A CV is your chance to grab an employer’s attention and get an interview. It tells the story of what you’ve done so far and where your skills and strengths lie.
When writing or updating your CV you should always aim to draw attention to the skills and experience that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. For example, if you don’t have much work experience yet, choose a CV layout that places an emphasis on your skills and education. Remember that you can add your work experience from school, and from any placements at college, as part of your work experience on your CV.
If you don’t have a CV yet we recommend that you take a look at My World of Work’s CV Builder. Click here to visit their site.
You can also click here to download a sample CV, and general CV tips, from our Jumpshare account.
General Tips
- The most important information for the employer should be on the first page: skills; work experience and education. All information here should be relevant and recent.
- Do not include a photograph, National Insurance number, passport number, marital status or nationality. You are not required to include your date of birth. Do not use a font size of less than 10 points.
- Always focus your CV on the kind of work you are aiming for.
- Keep it short and sweet. The most effective CVs are informative and concise. Your CV should be no more than two sides of A4.
- Do not use coloured paper or a coloured font.
- Check for typos.
- Treat voluntary work as if it were paid employment.
- Use bullet points. They’re a great way to draw attention to any key facts or relevant information.
If you already have a CV and would like to speak to our Careers Advisers about updating or improving your CV, please ask for an appointment at your Student Services office.