Crafting an Effective CV
Your CV is your personal marketing tool, designed to make a lasting impression on potential employers. As the initial point of contact, it’s crucial to get it right.
Ideal CV Length
Aim for a concise CV, ideally no longer than two A4 pages. However, the length can vary based on your experience level. For instance, a school leaver or recent graduate may fit everything on one page, while seasoned professionals might require more space.
Prioritise relevant information to save space. If certain details don’t showcase your qualifications or skills, consider removing them. Additionally, omit any outdated information unless it’s particularly relevant.
Essential CV Sections
- Contact Details: Provide your full name, address, phone number, and professional email. Date of birth is generally unnecessary.
- Personal Profile: Craft a brief statement highlighting key achievements, skills, and career aspirations. Aim for around 100 words to keep it impactful.
- Experience: Detail your work history in reverse chronological order, focusing on roles and responsibilities pertinent to the job you’re targeting. Include job titles, organisation names, durations, and key tasks.
- Education: Outline your educational background and professional qualifications, starting with the most recent. Specify qualification types, grades, and completion dates.
- Hobbies and Interests: Optionally, include relevant hobbies to provide a well-rounded view of your personality. If not applicable, feel free to omit this section.
CV Writing Tips
- Customise Your CV: Tailor your CV for each application by researching the company and role. Align your skills and experiences with the job requirements.
- Avoid Clichés: Steer clear of overused phrases like ‘team player’ or ‘hardworking’. Instead, use concrete examples to showcase your abilities.
- Use Active Language: Employ dynamic verbs like ‘achieved’, ‘analysed’, or ‘innovated’ to highlight your proactive approach.
- Professional Email: Ensure your email address is appropriate and sounds professional. If needed, create a new email account for job applications.
- Proofread: Eliminate spelling or grammar errors by using a spell checker and having someone else review your CV for clarity and accuracy.