How to Write a CV

What is a CV? A CV, or curriculum vitae, is a document used for job applications. It summarises your education, skills, and relevant work experience, helping you to showcase your abilities to potential employers. In the UK, CVs are typically more detailed than résumés used in the USA and Canada.

How Long Should a CV Be? A standard CV in the UK should be no longer than two sides of A4. For example, a school leaver or recent graduate with minimal experience may only need one side of A4. On the other hand, a three-page CV might be needed for those in high-level roles or with extensive experience, such as medical or academic professionals. The key is to keep it concise, focusing on relevant information.

What Should I Include in My CV?

• Contact Details: Include your full name, home address, mobile number, and email address. There is no need to include your date of birth or a photograph unless specified.

• Profile: A concise statement highlighting your key attributes, achievements, and career aims, tailored to the sector you’re applying to.

• Education: List and date all previous education, including professional qualifications, with the most recent first.

• Work Experience: List your work experience in reverse chronological order, focusing on relevant roles. Include job titles, company names, dates, and key responsibilities.

• Skills and Achievements: Highlight relevant skills and achievements, such as foreign languages and IT proficiency.

• Interests: Include relevant hobbies and interests that provide a complete picture of who you are and can be discussed in an interview.

• References: You don’t need to provide names of referees at this stage. Simply state 'references available upon request.'

How Do I Format a CV?

• Avoid titling the document 'curriculum vitae' or 'CV'; use your name instead.

• Use section headings to break up your CV and make them stand out with a larger font size.

• Choose professional fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, and keep the font size between 10 and 12.

• List everything in reverse chronological order.

• Use bullet points to keep the content concise and easy to skim.

• Ensure there is white space around the content to make it easier to read.

• Name the document professionally, such as 'Your-Name-CV,' and save it as a .PDF unless specified otherwise.

How Do I Write a Good CV?

• Use active verbs such as 'created,' 'analysed,' and 'devised' to show initiative.

• Avoid spelling or grammar mistakes by using a spell checker and having someone else review your CV.

• Tailor your CV to each job, focusing on relevant skills and experiences.

• Create the right type of CV for your circumstances: chronological, skills-based, or academic.

• Ensure your email address is professional.

• Always include a cover letter to personalise your application.

  
  

How Do I Navigate Gaps in My CV?

Employers understand that candidates have lives beyond work, so don’t worry if you have gaps in your CV. Acknowledge any gaps briefly and focus on the skills or qualifications gained during this time. For example, mention online courses, new skills, volunteering, charity work, or relevant hobbies. Relate these activities to the job you’re applying for and place them in the appropriate sections of your CV.

Where Can I Get Help with My CV?

If you’re a student or recent graduate, seek professional advice from your university careers service. Or go to interviewboss.ai/blog/perfect-your-application-with-interviewboss-s-cv-feedback-tool so you can get instant feedback on your CV!

For more info on what to do once you've landed your job interview visit: https://interviewboss.ai/blog/how-to-prepare-for-an-interview-(april-2024)

Written by Charlie Gray, Editor

InterviewBoss.ai · August 2024