Writing your CV

When writing your CV, remember that its only purpose is to secure an interview. From that point on it is down to you to stand out. The most common mistake in CV writing is to put either too much or too little information on the page. We've put together the following advice which should help you prepare an interesting document and deliver positive results.

Contact Details: Everyone knows to put their name and address on a CV but you would be amazed at the amount we receive without a phone number or email address. This basic error makes it very difficult for a potential employer or agent to contact you, so don’t forget it.

Facts: At the beginning profile who you are, your character traits, your motivations and your ambitions. If you have a career history, you should list your achievements to date. Additionally a statement in this section should be relevant to the role you are applying for.

Order: List your previous employment in order starting with the most recent and working backwards.

Education: Don’t exaggerate, many company’s check this information.

Concise Information: This is no time to be writing an essay! As previously mentioned the sole purpose of the CV is to secure an interview. You should create enough interest in the content but leave the reader wanting more which should provoke an interview request.

Relevance: If you are moving into a new career, highlight the transferable experience you have gained through your work, social or academic life. The more tailored your CV is to the role, the more likely you will receive an interview request.

Hobbies & Interests: Hobbies and interests say a lot about who you are and will help the interviewer form a picture of you. Any achievements you have made, no matter how small, should be included.

Colours, Fonts & Graphics: A note of caution, putting bright colours on your CV may make it stand out but not in a good way! The same goes for text in multiple font sizes and graphics around the border of the page. We advise against extra decoration which can be distracting, and does not seem professional.