CVs

A CV is a way of advertising your skills, qualifications, knowledge and abilities to a potential employer.  Most employers will only spend around 30 seconds looking at each CV so it’s important to make a really good impression. Think of it as your opportunity to “sell yourself” and make an employer want to meet you.

There are not set rules about how you should lay out your CV but it’s usual to include:

  • Your name and contact details
  • A personal profile – a couple of short paragraphs that highlight your strengths and skills
  • Your education – names and dates of the secondary schools and colleges that you’ve attended
  • Your qualifications – include any predicted grades
  • Details of any employment, work experience or voluntary work
  • A small piece on your hobbies or interests
  • Details of two people who will act as referees

Top tips for writing your CV

  • Keep your CV to a maximum of two sides of A4
  • Word process it - handwriting looks untidy and can be difficult to read
  • Use clear headings, black type face and the same font throughout 
  • Information should be presented in a logical order.  Don’t invent things or leave unexplained gaps
  • Make sure you tailor your CV to the vacancy you’re applying for.  Read the job description and mark the key points then try to match your experience and skills to these
  • Use plain white or cream paper to print your CV on
  • Get someone else to check your finished CV for spelling mistakes and grammatical errors
  • Remember to save a copy

Keep your CV up-to-date by adding new qualifications, skills and experiences as you gain them.

You’ll find more information on CVs and other ways of applying for jobs by visiting the websites tab above.

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