Writing your CV can be one of the toughest challenges when looking for a new opportunity, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for the perfect CV, it should always be clearly formatted, Chronological and short enough for a manager to scan quickly – and most importantly – tailored to the role you’re applying for. Whether you are writing your first CV or editing to update, here are some points to assist:
- Keep it short!
Usually a CV should be no more than two pages – and that’s two pages of A4 paper, Team managers and employers spend, an average, just 8 seconds looking at any one CV. Keep it short, to the point, and save those extra little details ready for the interview.
-Education and qualifications
List and date all previous education, including professional qualifications. Place the most recent first. Include qualification type/grades, and the dates. Mention specific modules only where relevant.
- Don't leave any gaps in your Work History!
This is very important - always ensure all gaps are covered within your CV - Even if you have a gap within employment or went travelling - ensure to include this - it is important that your work history dates flow and all months are covered - include months also in your dates, not just the year! Ensure to Include your job title, the name of the organisation, time in post, and your key responsibilities and always add in your job descriptions.
- Keep your CV current and up to date!
You should keep your CV up-to-date whether you’re looking for a job or not. Every time something significant occurs in your career, record it so you don’t later forget something that could be important. Also always check your personal statement and ensure it is relevant to the Job you are applying for - whether you are a social worker, community mental health nurse or occupational therapist it is important that it is up to date to where you are at within your professional life and ensure to update with any further details you feel necessary
- Be truthful on your CV
This does sound obvious, but it does happen! Blatant lies on your CV can land you in awkward situations when it comes to employers and agencies checking your background and references. The last thing you want is to start work and then lose your new opportunity. You also may get caught out at the interview stage when you suddenly can’t answer questions on what you claim to know. And that can be VERY awkward!
- Ensure your CV is clear, written in good English
When applying for roles, it is important that your CV is clear, concise and written in good English,. It is also recommended that your CV is proof read to ensure you are happy with Jargons used for the industry you are working within - check for spelling or grammar mistakes!
- Choose clear Fonts
Go for one of the standardfonts: Arial, Tahoma, or Helvetica if you prefer sans-serif fonts, and Times New Roman or Bookman Old Style if serif fonts are your usual pick.
Usually try to use 11 to 12 pt font size and single spacing. For your name and section titles, pick 14 to 16 pt font size.
