Here are some basic tips about how to write a CV. I’ll go in to much more detail as we progress through this section of the site.

1. Use a font (that is the type of typeface) that is easy to read.  This font is Arial; others that are good are Courier (a bit out-dated nowadays), Helvetica and Times New Roman. Research suggests, for documents such as CV’s, these are the easiest fonts to read.

2. You don’t have to write ” Curriculum Vitae” at the top of your CV.  It’s pretty obvious what it is!  However, most people do, but…it is up to you.

3. If you have restrictions on location, this is worth including.  It can save an awful lot of wasted time.

4. If you have special terms on your notice period, a potential employer should be made aware of it.  I have had situations where offers have been made, only to find the candidate is on a three month notice period!This resulted in the withdrawal of an offer.

CV Example

5. If you are looking to make a change of direction, this should be noted, either on the CV front page, or in the covering letter.

6. Sorry about this one, it may upset some of you, but don’t mention religion on your CV, or membership of any organisations that may indicate your religious persuasion. Please don’t think I am telling you to hide things, because I’m not, but religion is an emotive subject. As we all know, officially, it is illegal to discriminate (on any grounds), but very occasionally it does go on and surprisingly religion is one area that people are very emotional about.

7. Keep your sentences short and to the point.

8. Always keep the tone of your CV straightforward.  This is not the place for quips or funny comments.

9. Keep personal statements about your point of view out of your CV.

10. Keep politics out of your CV. It is another emotive subject, the same as religion.  Again, why get rejected because the first person to pick up your CV is of a different political persuasion. (They’re all only different shades of grey nowadays anyway – a good example of the sort of statement NOT to put on your CV!)

Your CV Must Be Right

11. Always check that your CV is free from any spelling or typographical errors.  They will be seen as a major negative.  Yes, I can see you all up until three in the morning trying to find one on this site now I’ve said that! Please, please, please don’t write and tell me if you find one though.  There are nearly a hundred pages in all!  You only have to write three or four on your CV, it needs to be right.  Make sure it is!  Just in case you missed that

MAKE SURE YOUR CV IS RIGHT!

12. Ensure your CV looks good (layout, presentation etc).

13.  Make it easy to understand. Write in short words and sentences wherever possible, I know that can be difficult with highly technical stuff, but as easy to understand as possible and no ambiguities.

These basic rules will help you write your CV and esnure it is well recieved, but…there is much more detailed CV information you need to be aware of to make sure you get that coveted interview! Let’s move on…