CV Writing tips

Writing a CV can be very daunting and time-consuming for some so it is important that you keep it up-to-date once every 6-12 months – you never know when you’ll need it! In today’s competitive job market, it is imperative that you stand out from other candidates.

Your CV needs to be professional, interesting and that it values your career so far, because don’t forget - it is your business case for a company to interview and potentially employ you. To help you, here are some top tips on CV writing:
 
  • Professionally presented with a clear format
  • Ideally 2-3 pages long, depending on level of career
  • Consistent font type and size throughout
  • Ensure it is not too generic and tailor it to the role you are applying for
  • Use positive words (eg: developed, negotiated, increased, won, % growth, promoted, ROI, reduced spend, etc)
  • Ensure all information is factual and do not exaggerate (eg: you will be asked to back up your figures at interview so bear this in mind)
  • Triple check grammar and spelling before sending
  • Companies and employers may also cross-reference your CV with other media such as LinkedIn so ensure this matches your CV (eg: employer, dates, job titles etc..)
  • Split your recent roles in to 2 sections for each role: "Responsibilities" and "Achievements". People do want to see what you are responsibile for but at the same time, they want to see what you have done
  • Don't copy & paste sentences / bullet points from one role in to another - even if it's pretty much the same role. It's lazy.

Introduction / Cover Letter:
  • Start strong and customize for the role that you want with your skills versus the job description or job advert
  • Demonstrate your reasons for applying showing that you are connected to the sector and display your industry insight

Personal Profile:
  • If your CV is good and speaks for itself, you might not feel the need to write a profile
  • But if you do – Keep it brief and make it stand out from your competitor candidates
  • What have you achieved in your personal life? (Sports? Charity? Voluntary work? Or just good news stories)
  • Try not to use too many generalised buzz words that are on everyone else’s CV (eg: highly motivated, enthusiastic, self motivated etc)

Click below to download example CV template: