30/09/2012
Secrets to a power CV – Worth a read if you looking for work
The sole purpose of a CV is to get you an interview so think of a CV as your personal marketing tool. In order for it to fulfil your purpose you need to make sure that it contains certain elements, these may vary depending on the industry you are going into, but in general you should follow the points below:
1. Keep it short:
We’re talking one or two pages max. A well-presented single sheet with obvious key points and carefully constructed sentences is much more impressive than nine pages of irrelevant detail.
2. Be direct:
Use concise sentences and make them active – begin sentences with words like ‘Initiated’ or ‘Organised’ instead of ‘I was responsible for…’
Stick to facts and avoid vague claims. Proofread it properly and give it to someone reliable who can look for typos. It has to be perfect.
3. Pay attention to the order of the information:
(See part 2)
4. Tailor it:
Angle your CV for the specific job you are applying for. Make sure that your skills match what the employer is looking for. Highlight your skills that match the employer’s needs in one or two brief sentences.
5. Include a covering letter:
Get straight to the point; describe in one or two sentences why you would be right for the job. Address the letter to a specific person – if you don’t know who it should go to, phone and find out.
6. Don’t send a photo:
Unless it’s for acting or a modelling job it is very unlikely to be relevant. In fact, this more likely to hurt your chances than help you. Send a photo if they ask for one and rather try and secure an interview.
7. Don’t get too creative:
Professional is the name of the game. Clip art, border patterns or fancy fonts will not help you. If you want to stand out, think careful, concise and short.
8. Don’t leave gaps:
It’s critical to account for all your time –if you spent a year travelling, say so. If you don’t fill in all the gaps, employers will think you are either sloppy or hiding something.