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Getting your CV right
February 2010
Getting your CV right is one of the most important things you can do when applying for that new position. A careful and well thought out CV can be the difference between securing an interview and not. Here at C2 Recruitment we have come up with a quick and easy list of what to do and what not to do when designing your own CV.
The DOs
- Check your spelling very carefully (and the grammar). Getting the basics right is VERY important.
- Keep it short, clear and concise. Avoid more than 2 pages (3 at most), and make sure there’s plenty of white space to make it more attractive on the eye.
- Try and tailor it to the role you’re applying for. It could just be tweaking the way you describe your last role, or two, to highlight any relevant responsibilities or achievements your prospective employer may be looking for in the new role.
- Start with a short personal profile. This is just 4-5 lines to describe the type of person you are.
- Then add your last/current job and work back through you career history. No need to go back further than 10 years.
- Be concise with your description of each role. DO NOT WAFFLE. Just the job title; dates you started and left; then key responsibilities of the role; then, your key achievement(s). Nothing else.
- Put your name and clear contact detail information at the top of the first page. Don’t make it hard for them to find it!
- Double-check your spelling and grammar (or ask someone else to help).
- Always personalize a cover letter with each application. It helps you to make a connection with the reader, be relevant and stand out! However, remember to keep it simple and professional.
The DO NOTs
- Spell words incorrectly!
- Waffle! Remember, keep it concise and ideally use short bullet points (like in this section) to list your role, responsibilities and achievements. 2-3 pages remember!
- Be 'fancy' or clever with the layout. Keep it clean, clear, relevant and concise with a professional typeface.
- Be negative about yourself! For example, don't put in negative reasons for leaving previous jobs. That can come out later in the interview when you have the chance to discuss things in person.
- Leave gaps in the dates. They'll just worry you're hiding something.
- Use marked, creased or poor quality paper. Taking pride in your application says a lot about the person.
- Cram the information onto the page. Leave some white space to let the words 'breathe' (not to mention the reader).
- Go over the top on the 'Interests' bit at the end. It’s good to include some information about your personal life, but keep it simple, realistic and current. You won’t impress anyone when they ask how the 'mountain climbing' is going and your answer on a long-past or made-up hobby is a bit of an uphill struggle in itself!
For more information on our CV services please contact us at enquiries@c2recruitment.com or visit www.c2recruitment.com
Good Luck!!
Shane Hawkins - C2 Recruitment
Original article can be found at www.c2recruitment.com