Creating an effective CV
A CV or Curriculum Vitae provides a potential employer with your education and employment history. It can also be handy when completing application forms.
It is important that your CV is set out so that it can be read and understood with ease. It should be free of spelling mistakes and contain accurate information, although this should be altered to suit the needs of the job you are applying for.
Be sure not to leave unexplained gaps in your employment history. If you have spent a few years at home bringing up the children, then say so on your CV.
The general tone of your CV should be positive, demonstrating a confident and motivated person. This can be achieved by using words such as “directed”, “created”, and “supervised”.
Don’t be tempted into making a CV that is full of colour or many different fonts. It should be clear, easy to read, and on plain paper. If you can write your CV so that it is presented on a single page of A4 paper, then this is ideal. Sometimes it is necessary to use two sheets of paper, which is acceptable to most employers.
To help make your CV easy to read, you should use headings as set out below.
Personal details (Your name, address and date of birth)
Education and training (In reverse date order)
Employment History (Or work experience.)
Positions of responsibility
Interests
References (Details of two referees, typically these are your last two employers.)
How to write the perfect cover letter
Your cover letter should be short, yet provide enough content that makes the reader feel they should take the trouble to read your CV. It’s the first chance you have to impress your potential employer, make the most of it.
1. Be personal – Wherever possible direct the letter to the reader. Using the addressee’s title and surname are preferred to using their first name, as this may appear too personal.
2. State your intentions – Open you letter with a strong first sentence which clearly states your intention to apply for the job. Include any reference numbers that are available.
3. Structure the letter – Use your opening paragraph to tell the employer who you are and what you want. Your second paragraph should then go into more detail as to your relevant experience and skills, while the third paragraph should tell your employer how you will contribute to the company. Close off you letter clearly stating when you will be available for an interview.
4. Keep it brief - Avoid unnecessary detail that may already be included in your CV.
5. Customise your letter - Always tailor your letter according to the job you are applying for. Select a main responsibility or aspect of the role and give an example of why you are the perfect candidate.
6. Check it, check it and check it again – Be meticulous about spelling and grammar. One mistake and your application will be sent straight to the bin.
7. Contact details – This information should also be on your CV, but the easier it is for your employer to find your details and get hold of you the sooner you are on your way to your new job.