how to write a perfect personal CV

Writing the perfect CV

Employers sift through dozens of job applications when looking for the right candidate and only the best CVs get to the interview stage. So how do you get it right?

What is a CV?

A Curriculum Vitae (or resume as they're sometimes called) is a written record of your education, qualifications and employment. Most job advertisements will ask you to send a CV and covering letter so the employer can quickly sort the potential candidates from the less-suited applicants. The CV is therefore not just a documentary record of your career to date but also a chance to sell yourself. Consequently, spending a little time getting your CV right is well worth the effort involved.

How do I write a CV?

First of all, have a think about what attributes you have which make you well suited to the job. Take a few minutes to plan what you want to write before typing it up. Start by jotting down an outline of the CV by hand. Don't sit straight down in front of a typewriter or word processor until you understand clearly what skills you intend to 'sell' with the CV. Different positions may require different versions of your CV. Keep the job in mind when you're writing your CV.

What should I include?

The CV should be divided into specific sections covering personal details, educational background, employment history and interests and achievements.

Personal details

Always include:

• your name
• address (or where you can be easily contacted)
• telephone number
• date of birth

Sometimes you may also be asked to include:

• driving licence details
• marital status
• health

Education background

You should list all schools, colleges and specialist courses attended together with the relevant dates and grades. If you leave the grades off, the worst is usually assumed and potential employers will think that you are trying to hide something.

Employment History

Finding the balance between writing too much or too little is the key here. Getting this right can be hard but recruiters hate wading through pages of paper no matter how interesting and vital you think the information is. Equally, they don't want to have to second-guess what you have been up to for the past few years simply because you have not included enough information.

Show your employment history in reverse chronological order and your most recent position should be the one that is covered in most detail. Outline your main responsibilities and try and show progression and achievements.

How should it look?

Your CV should look clean and sharp. Ideally, use black ink on white (A4) paper. Clearly mark each section with a section heading and ask a friend to check the grammar and spelling before you send the CV. Avoid fancy fonts, decorations, photographs or presentation folders - it is the content that is really important.

Does length matter

Absolutely. Keep it brief - but not too brief. Two to three A4 sides are usually best.

What writing style should I use?

You should write in the first person. Stick to the point. An employer wants to identify your key skills and experiences by glancing at your CV. If it is hard work to get this information you will be passed over.

What else?

When you think you have finished, turn the tables on yourself. Pretend the CV belongs to someone else and you are the employer reviewing it. Be critical.