CV Writing Tips
Here are some basic rules tips on how to write a CV, what order you should put things and what should be on it:
1 Personal Information
Though it sounds obvious make sure you always start with your personal information ie name, email, contact numbers and address at the top of the page.
4 Achievements
Paying focus on the role you are applying for, describe all of your previous achievements which have given you the experience and skills to make you a suitable candidate. Try to back them up and show how you would apply these to your new role.
2 Personal Profile
As it’s the first thing shown on your CV, a profile is a great way to summarise who you are, what you are offering and what you have accomplished so far in your career. It should really aim to describe why you are suitable for the role in just a short paragraph.
5 Education
Your educational experience and certifications should be added here together with dates, type of qualification and grades achieved. If you are applying for a position where lots of individual certifications are required, list them. If you have more educational achievements than work experience placing an emphasis on this section is a good idea.
3 Your Employment History
Starting with your most recent role, include all of your relevant employment history. Include your job title there, who you were working for, the dates you were there including the months. Describe your key responsibilities there.
6. Hobbies and Interests
Although not always required this section can give you something to talk about at interview and relevant ones can help you stand out from the crowd. Try to make hobbies you add become ‘added value’ as opposed to stating something for the sake of it.
Any further information that may be required such as reasons for career change or gaps in your CV should be also included.
Words to use in your CV
Try not to use words that can be seen to be cliché such as:
Self -Motivated, Flexible, Goal Driven, Independent, Multi-tasker, Detail Orientated etc.
Instead try to use words that you can back up at interview and help you stand out from the crowd such as:
Reliable, Innovative, Adaptable, Accurate, Pro-active, Responsible, Confident etc.
Using non cliché words you can back up your genuine accomplishments and help you stand out from others with identical skills and prove more effectively your suitability.
Don’t forget!
Once you have put your CV together, keep working on it.
With every job you apply for, your CV should be tailored to allow you to stand out from other applications. Change it to match the job title you are applying for, so you are confident it matches the specifications of the role each time. By highlighting your match to the specific skills of the role, relevant accomplishments and achievements, work experience and personal qualities to the role each time you are always giving yourself an increased opportunity to be noticed.