Essential Job Tips – Your CV

Finding a new job or changing jobs is a daunting task but there are some simple things you need to know which can make the whole experience a lot easier and smoother.

Think of your CV as a sales document - you are selling yourself to potential employers and, as such, it should be a professional and concise representation of you and your employment history.

Don't be tempted to write a novel! For a longer career, up to four pages is generally acceptable, while anything longer will likely see your CV consigned to the reject pile. With positions you held many years before, it may not be relevant to mention the job at all. In other cases, it may warrant the inclusion of a single line with the period worked, name of company and position held.

Your CV should include the following basic information:

Your personal details (name, address, telephone number, email address) are the obvious starting point as you need your prospective employer to be able to contact you easily in regards to your job application.

Professional qualifications (if any) and be honest.  Many people are tempted to be a little loose with the truth in this area from slight exaggeration to an out and out lie!  While many employers look to professional qualifications as a filter in the event that they get lots of applications a strong CV with good professional experience should hold its own if you have been in a “learn on the job” role.

Career history, starting with your most recent job and working backwards and again honesty is the best policy.  It has become increasingly easier for employers to verify this information so don’t leave out positions or talk yourself up to be more than you have been.  Often a simple Google search will reveal any descrepancies particularly if you have made contributions to web sites or have had a role which involved media contact.

Your achievements in each role should also be highlighted but be concise and make sure you only highlight that which deserves to be.  Simply accomplishing the tasks which would be expected to be a normal part of your job is nothing to brag about.

At least two referees and their contact details may be provided, however, you should ensure your referees are prepped and expect the call.  It is also acceptable to note that references can be provided on request which allows you the freedom to apply for many positions knowing that your chosen referees will not be inundated with calls unless you are in a final selection.

The format of your CV should be very clear and easy to read, with a simple font like Ariel or Times New Roman, using 11 or 12 point size and one and half line spacing. Highlight the names of your employers, the position you held and the years spent working there.

Your CV is part of the first impression you make with an interviewer and first impressions count for a lot! It's worth putting a lot of effort in to craft an outstanding CV to give yourself every advantage in a very competitive arena.