Your CV
First impressions count, and you only get one chance to make them – so make sure your CV is up to scratch. Remember, the person reading your CV probably has only a limited time to consider your application.
Your chance of getting an interview is dramatically reduced if you do not consider the following:
- Readability is critical, make it easy for the interviewer, but also make sure you stand out! Keep it down to 2-3 pages – no more!
- Present your information in a standard reverse chronological format. Detail your job title, duration of employment (including months/years), company name, company location etc.
- Keep personal information to a minimum, but make sure what matters is included – Full Name, contact details, nationality & driving license details are essential.
- Take some time on its appearance, keep it organised and professional. Avoid stylised fonts, graphics or coloured backgrounds.
- Use bullet points instead of long sentences & paragraphs.
- Highlight your key achievements.
- Tailor your CV to the vacancy you’re applying for, include a covering letter if appropriate.
- Don’t include a photograph.
- Don’t write in the third person.
- Make sure you use job titles employers will recognise.
- Finally, don’t exaggerate. Be honest, but don’t include any failures.
The links below might also offer you some useful ideas on how to construct your CV:
http://content.monster.co.uk/section4047.asp
http://www.jobsite.co.uk/articles/candidate/c1/s11/index.html
