How to construct a CV
Why have a Good CV (Curriculum Vitae)?
To secure your desired new position with
good foundations, first design a professional CV.
Your CV
Can be the tool utilised in securing interviews.
It should be a true and accurate reflection of both your academic
and career history to date.
It must be clear and concise with no waffle.
It should be well laid out and presented making it easy to
read by a potential employer.
It must capture the readers attention by giving just the right
amount of detail.
Your CV can be your stepping stone to a new future!
Most Common Errors in CV’s
Misleading information.
Confusing or simply poor layout.
Too much information (waffle to fill out the CV).
Grammatical errors.
Spelling errors.
Note: You should always have someone
proof read your CV if you are unsure that it is correct as
this is a good way to avoid such pitfalls.
Information to Include
Full Name.
Home Address.
Contact Numbers / E-Mail.
Date of Birth.
Marital Status.
In addition to the above, you may wish to
include other personal information here such as:
Health.
Professional Memberships.
Languages.
Passport Details.
Driving Licence.
Interests.
Education and Qualifications
This section should list the following:
The school which you attended and which courses were taken.
Further / higher education such as A-levels, Degree etc.
Professional qualifications and courses attended such as Health
& Safety.
Any courses or studies you are currently taking.
Career Experience (should be in
reverse chronological format)
Each position which you have previously
held should be detailed with a space in-between.
Each should contain the following:
Company name.
Position within the company.
Period of time (dated) in which you held this position.
Description of your role including the duties performed –
this section should include experience gained, responsibilities,
achievements and managerial details such as the number of
people who reported to you.
Personal Appraisal
A brief description of your personality
and attributes using quantifying statements.
Notes
Your CV should always highlight your key
strengths and experience without the reader having to search
for them. By utilising different font sizes you can include
more information without resulting in a cluttered outlay.
Your CV should be tailored (where possible)
to each particular position applied for. In addition, a comprehensive
cover letter should also be included. The cover letter will
outline the type of position you are looking for and other
relevant information not included in your CV.
Hand written CV's are not acceptable!
Final Questions
Is the finished CV a fair and honest reflection?
Is it your absolute best shot?
Will it sell you?
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