultant will suggest making alterations so don’t be afraid or too proud to change your CV.
- List your interests. You may have interests in common with potential employers so put them down.
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