Writing a CV is one of the most important steps in your job search process and knowing what to include in your CV is key! When you’re making applications, having a well-crafted CV can make a huge difference in helping you land the perfect job!
This article is the first in a series of posts on writing your perfect CV. Check out the links in the text below to learn more about writing each individual section.
In order to write a CV that will make be easy to read and help you land an interview, there are certain sections that you’ll need to include:
- Start with your Contact Information: You should start your CV with your name, address, phone number, and email address. This is so that the employer can easily contact you.
- Summarize your skills and experience into a short Profile Section: After your contact information, you should provide a brief summary of your skills, experience, and qualifications. This should be a paragraph or two that highlights why you would be an ideal candidate for the job.
- Provide details about your Education and Certifications: Depending on the length of your career so far this section could be placed before or after your Career History. As a rule of thumb, if your career to date is less than five years long, put it before your Career History. If your tenure is longer than five years, then place your Education after your Career History. You should provide details about your education, such as your degree, diploma, chartership, memberships, professional affiliations, and any relevant courses you have taken. Be sure to list any honors or awards you have received.
- List your Career History: Next, you should list your career history in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position. Each position should include the name of the company, the position you held, and a description of your duties. Make sure to include any projects that you’ve been a part of and what your role was on that project. Include relevant project details such as value, size, and scope.
- Include your Hobbies/Interests (optional): List and discuss your hobbies and interests if you wish. This section can show how well-rounded you are as an individual.
- Include relevant References (optional): Here you can list any recent and relevant references. If you wish to include this section, then make sure that you have your referee’s permission to list their name and details on your CV. Prioritize references from recent and relevant positions that you’ve held.
After including the above sections you should make sure to proofread and edit: Once you have finished writing your CV, you should proofread and edit it to ensure that it is error-free – There are few things worse than stating that you’ve excellent attention to “detal”! – This is an important step that will help you to make a good impression.
By following the above steps, you can create a CV that will help you to stand out from the competition and increase your chances of getting the job you want. Good luck!
