Need Help writing your CV?
CV writing can be a daunting task, especially if you are starting from scratch. CV’s should always be clearly formatted, tailored to the role you are applying for and short enough for a recruiter to scan quickly. If you are unsure where to start, here are some basic tips to help you on your way!
Personal details: This may sound obvious but it is surprising how many people do not include their name, E-mail, contact number and address. These details should always be stated at the top of your CV.
Personal Profile or Statement: A personal Profile or Statement should be the first thing shown on your CV and is your chance to sell yourself to a potential employer. If you had 10 seconds to sell yourself what would you say? How are you going to stand out from the crowd? What are you bringing to this role? A short paragraph is sufficient to explain why you are the right candidate for the position.
Career History: Your career history should be clear, concise and in chronological order (most recent first). Be sure to include your job title, name of the organisation, dates and your key responsibilities along with any achievements. Don’t leave gaps under this section. If you have been out of work let the recruiter know why and what you were doing in this time. If you did a course, volunteered or travelled then shout about it!
Education: Let the employer know your educational experience and achievements in this section along with dates, the school, college or university and the qualification / grade. If you have more educational achievements than work experience, placing an emphasis on your educational achievements is a good idea.
Hobbies and Interests : Hobbies and interests gives the employer an idea about the person you are and what interests you. It is a good idea to include them because it shows the recruiter a piece of your personality.
Usually a CV is no more than 2 pages so keep it punchy and to the point and always make sure you spell check your CV, maybe ask someone else to double check what you have written to avoid any mistakes. Lastly and most importantly, tell the truth.
