Writing Your CV

Your CV creates the first impression a prospective employer has of you.

To provide the best chance of securing an assignment, ensure your CV accurately sells your experience.

Presentation

• Always type your CV
• Check for spelling and grammar. Don't rely on the computer's spell check - use a dictionary.
• If a CV includes errors, it shows lack of attention to detail and creates a negative impression
• Double check all dates and qualifications
• Keep it simple - use bullets, tabs and bold to make it easy to read
• Avoid using computer graphics and photos
• Choose a clear font such as Arial, no smaller than 11pt
• Use good quality white paper (if printing)

Length of a CV

• Your CV should be clear and concise; limit it to two pages

Personal Details

• Include your name, postal and email address and contact telephone numbers (home, work, mobile)
• Specify nationality and visa details, if applicable

Education Qualifications

Listed chronologically, detail school and university / college qualifications, including grades and dates. If you have an extensive work history, there is no need to give too many details on your educational background it is preferable to list it after your employment history. On the other hand, if you are looking for your first job, your education will be extremely important.

Professional Qualifications and Skills

State all professional qualifications and recent courses attended. Additionally, specify your IT systems, foreign languages and any other skills of interest with your relevant level of proficiency.

Employment History

Begin with your current / most recent position, including the name of the company and nature of the business. State your job title and the dates you were employed. Describe your responsibilities, duties and main achievements. Your last role is what an employer is really interested in so make sure it is easy to read and ideally on the first page.

Don't leave any employment gaps - ensure all your time is accountable. It is advisable to explain if you have switched jobs frequently or travelled.

Personal Interests

Be specific. Your interests say something about your personality. Rather than simply saying "Football" you could expand and say that you play for a local team and were club treasurer for the season.

Be prepared to answer questions on your interests; don't list things for the sake of it.

References

There is no need to include referees on your CV, simply write 'References available on request'. Should they be asked for, provide references to cover the last five years.