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Resource Centre : Advice on CV Writing

PURPOSE: To convey a description of your personal and professional skills that induces the reader to want to know more

A CV should be a factual, interesting document that gives sufficient information to demonstrate that you are likely to be of value to the organisation. If it is too long, the reader may conclude that on reflection you would not be a suitable candidate. If it is too short, key points that would be important to consider you for the post are missing. Always remember the aim of a CV is to get an interview for a specific job for which you have applied.

HOW TO WRITE YOUR CV:
Good preparation is the fundamental activity required to produce an excellent CV so spend some time analysing yourself and the potential employer.

	Keep the layout of the CV simple and consistent throughout.
	Overall presentation of the CV is critical. These days more CV's are sent by e-mail than ever before, therefore you must consider how easy to read and visibly pleasing it is on the screen as well as on paper.
	As a guideline a CV should be: 1 - 3 pages if you have more than 5 years experience And 1 - 2 pages if you have less than 5 years experience (A CV should not be less than 1 page)
	Attention to detail is vital in the presentation of a CV, do not use block capitals; check spelling/grammar thoroughly, select fonts carefully, highlight/underline headings.
	Contact details must be easily visible.
	The most critical information and that most likely to get you an interview should be included on the first page.
	Always show a positive attitude throughout the CV never use negative or doubtful phrases i.e. I will achieve... as opposed to I hope to achieve...
	Make sure your strongest most positive statement is at the top of each section.
	Tailor your CV to show experiences relevant to the job, company, market and industry in which you are applying.

And so on

CV Format
To assist those who have not recently completed a CV please refer to our link which is a downloadable template in our format. If you wish you may complete and return this to your Emerald Group consultant. The document may be saved in a word document.

DO NOT:

	Lie. It will eventually come out and you may lose your job as a result of it.
	Have spelling or grammatical errors. Do not rely on the spell check. Read it through and ask somebody to do the same.
	Type your CV in capital letters.
	Use humour in your CV. It is misplaced and you may not be taken seriously.
	Leave career gaps, as they will be spotted. Explain where you were when the sabbatical occurred.