CV Advice
With the UK job market more competitive than ever, you need to give employers a reason why you are the obvious candidate for the advertised position. But, how do you do that???
- Your CV is the small piece of you an employer gets to see. Together with your covering letter, it's what will potentially get you an interview. So, the more compelling and easy to read, the more likely it will convince someone that you're the right person for the job.
- The CV should be pleasing on the eye. The best fonts to use are Times New Roman or Arial.
- Each and every aspect of your CV should be drafted with the company and job that you’re applying for in mind. You need to build the expectations of the employer slowly but steadily so they'll want to get you in for an interview. Clearly highlight what you can bring to the job and company.
- Keep the CV crisp and easy to read and no longer than 2 pages. An employer will only look at your CV for a few seconds. So try and use simple language and short sentences and use bullet points to break down complicated information.
To stand out from the rest we recommend
- Always write a fresh CV for each job. This way it’ll be personal and tailored to match the specific requirements of the role you’re after.
- Collect information about the company and the job. This will help you decide what they’re looking for in a new employee.
- Stick to selling your best attributes.
- Keep up to speed with all the latest technology, training and jargon relevant to the job. Drop them in here and there to show your knowledge is up-to-date.
Sample CV for Students & Graduates
Your Name
Address, Town, Post Code
Phone/Mobile
E-mail
Profile/Objective
If you include a profile or career objective, make it short, punchy and relevant - two to three sentences is enough.
Education
- Date Attended, Name of University, City
- Course Studied
- Qualification
- Date Attended, Name of College, City
- Course Studied & Qualification
- Date Attended, Name of School, City
-
X GCSE Passed grades C and above including; Maths, English & Science
Work Experience (cover a period of 3 to 5 years of work experience if applicable)
- Date, Name of Company, City
- Job Title
- Roles & Responsibilities
- Date, Name of Company, City
- Job Title
- Roles & Responsibilities
- Date, Name of Company, City
- Job Title
- Roles & Responsibilities
Most employers check dates when they go through CVs. They may become suspicious of any break that is unaccounted for. Employers are looking for an explicit path through education and employment.
If you have a gap within your CV make sure you explain what was happening during that time. Reassure a potential employer that you were gaining knowledge, developing skills and generally making yourself efficient.
Skills
Consider whether to highlight a few (2- 4) skills which you feel are key to the role and reflect your key strengths. Use specific examples from your experience.
Interests/Activities/Positions of Responsibility
Make this title fit your profile. This section can show your enthusiasm, motivation and commitment. Put university activities first and highlight skills you have developed and any achievements, these could be helping to organise events, find sponsors, etc. This section should not be just a list, it can give a more rounded picture of you.
References