CV Writing Advice

The first step anybody looking for a new job needs to take is to get their CV in order. CPL’s recruitment consultants recommend that candidates review the following guidelines for writing a CV before creating a new CV.

• Ensure the information on your CV is clearly laid out. Keep the format/style consistent throughout.
• Use a suitable font size and ensure there is enough white spacing so that it does not look too cluttered.
• Each section should be clearly headed and generally all headings should be in bold.
• Keep your CV informative and concise. 2 to 3 pages is usually sufficient.
• Use bullet points – they make your CV easier to read than large paragraphs of text.
• Check spelling and grammar for accuracy. Some mistakes may not be detected with a spell check, so get someone else to proofread your CV for you before sending it to a recruitment consultant.

Tips on what information to put in your CV

• Include your contact details: your phone number, address and e-mail address.
• Use a sensible e-mail address and set up a new one for job applications if your normal e-mail address isn’t suitable. Remember you want to represent yourself in the most professional way possible.
• List each job in chronological order, beginning with your most recent position.
• Concentrate on the details of your 2 most recent jobs (unless you were only there for a short time), as these are the ones employers are most interested in.
• Treat internal promotion in each position as a new job and record the dates separately. List your job title and the start and finish date of each position.
• In each role set out your main responsibilities, duties and skills that could be transferred to another employer.
• Include your level of responsibility (if any), such as number of staff reporting to you.
• List your 2 or 3 most important work achievements in each position.
• Use action words to describe your responsibilities and achievements.

Before sending your CV, make sure to check out the CV checklist.