Have you just started your job search? Do you need to write a compelling CV? We are here to help you. Firstly, don’t panic… if you are staring at a blank screen when trying to compile your CV you are not alone. We have all been there!

Condensing all your skills and experiences into one slick document can be challenging. It does take time and patience to write a great CV. Employers and recruiters get a constant flow of CV’s and applications, so it is vital to get your CV right.

CHECK OUT OUR ”TOP 10 CV WRITING TIPS” AND PREPARE YOUR KILLER CV TODAY.

1) HOW LONG SHOULD A CV BE?

A CV should be no more than 2 pages long. Your CV is a tasty appetiser that will get people coming back for more. So, use as few words as possible and get your message across quickly. Only focus on essentials, this would be all the information that relates to the job description. However, if all your experience is relevant, don’t worry about going over too much. Try to keep your CV to a maximum of 3 pages.

2) WHAT DO EMPLOYERS LOOK FOR IN A CV?

Someone with the right skills and knowledge to perform the job. Clearly explain why you would be suitable for the job role. Use the keywords that recruiters and employers are using in their job description. The more relatable keywords you use the more you become a strong candidate for the role. If you are using an online database, keywords are essential as they make your CV more visible to recruiters and employers. Bring your accomplishments to life by using numerical data where possible to reinforce your capabilities for the job role that you are applying for. Once you have written your CV, always remember to proofread thoroughly for misspellings and grammatical errors.

3) WHAT FONT SHOULD I USE IN MY CV?

Keep it simple! Use a clear, plain font that looks professional and is easy to read – such as Arial, Tahoma or Verdana. Size matters too! Stick to 10/12pt mark – you can’t go wrong.

4) SHOULD I INCLUDE A PHOTO ON MY CV?

Including a photo on your CV depends on the job role that you are applying for. Generally speaking, you don’t need a picture of yourself on your CV. However, if you are going to include an image of yourself make sure that it is professional and that it fits in with the whole format of your CV.

5) DO I INCLUDE ALL OF MY EXPERIENCE ON MY CV?

You should include all of your experience on your CV for transparency. However, older or irrelevant roles can be shortened down to brief summaries.

6) SHOULD I HIDE EMPLOYMENT GAPS ON MY CV?

Take the guesswork out of your CV. You don’t want recruiters or employers scratching their heads trying to fill the gaps themselves. If you have long periods of unemployment you should be upfront and explain why. Keep this short and sweet. After all, it’s just to let them know what was keeping you occupied during that time. Ideally use constructive reasons such as personal projects, study or travelling.

7) SHOULD I INCLUDE INTERESTS ON MY CV?

As a general rule, only include interests if they are relevant to the roles you are applying for. If they will make a positive impact on your application add them in but don’t get too carried away. Always keep it as professional as possible.

8) DO I NEED A COVER LETTER?

Typing a persuasive, personalised cover letter shows you are serious about your career and the opportunity that you have applied for. It should paint a clear picture of who you are, what you are looking for and why you want to engage in further conversation. If you are applying
for a variety of different job roles, remember to tailor your cover letter to the role that you are applying for to make it more personal and less robotic.

9) SHOULD I INCLUDE REFERENCES IN MY CV?

Employers won’t contact references until they have intentions of potentially offering you the job. You don’t need to list them on your CV. Instead of a one-liner such as ‘references available upon request’ will do the trick.

10) WHAT IF I HAVE NO EXPERIENCE?

Everyone has to start somewhere, so no need to worry if this sounds like you. This is where you need to bring out everything you have done, that will set you up for success in the working world. Think training, education, extra projects, charity, or volunteer work etc.

Have you already got your killer CV ready? Explore our wide range of job opportunities today. If you need any help writing your CV get in touch, we will always be happy to help!