Writing a CV

Writing a good CV is not an easy task, after all, you are ultimately putting your life in the hands of an employer. The key to a successful application lies in the ability to tailor your CV to the job you are applying for. If you can provide evidence that you are the best person for the position on offer, you are almost guaranteed success. Think about what the employer is looking for in an ideal candidate and the skills, abilities and experience required. Story continues ADVERTISEMENT Arrange your most significant examples of how you meet their requirements on the front page. The main areas on your CV should be: Name and contact details Education Work Experience Skills Hobbies and interests Referees There are three types of CV: 1.) Chronological - This is the most frequently used CV. It shows a steady progression through jobs. Avoid this one if you have experienced performance problems or have made frequent job changes. 2.) Functional - A better option if you have been unemployed for a long period of time. Created without employment dates and company names and concentrates on skills and responsibilities. 3.) Prioritised - Can be useful if you've changed careers or when current responsibilities don't relate to the job you've applied for. Try to keep your CV to two pages, employers are too busy to wade through pages of your life history. Be sure to include work experience that highlights your skills and give specific examples. Don't include statements such as "I am a highly motivated individual with strong communication skills," unless you can provide some supporting evidence. Back up your claims with details of leisure, sport or holiday activities. Travel experiences can often be used to suggest a broad outlook. Try to come over as a participant, not as a spectator. Always include IT skills, if you are a member of a professional body don't forget to give details, and if you have a driving license state this fact. When you have completed your CV be sure to check it over for spelling and grammar mistakes, any slip ups are unforgivable and will undermine any claims you have made to professionalism. Finally, presentation is key. Use a good quality paper and make sure the layout is clear, use bold headings and plenty of white space. icJobs Useful Information Interview techniques Finding a Job How to answer those awkward interview questions

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