A great CV is worth its weight in gold. It is often the first thing a prospective employer will see about you, and if you get it right, it could make the difference between getting that all important interview or spending months looking through newspapers, websites, and visiting your local careers service.
Here is a quick guide to what your CV should look like. We have also supplied two free to use templates to help you create the best CV with the most impact.
Template 1
Template 2
Do's and Don'ts of CV writing
DO ensure your CV is clear, well presented, and in a logical order.
DO type your CV and print it on high quality white paper
DO ensure your CV is concise; try to stick to a maximum of two A4 sides
DO tell the truth, honesty is the best policy
DO highlight all your skills, qualities, and experiences
DO tailor your CV specific to the job you're applying for
DO check your CV for spellings, grammatical and factual errors
DON'T use difficult to read fonts and designs
DON'T make it too long, this can discourage the reader and can work against you
DON'T lie - Providing false information can be found out and can be held against you
DON'T send your CV off without checking it twice
DON'T send you CV off without attaching a cover letter
Real CV Bloomers
Here are a few CV and Job application errors, mistakes and probably urban myths.
"My intensity and focus are at inordinately high levels, and my ability to complete projects on time is unspeakable."
"Education: Curses in liberal arts, curses in computer science, curses in accounting."
"Instrumental in ruining entire operation for a local chain store."
"I have an excellent track record, although I am not a horse."
"I am a rabid typist."
"Exposure to German for two years, but many words are not appropriate for business."
"Proven ability to track down and correct erors."
"I have become completely paranoid, trusting completely nothing and absolutely no one."
"References: None, I've left a path of destruction behind me."
"Strengths: Ability to meet deadlines while maintaining composer."
"Don't take the comments of my former employer too seriously, they were unappreciative beggars and slave drivers."
"My goal is to be a meteorologist. But since I possess no training in meteorology, I suppose I should try stock brokerage."
"I procrastinate--especially when the task is unpleasant."
"I am loyal to my employer at all costs. Please feel free to respond to my resume on my office voicemail."
"Qualifications: No education or experience."
"Achievments: Oversight of entire department."
"Extensive background in accounting. I can also stand on my head!"
Cover letter: "Thank you for your consideration. Hope to hear from you shorty!".
