CV writing Objectives To learn the most effective layout of a CV To learn about the parts of an effective CV To write your own personal profile via skills practice To learn how to use CVs well when applying for jobs To identify the next steps in writing your own CV

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CV impact An employer will be looking to see: Can you do the job? Do you have the necessary skills, ability and qualifications? Will you be conscientious, reliable and turn up for work?

The potential employer will see your CV before they see you, so it needs to have impact. Remember, the CV is the document that ‘sells’ you to the employer, so make sure you create a positive initial impression.

It is likely that you will need to tailor your CV each time to meet the requirements of a specific job.

The CV needs to motivate the employer to go to the next stage of the recruitment process, the interview.

What should a CV contain? The following is the best format for presenting your CV to potential employers.

Six main areas are covered in a CV (but not necessarily in this order): Personal details Personal profile Employment history and experience Skills Qualifications and training Interests

You may also want to include: Other information (optional)

Finally, always mention that references are available on request.

How to write a CVPersonal details

Name

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Address, telephone number and email Laws on age discrimination mean that you do not need to put your age,

date of birth or marital status on your CV.

Personal profile

Use this section to sell yourself. Highlight the skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for. But don’t exaggerate (as you could be found out!)

Personal profile example 1 – Business

I have a clear, logical mind with a practical approach to problem solving and a drive to see things through to completion. I have a great eye for detail. I am eager to learn, I enjoy overcoming challenges, and I have a genuine interest in Business.

Personal profile example 2 – IT

I am an open-minded individual with a proven track record in designing websites and creating databases. I have strong technical skills as well as excellent interpersonal skills. I am eager to be challenged in order to grow and improve my communication and professional IT skills gained through previous experiences in the IT sector.

Personal profile example 3 – Fashion Retail

I am a responsible, intelligent and experienced retail professional with an extensive background in fashion and children’s’ wear both in large departments and small boutiques. I am a creative, adaptable and bright individual with an excellent eye for detail and design.

Personal profile example 4 – Administration

I am an open-minded, friendly and resourceful administrator with a sound and optimistic outlook on all things in life. I possess an excellent ability to motivate others, coupled with the ability to communicate comfortably at all levels; I have excellent computer and telephone skills.

Personal profile example 5 – Sales retail

I am a mature, positive and hardworking individual, who always strives to achieve the highest standard possible, at any given task. I possess excellent communication skills and I have the ability and experience to relate to a wide range of people. I enjoy learning new things, I can work very well under pressure and I have the sales experience to handle customer complaints and solving problematic situations.

Personal profile example 6 – Working with children

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I am a loyal, talented and caring person who loves making a difference into the lives of young children. I am open-minded, patient and supportive towards other people, especially towards children or those who suffer from disabilities. I have an excellent ability to remain good-humoured and unflappable under pressure.

Employment history and experience

This should be shown as your most recent first* and include the following information: Names and details of previous employers Start and end dates of employment Positions held and main duties and responsibilities – this will be what

most employers will be interested in Any achievements and specialist skills

You may divide the sections into Relevant Employment History and Other Employment History. This can be beneficial if your most recent experience is not your most relevant.

Skills

Transferable - skills learnt in one field of work that can easily be adapted to a different field.

Job-related - skills or qualifications that are directly relevant to a specific job.

Adaptive - skills that are difficult to substantiate because they cannot be proven by experience but by personality traits.

Examples of skills

Communication Teamwork Interpersonal Responsible Problem solving Organisational Flexibility Adaptable Computer skills Technical skills

Qualifications and training

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Professional and vocational training Further or higher education (college or university) Secondary education (school) Include dates of attendance Include grades achieved (optional)

Interests

Be relevant Be relatable Be honest Be authentic Be positive Be passionate Be unique Be concise

Do not skip this section on application forms.

References

Do not include referees’ contact details on your CV.

You should have 2 references, one being your most recent employer if suitable.

You supply these if you are successful at interview.

At the bottom of your CV, write: References available on request.

Other information

If there are gaps in your CV, it is useful to include an “Other Information” section.

Give positive reasons for any career breaks and describe the skills you used during this time.

If the job you are applying for is different from what you have done in the past, explain why you are interested in this type of work.

Include additional information that you may think is useful for the employer to know. For example, “holds a full UK driving licence” or “fluent speaker in French and Spanish”.

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CV hints and tips Keep your CV to one or two pages depending on experience

Use a standard font and size that is clear to read, such as Arial 12 point

Have an easy to read layout

Use short sentences. Long sentences are complicated and difficult to read. Short sentences can be scanned quickly.

Arrange your information carefully. Don’t miss out important bits such as qualifications or employment.

Check for spelling mistakes and errors. Ask someone to proofread it for you.

Use white space - not too full of text

Use bullet points

Use bold for headings

If you are posting your CV, print on white or cream coloured paper.

Email your CV as a Word attachment or PDF file.

Be positive – you can answer any questions face-to-face at the interview.

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Activity 2 – My personal profilePractise writing your personal profile.

Use the space below to write down some ideas:

Write your personal profile here:

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CV

Name

Address

Telephone

Email

ProfileSummary of your skills, experience and personal qualities

SkillsClear and concise as bullet points

Work historyInclude the details of your previous employment with the most recent first. Include your job title, job role, name and location of company, dates, responsibilities and any achievements.

EducationList the name of your school, college or university with the appropriate qualifications here (include dates and, ideally, grades).

Hobbies and interestsInclude hobbies and interests. Make it interesting and, when possible, make it relevant to the job you are applying for.

Other informationFor example, full driving licence. Use this space to explain any career breaks.

References available on request.

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Personal action plan – CV writingWhat have I learnt?

What more support do I need?

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