Writing a good CV
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Step 1... Content
- Organise what you want to say under headings.
- Write positively about yourself, show what you can do and what you are good at.
- Write clearly and to the point.
- Only include what you need to; height, weight, sex, whether you are married or single are not needed.
- Date of birth is not necessary but some people choose to include it.
- Update your CV regularly as your circumstances change.
Step 2... Length
- One to two pages is a good length. Three pages is too long.
- Keep sentences and paragraphs short and to the point.
- Make sure you have included enough information e.g. information about your job duties and not just the dates and job titles.
Step 3... Presentation
- Use a computer to word process your CV.
- Type it carefully.
- Font size 12-14 is best.
- Use one space after a comma and two spaces after a full stop.
- Take a space between paragraphs.
- Use a clear and easy to read font e.g. Arial, Times New Roman, Garamond.
- Photographs and fancy binders are not needed.
Step 4... Checking
- Check spelling yourself – don’t rely on the spellchecker.
- Check that your sentences are well written and make sense.
- Ask someone to proofread it and offer ideas before you print your final copy and send it off.
Step 5... Paper
- Use good quality white paper, employers prefer it.
