CV Advice Facts About CV Formats

Create a CV that gets results

A successful CV (or Curriculum Vitae) is one that lands you the interview. While CV templates may be quite general, there are definitive strategies to employ when writing a CV to increase your chances of success.

A professional CV must convey the positive difference you will make for each employer you approach. That requires customising your CV template to suit every opportunity that comes your way. By thoroughly researching the company, and by paying attention to key words in the job description, you’ll a get good sense of the organisation's needs. Use this knowledge to your advantage! Make sure your achievements show how you successfully handled similar situations.

The decision to hire is a ‘buying’ decision on the part of an employer and your CV is their first impression of you. Present yourself in a thoughtful, straightforward, easy-to-understand way. Look neat and organised. If this is challenging for you, seek design and writing help for a good CV format.

General Tips

• Often, the first person to see a CV uses a list of criteria to screen it ‘out’ rather than ‘in’. So, make sure your CV reflects the job description well.
• A CV is generally a door opener but can also be an effective follow-up tool after meeting someone.
• Some interviewers use CVs as a guide for asking questions. It is acceptable to keep your CV in front of you, but refer to it only when you need to.

CV Content DOs

• DO use keywords found in the position requirements
• DO show how your skills and achievements made a difference
• DO use numbers and percentages to show measurable successes wherever possible
• DO illustrate how past employers were better off because of your contributions
• DO use a simple design with clear headings
• DO use a universal typeface, such as Arial
• DO feature specific and quantifiable achievements rather than duties and responsibilities
• DO use verbs such as created, enhanced, saved, launched, negotiated
• DO be concise
• DO list your work history and educational details starting with the most recent
• DO check and recheck for spelling and grammatical errors
• DO leave out irrelevant or negative information

CV Content DON’Ts

• DO NOT send poor quality photocopies
• DO NOT exaggerate or misrepresent your accomplishments
• DO NOT claim complete responsibility for achievements
• DO NOT write a novel
• DO NOT use casual abbreviations, overly descriptive language or jargon