Five top tips for writing a CV 

When applying for jobs, whether that’s an apprenticeship, within a business or a contractor for example, a CV is often requested by those recruiting. The document provides an overview on you, including your previous work experience, qualifications you have achieved or are studying, and can even include your hobbies and interests. The document is used to introduce yourself to a prospective employer which will enable them to ask you questions about things you can talk about confidently, such as your work history or your hobbies. 

Your CV should be a true representation of you, and you should be able to back up everything you have written about yourself. Consider keeping a folder of this information in case an employer asks for it. Save documents such as your certificates of education and examples of work you have completed. 

Ensure you keep it current and up to date. It is an ever-evolving document and should be added to when you gain new qualifications, change jobs or have new skills to add. 

Our five top tips to writing a good CV are:  

     – Ensure your spelling is correct
       Ask someone to proofread it to make sure all spelling and grammar used is correct.

     – Give it some structure 
       Make sure it is easy to read and that it makes sense to the reader. Have a look at some CV templates on the internet, or on Word.

     – Make it interesting to read and look at
Employers read a lot of applications. Make sure yours stands out from the rest.

     – Adapt your CV to suit specific job descriptions 
       Make sure you look at the job description and tailor your CV so that it best suits what the employer is looking for.

     – Keep it concise! 
       As employers do receive so many CVs, it’s good to keep it short and straight to the point. A CV should be no more than two sides of A4

A cover letter

A cover letter usually accompanies your CV. This is essentially an overview, introducing yourself to the employer and noting that you are applying for ‘x’ role. You might also include any gaps in your employment and include any skills you obtained during your time out of employment, if for example you were a carer for someone. Include your contact details, a ‘thank you’ for considering your application and that you look forward to hearing from them.  

Just like a CV, this should be tailored depending on the job you are applying for. Ensure your grammar and spelling is correct and that you have the details of the business you are applying to are correct.