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CV TIPS

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Unless you are a Board level candidate, we would recommend a CV of no more than two pages long. Statistics show that clients tend to lose interest in CV’s which are too ‘wordy’. Complex wording should also be avoided. If the client doesn’t understand what you actually do, why would they hire you? Stick to a modern font such as Calibri or Helvetica as opposed to something too ornate or in italics. A brief review of a CV should be all that is required to gain a client’s initial interest. On that basis you need to get it right and a potential employer should be able to easily see the skills and qualifications that you possess.

DON’T LEAVE GAPS

It is always best to start off on the right foot with a potential employer and changing your CV, amending details and deleting previous employers is an absolute no no’. It is also really important that you include both months and years of employment on your CV. It’s not the end of the world if you have had movement on your CV. Of course, it will need to be explained. Clients appreciate that relocation, changes in circumstances, office closures and other issues can all result in completely justifiable reasons for leaving a previous role.

KEEP YOUR CV RELEVANT TO THE CAREER/ROLE YOU ARE SEEKING

Don’t send a generic CV out in mass. A CV which is tailored to the specific role or career you are seeking demonstrates that you know your value and what you want to do both in the short and long term.

Remember your CV is the first point of contact the client has from you. They need to be able to quickly assess your suitability and this is much easier for them to do if the key components of their role or sills they require match the details on your CV.

INCLUDE KEY INFORMATION

The following should always be included: Name, address, telephone numbers (both home and mobile) and email address. A link to your Linked in profile if you have one.  Your qualifications must be clearly displayed and easy to read.   A word of warning: clients often check information against Linked In profiles so ensure both your CV and profile are factually correct.

SPELL CHECK

It’s crucial that you both spellcheck and reread your CV through at least twice. It needs to ‘flow’ and errors could be viewed as rushed work or a lack of attention to detail. We would always recommend you ask someone else to proofread your CV. A second opinion is never a bad thing!

EMPHASISE YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS BOTH PERSONALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY

On a personal level it is always good to emphasis any significant achievements – these can make you stand out from other applicants.  You should always include a couple of achievements relating to recent roles and perhaps one that is personal.

Examples could include – how you made a difference in your last role – something that you achieved with learners or members of your team – these achievements need to ideally be measurable.  A personal achievement is also a great thing to add as it gives the client an insight into you.  This could be something sporting, in the community or family or an achievement that is personal to you.

Have your CV stand out from those of other applicants