Creating a CV is essential if you want to get an interview. Listed below are some steps that can help you get noticed by the employers.

CV Template

Firstly, using a template can help structure your CV. Softwares such as Microsoft Word can help personalise your information and present it in a professional way – in which you can then post these on websites such as Adzuna, Indeed, LinkedIn, etc.

  1. Font– Use a font that is easy to read and understand such as Arial, and try to go with 11-12 pts for the font size.
  2. Colour– The only colour which works best for the CV is black.
  3. Design– Keep the design simple and easy to read with enough white space for the headings. Break up sections 
  4. File Format -The best choice will be the Word file as pdf files are not accepted with some companies software.

Writing The CV

Writing your CV is the best way to ensure you have total confidence over how to present yourself in the interview. It is important to learn your CV to ensure you are not taken off guard if asked about previous experiences, education or references in an interview. Applicants will appear more employable and confident in what they can bring to the company. 

As well as this, you must always be honest. Never fabricate the truth on your CV, on the chance that you could get caught out, this will immediately eliminate you from the application process. 

Personal Details/Personal Statement 

This is the part where you can make a difference among the crowd, so you should briefly explain about yourself and the role you are looking for. It is usually split into two sections and includes the strengths and skills that you have built alongside your personal information – so employers can contact you.

Education

You should always begin with the highest level of certification or qualification that you have managed to attain. If you have achieved a degree, be sure to include the University name and the grade you received. As you continue through your studies (going backwards in time), you could potentially add in the courses that you studied – especially if it is for a degree or anything that tailors your CV towards the job roles that you are searching for. For example, if you have studied BA Hons in Business & Marketing, the modules could include CyberPsychology, Account & Finance or Consumer Research, this will automatically let your prospective employer know that you have knowledge in this area specifically. 

Work Experience

Previous jobs and internships should be written in chronological order. Be sure to include the company name, location, job title, dates of your work and tasks you have completed. Additionally, if there are any gaps in your CV, employers may question this so again, be honest and explain the reason properly. 

Skills & Achievements

Include a section to highlight your skills and achievements that are related to the extra-curricular activities or the certification of specific courses. This will really help boost your employability.

Hobbies & Interest 

It’s not always mandatory to include these kinds of details in your CV, however, you can provide information about your hobbies, i.e sports and travel, as this will make your CV stand out over other applicants, as it will appear more interesting to employers.

Overall your CV should represent you in the best possible way. Be honest about your work experience, certifications and grades as some companies can verify this through background checks. You can also include your social media accounts such as LinkedIn, as most companies conduct research for hopeful employees.

Try to make sure that your CV is short and sweet (1-2 A4 pages) and always check your grammar and spelling before submitting. To know more about English Grammer and Spellings Visit TLF Blogs.