Writing your CV

What's a CV?
A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a written summary of your personal details, education, qualifications, skills and experiences.

Why do you need one?
Some employers ask for a CV instead of an application form. You can also use it if you make a speculative approach to an employer.
A good CV can give you that extra edge over other applicants and help you get an interview.

What to write on a CV
There are no strict rules but here is a guide:

Your name

Contact details
Address,
Phone number,
Email if you have one.

Some brief details about you
Your career aims, what you have to offer.

Your qualifications/achievements
Don't just stick to what you've done at school or college. Highlight any skills that might be useful for the job e.g. a driving licence or knowledge of an ethnic minority language.

Your skills
You probably need to rewrite this section every time you apply for a job. Look at the vacancy and highlight any skills that the company are asking for. Always stress your communication and IT skills as you need these for most jobs.

Work experience
Include part time or voluntary work.

Names and contact details of referees
Normally 2 - remember to ask them first!


Top 5 CV Tips
• Keep it short: no-one will read more than 2 sides of A4; the aim is to get an interview, not tell the employer your life story!
• Make sure it's easy to read, with plenty of space between sections.
• You can change the order of the sections but start with your name and contact details and put referee details at the end.
• Use plain language and check spelling and grammar.
• Always keep a copy.
• Don't use the same CV every time - adapt it for every application you make, depending on the vacancy.