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Preparing your CV
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When applying for any position, it is important to remember that a good CV is more likely to lead to a job interview and each CV should be tailored to a specific job application.
Prospective employers, want to see (on paper), why you are suitable for their vacancy, so please make sure you fully understand the job description and outline your experience where appropriate. Remember, your CV should provide enough information to entice an employer to want to interview you.
We have provided some useful tips to consider when preparing your CV.
Personal Information – This should include the following information:-
Name:
Address;
Telephone/mobile number:
Email address:
Personal Statement/Profile – This should be no more than a paragraph which focusses on your best attributes, enticing the reader to find out more about you!
Key Skills – Use a bullet point format highlighting your skills specifically for the job you are applying for. This can also include transferrable and adaptive skills.
Employment History – This should start with your most recent employer first and continue in reverse chronological order. It is also helpful to outline a brief overview of the company you are working for (e.g. turnover, industry sector), or provide the company website. List your current job title, dates of employment, duties, responsibilities, and key achievements within that role (aim to use bullet points where possible).
Education – In reverse chronological order, provide details of your academic and professional qualifications, and the grades you achieved.
Hobbies & Interests – This is optional; however, it gives an employer a rounded overview and perhaps a more personal discussion point at interview.
References – It is not necessary to provide contact details of your reference but you should outline that these may be provided on request.
Do’s & Don’ts – When preparing your CV – Resist the temptation to “jazz up” your CV with images & colour, and use typefaces such as Times New Roman or Arial (these fonts make a CV easier to read). Keep your CV concise and avoid using long paragraphs. Check for spelling and typographical errors (do not just rely on spell checker).