How to write a CV
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Getting started
There is no unique way of writing your cv; many companies have a company format and you may have seen some that you find both efficient and attractive. Use them as model formats if it helps; otherwise start with a blank sheet of paper.
Many find writing their first cv something of an embarassment as there may be little to say that seems worthwhile! If you find yourself having difficulties put yourself in the position of the reader; what would the reader make of you from what you have said?
Be prepared to discard versions that don't seem right - it's only paper at this stage!
Remember to put your personal details address and contact numbers clearly at the top of your CV. Some include a photo of themselves and this often helps add a personal touch to what is otherwise a rather impersonal document.
Try to keep your CV short, usually no more than two pages of A4 at somewhere betwee 10 and 12 font. Micro printing is not clever.
Most employers want to know:
your name and address
your age
your qualifications (including driving licence)
your education - starting with the most recently obtained qualification
your experience - starting with your last or present position
other interests
possibly a line or two explaining why you have applied to them, and finally
the names and contacts for two referees (whose permissionfor doing this you have already sought)
Do not try to advertise yourself by telling everybody how good you are; this is something those wishing to employ you will discover for themselves; they tend to know what they are looking for and will be judging you against that from your cv - so what you are writing and how you write it is a reflection of yourself.
If you have industrial experience briefly outline either the work you have done or list the responsibilities you have carried and their respective dates.
If you have taken a year "out" it helps to highlight the educational and developmental aspects of the year, such as studying some aspect of either culture or history in other countries, or other peoples' way of working, or for improving a foreign language, or simply planning and managing supporting yourself.
Remember no one, especially those who deal with recruitment, has time to waste and the easier your CV can be read the better. If, you have periods unaccounted for then be ready to explain why they exist, otherwise it might be assumed that you were involved in activities you would rather not mention, such as prison!
If you have industrial experience briefly outline either the work you have done or list the responsibilities you have carried and their respective dates.
Should you be invited to interview, it will be sensible to inform your self about the company you are going to visit and attempt to make the interview process a two way conversation by asking questions to those who interview you. If you applied as a geologist, do not be surprised when companies test your knowledge by presenting you with rock samples to identify and maps to read.
Please let us know if you have questions with compiling your CV and we will try to answer and support you.
There is always the possibility to speak to us about your current position and to discuss where opportunities for you may exist. We much prefer to know the applicants we forward as it helps us make a stronger case on their behalf.