CAREER ADVICE
How to write a good CV
Having a good CV is often the gateway to heading to the next stage of a job application, so it is important you do this well. Here are a few tips for writing a good CV, and showing employers why you will be the best person for the job.
The format for a CV is flexible, with many different styles that can be used – as long as it looks professional. However, there are some elements that most employers expect to see:
Name, Professional Title & Contact Details
The title of your CV should just be your name, professional title and contact details. All contact details required are email address and contact number – nothing else is required.
Feel free to add a professional profile, such as LinkedIn Personal profile
This is just a few lines about you to introduce yourself on the CV, explain who you are, what you hope to achieve, and your goals. If possible tailor it to the job you would like to apply for and make yourself sound like the perfect candidate for the job.
Work history and experience
Outline your previous roles, experiences, volunteering or placements. List these in reverse chronological order (most recent one first). For each job you should include:
- Employer details
- Your job role/title
- Your employment dates
- 3-4 lines explaining
- what you did in that role
- Education
This should also appear with the latest one first, with each item including: - Institution (school/college name)
- Qualifications with grades
- Date attended/completed
If you have room or you believe you can write additionally for the specific role you are applying for, then here are some additional options of sections to add
This is an area to add some key skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for, such as a specific software you have used or course you have attended that you could apply to this role.
Achievements
This section would include any significant thing you have accomplished in the roles you have held to go above and beyond responsibilities. This can help convince the company you would be a perfect fit for the position. This can include professional achievements or academic awards.
Hobbies and interests
Include hobbies that add sustainability for the role, and are not boring or uncommon – something that bosses will be interested in.
Here are some general guidelines on how to format a good CV:
Keep it simple – A standard CV length is 1-2 sides of A4, but if you have more experience, then up to 3 pages is acceptable
Headings – using clear headings makes it easier for the reader to understand the content
File type – keep it as a PDF
Font type – clear fonts like Arial, Times New Roman or Calibri are best
Font size – it should be between 10 – 12, with headings between 14-18. Make sure standard size margins are used.