HOW TO CREATE A WINNING C.V

Your CV is one of the most important parts of
your job search. Hiring managers want to see
what your qualifications are and what your
experience is – your CV is your selling tool. Always
ensure that your CV is up-to-date and ready to
make a lasting impression on the any recruiter or
hiring manager. Use the tips we've listed below to
ensure that you're on the right track and that
your CV is always of a high standard.

Remember the basics

While there are plenty of ways to write and
create a CV, it's important that your basic
information is always included in your CV.
Information like your qualifications, skills, work
experience, and contact information should be in
your CV, despite the design or format.

Make your CV look good

Your CV needs to be clear and concise.Ensure that
your curriculum vitae is always easy-to-read and
well-structured. Forget fancy borders and curly
font, for example – you're not in high school
anymore and therefore shouldn't act like you are.

Keep your CV short

Forget long winding paragraphs and multiple
adjectives. Your CV should always be factual and
easy to read; avoid endless sentences. If anything
needs detailing, use your interview to add
anything that you've omitted. Try to fit your CV
on a maximum of two A4 pages (or one A4 page
back to back). If you find it difficult to
incorporate important information, try applying
bullet points to things such as work
responsibilities, interests and qualifications. Keep
in mind; most organisations simply glance over a
CV to find the important bits, which is why it's
essential that you keep your CV short and concise.

Customise your current CV

After you understand what the job entails, create
your CV with the job role in mind. Never simply
send the same CV to different organisations
without customising it, as every job requires its
own set of skills and experience. By sending a
tailored CV you'll show the recruiter or hiring
manager that you understand the job description
and have put in the effort to ensure you suit the
role. Laziness certainly never got anyone anywhere.

Your expertise should be highlighted

Mention skills that you've acquired throughout
your career and that will make you stand out
from other applicants. Interests need to link in
with your skills and enhance them. Avoid listing
passive interests that could imply you don't get
along with other people, for example.

References are important

When listing references, ensure that the people
you are listing is aware of it. Your references
should know you well and be able to give a review
about your work ethic. Choose your references
well and always keep them informed if you're in
the running for the job.

Make certain your CV is up-to-date

Have a look at your CV every now and then to
make sure that it stays current. If you've
recently acquired a new skill or completed a
course, include it with your CV – the better your
CV, the better chances you have of getting the job.