CV Writing Tools
Creating a CV
A CV (curriculum vitae), or in some places, a Resume, is an essential document that serves as a professional snapshot of your accomplishments, skills, and experiences. It is crucial in presenting yourself effectively to potential employers or academic institutions, acting as your personal marketing tool. A well-crafted CV not only showcases your qualifications but also highlights your suitability for a particular role or academic program. It's your chance to make a strong first impression, demonstrating your unique value proposition and setting yourself apart from other candidates. With our page on CV top tips, we aim to provide invaluable insights and strategies to help you create a standout CV that grabs attention and opens doors to exciting opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, mastering the art of CV writing is essential for advancing your career prospects.
Tips when writing a CV
DO
Be positive and sell yourself
Highlight your relevant skills, qualities and experience. Include all the relevant life skills, qualities and experiences you have, not just your paid work experience
Use evidence. For instance, in your CV Profile (first paragraph) give one or two real examples of how you have demonstrated you ‘can do’ something eg built a cupboard or tiled a bathroom – or describe how you are a member of a football team where you contribute to a great team spirit and co-operation with others in the team!
Be brief and to the point
Check spelling and grammar – then check again or ask someone else to check for you if you are not confident
Adapt/change your CV to each job – look at the Job Advert and Job Description (sometimes a Person Specification as well) for guidance as to what you need to include to really target that particular job.
DON'T
× Lie on your CV
Use more than two pages or cram it all into one
Include your date of birth, gender, orientation, marital status, religion or nationality (employers can’t ask for these or base decisions on them – although if you are offered a job they may ask for evidence of your right to work in this country)
Leave gaps in your work or school record
Have any spelling or grammar errors
Covering Letter or Introduction Email
The top tip for your cover letter is to keep it to the point; you don’t want to put the reader off with too much detail, but you do want to grab their attention.
Write in short paragraphs with the focus on key information, such as:
The job you’re applying for
The documents you’re enclosing (eg your CV and/or application form)
Why you want to do the job, and work for the organisation specifically
Why they should hire you: your skills and experience and what might separate you from other applicants
Any achievements you are particularly proud of that demonstrate relevant or desirable skills and attributes
When you can start
Covering letter.pdfCV Handout.pdfCV Template Blank.docx