How to write a good CV. CV means curriculum vitae, it is a document used when applying for jobs. It allows you to summarise your personal details like education, skills, experience and also enabling you to successfully sell your abilities to potential employers.
You can prepare a general CV which you can use to track many job opportunities or develop a targeted CV which is only for a specific job application. Also, you adopt the chronological format, functional format or a combination of the two to design your CV. However, below is tips on how to write and make a perfect CV.
How to write a good CV
1: Create the right type of CV for your circumstances. Decide whether the chronological, skills-based or academic CV is right for you.
2: Use active verbs when possible. For example, include words like ‘created’, ‘analysed’ and ‘devised’ to present yourself as a person who shows initiative.
3: A good CV doesn’t have any spelling or grammar mistakes. Use a spell checker and enlist a second pair of eyes to check over the document.
4: Avoid generic, over-used phrases such as ‘team player’, ‘hardworking’ and ‘multitasker’. Instead, provide real-life examples that demonstrate all of these skills.
5: Don’t put the term ‘curriculum vitae’ at the top of the page.
6: Make sure your email address sounds professional. If your personal address is inappropriate create a new account for professional use.
7: Don’t lie or exaggerate on your CV or job application. Not only will you demonstrate your dishonesty to a potential employer, but there can be serious consequences too.
8: Tailor your CV. Look at the company’s website and social media accounts, look to see if they’ve recently been mentioned in the local press and use the job advert to make sure your CV is targeted to the role and employer.
A good CV must contain the following headings.
- Complete contact information: name, address, phone number and e-mail
- General or specific position objective: what you want to do.
- Summary of Qualifications
- Experience: what you have done in the past e.g. internship, part-time jobs etc. and accomplishments
- Computer skills that you possess
- Special skills and activities
- Referees
