Affinity Group Limited

Did you know that if your CV does not attract the reader's attention in the first 20-30 seconds then your chances of being short listed for interview are greatly reduced.

1. Your CV is how you are selling yourself; it needs to stand out from all the other CVs that a potential employer receives.

2. Keep it simple; your CV should be no more than one or two pages long, however if you have a PHD it is important to include additional pages detailing any publications.

3. Include your name, address, contact telephone number(s) and email address.

3. List your most recent work experience first, briefly describe your work experience; concentrate on your achievements, ensure that your most recent employer is included on your CV.

4. Be consistent, clear and concise. Keep to the same verb tense throughout your CV; don't mix too many grammatical styles.

5. List your qualifications with your most recent first, give details of your qualification, dates, establishment and grade.

6. You may wish to include interests out side of the workplace giving your potential future employer a broader picture of your personal qualities.

7. Do not leave gaps in your work history.

8. Do not lie on your CV.

9. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes.


These additional points are also good to remember when preparing and sending your CV to potential employers.

Presentation Counts

It is important you present your CV suitably. Most people use a historical layout as it is easy to write with your employment history presented in a chronological order. However, if your work experience is unstructured you may prefer to use a skills-based layout which highlights your abilities and skills.

It may be necessary to create more than one CV if you intend to apply for different types of jobs, this will allow you to emphasize your relevant skills and experiences that the employer is looking for.

Make it personal

Include a personalised covering email with every CV you send out and tailor the email to each specific post you apply for. Outline how your experience matches the job requirements, why you want the job, and concentrate on telling potential employers why you would be good for the job, rather than why the job would be good for you.