Candidate CV Creation
Your CV is an advert for your skills. Its main purpose is for employers to see what you are capable of and consequently arrange an interview.
An employer wants to be able to read through your CV quickly and get an understanding of your skills and history which is why your CV should be factual and concise.
Below you will find some tips on how to create the perfect CV and what prospective employers are looking for:
Presentation
A CV should be made on a word processor in a clear and easy to read font.
Typically it should be no longer than 2 pages of A4 paper.
If printed, a CV should be printed out on good quality white paper.
Personal Information
Your full name, address and contact numbers should be at the beginning of your CV. Your date of birth and email address are optional.
Personal Profile
This should take the form of a short, catchy paragraph to give a quick summary of yourself and ambitions.
Education and Qualifications
Your education history should be recorded in reverse chronological order from secondary level upwards along with any relevant subjects and qualifications you have gained.
Work History
Your career should be recorded in reverse chronological order focussing on your most recent experiences just like your education history. Make sure that any relevant projects and training are included as well as work in specialised areas. Don’t forget to sell yourself so highlight your skills and strengths.
Skills
In this section you could again highlight any other skills (both personal and professional) that you feel will help the job application.
Interests and Hobbies
Include any personal interests and hobbies. These will help to give an example of your overall persona. Remember though not to exaggerate as you may be asked questions on any aspect of your CV.