How to write a good CV

Firstly, your CV is the key that unlocks the door to an interview. It should contain the information required to achieve that goal, and no more! It’s not an autobiography. You need to design your CV with the reader in mind, so study the job adverts you are applying for before you start writing or updating your CV.

Your CV must be short (no more than 3 pages), concise and absolutely truthful.

The employer is likely to have countless other CV’s to read through so they may scan your CV as opposed to reading it in detail. Write a brief punchy summary near the top to encourage the recipient to read the whole document.

Use bold to highlight the key words you really want to emphasise.

Concentrate on writing what you have achieved in short sentences rather than pasting in your whole job description.

Include a technical summary (ideally on the first page). Ensure you keep your technical snapshot up to date, particularly if you are uploading your CV onto job boards to ensure employers can find you.

Use this Format:

• Name
• Personal details (including contract details, marital status, nationality and date of birth)
• Qualifications/professional certifications
• Summary/key achievements
• Technical snapshot
• Career history (most recent position first)
  • List your employer’s name, location and your job title. Also describe in brief the company’s business and provide an overview of the technologies used while working there.
  • Ensure all dates correspond and don’t leave any suspicious gaps.
• Leisure interests
• Referees

Remember, a good CV will get you interviews which ultimately lead to job offers!

Finally, employers are likely to look you up on LinkedIn and other networking sites, so make sure you keep your profile up to date and the information available online is consistent with your CV.