spring clean series: career

Whether your applying for your first job or searching for a new job, a Curriculum Vitae (CV) is essential. There is no set format for a CV and everyone has their own opinion. These are some generic things I think you should adhere to.



Short and Succinct
They say that the average time spent reading a CV is 30 seconds. So keep it to a minimum. No one wants to read an essay!

Personal detail

Don't go overboard with the personal detail. Full name, address, telephone number (1 land line, 1 mobile) and email is sufficient. There is no need to include your marital status, your nationality etc. One other thing use a professional sounding email address. princess.yourname@internetprovider.com or yourname.angel@internetprovider.com are okay for your everyday email but on your CV yourname@internetserviceprovider.com will do.

Font

Don't use funny fonts! Pick something that is easy to read.

Action words

When describing your skills and experiences try and use action verbs. For example: Evaluated, organised, negotiated, implemented, developed. This will demonstrate to the reader that you are a proactive person. Make use of a thesaurus so that your not using the same words over and over again.

Topics for discussion

Have points in the CV which will create points of discussion if you are called for an interview, this will give you something to prepare to talk about. However make sure you keep these relevant to the position your applying for. 1st prize in the egg and spoon race whilst your were in primary school is all very well, but unless your applying for the position of an egg and spoon racer it's not really relevant.

Bullet points

Bullet points can be a good way to get your point across whilst simultaneously keeping the points succinct. Again don't use any funny bullet points, keep to the dots or squares.

To add a picture or not to add a picture

Unless your  a model or an actor then I don't think a picture is needed. If you do want to a add a picture, make sure you look professional.

Spelling and Grammar
Spelling and grammar are important so make sure you spell check it. Make sure you appropriate language and don't use abbreviations. Ask people to proof read it for you. They may spot any errors you have missed and can offer ideas and improvements. Especially if you know someone who is already in the role your applying for.

Adapt

Keep a generic CV and tailor it to the job your applying for. This can be especially useful especially if your applying for different roles.

Update

Regularly update your CV, especially if you have any new achievements etc. to add. This will make it easier for you the next time you need to use it!

I hope you find this useful. Most importantly do not lie! Next post in this series coming up on Wednesday.