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 it’s 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