Writing a winning CV
What is a CV?
A CV is an easy-to-read summary of your education, qualifications and work experience.You use it to show all your strong points so that an employer can see quickly and easily whether you have what they’re looking for.
A good CV can improve your chances of getting an interview.
When do I send a CV?
Lots of job adverts ask you to send a CV with your letter of application.
It’s also a good idea to enclose your CV if you’re sending a speculative letter.
If an employer asks you to fill in an application form, don’t send your CV. The form will have all that they need to compare applicants.
What does a CV look like?
It should be:
- printed
- no longer than 2 sides of A4
- clearly laid out, so that it looks good and is easy to read
- relevant to the job you’re applying for (you may need to alter it to suit different vacancies)
- positive, emphasising you strong points
- checked through for spellings and other errors
- sent with a short covering letter.
Setting out your CV
Put your name, address, contact details and date of birth at the top.
Arrange the other information under separate headings. Choose the order that shows you in the best possible light. Include:
- personal skills (a list of your main selling points)
- education, training and qualifications
- work and other relevant experience
- interests and hobbies
- referees.
There are basically two main ways to order your CV:
- Traditional CV – this is the most common style. List your education and work experience in date order first and then outline your personal skills.
- Skills-based CV – this is best for highlighting your skills and achievements. Start by listing your personal skills in order of relevance to the job, then list your education and work experience.
Getting started
Look at examples of other peoples’ CVs before writing your own. Ask friends and family or check out examples online.
The Careers Advice Service website includes a podcast with information and advice on writing a CV and a free on-line CV builder to help get you started. Click here to go to the website.
If you’d like further help with CV writing, ask at your local Connexions Centre.
