CV Tips

Preparing your best CV

Your CV is an important part of the job search process. It’s the first thing potential employers will see from you and it’s often the ticket to a job interview. With so much varying advice out there, we’ve compiled the following information in categories to ensure your resume is the best it can be.

What is the best CV layout?

The layout of your CV (also sometimes referred to as a resume) is less important than what you put in it but a good CV outline should include:

1. Full name and contact details
2. Short summary - this is your 'elevator pitch' or a bit about you as a professional
3. Optional: include a small section listing your key skills
4. Work history/experience in reverse chronological order - starting with your most recent position
5. References (or you can also put 'Referees available on request')

Design tips for your CV

Functionality and conciseness is the most important component of a CV. Unless you work in a creative industry, a carefully designed CV won't give you any edge, but a CV that has no spelling mistakes, is carefully curated, and tells the hiring manager exactly what they need to know definitely will! Here are our top tips for your CV design:

• Keep it tidy - don't squash text in
• Allow for white space to make the document easy to read
• Use a simple font such as Arial or similar
• Don't include a photo - it's not necessary
• Spellcheck and proof read
• No loud colours, generally black and white is preferred

What to include in your CV

A common question is 'how long should my CV be?' The good news is, we don't believe in putting a limit on your CV. If you've got loads of experience that is relevant and needs to be included, then your CV is going to be longer. The important thing is to keep information concise and easy to read. Here's a few tips on how to write a great CV:

• Write in first person - use 'I' in sentences
• Use simple language as if you were explaining it in person
• Use keywords that were used in the job ad or selection criteria, but don't 'keyword stuff'
• List outcomes and achievements rather than simply stating job responsibilities or functions
• Show results if possible - if your job is not numbers focused, you could include specific feedback from performance reviews
• Incorporate transferable skills and soft skills
• Think about the value you could offer your employer and communicate that

What not to include in your CV

• It is not necessary to include your photo, an address or any personal information outside of what is required to do the job

Making your CV stand out

• Add links to an online portfolio, LinkedIn profile or other relevant content
• Cater each resume to a job role - slight changes can make all the difference!
• Be specific, not generic
• Add in volunteer positions or special interests that demonstrate transferrable skills

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