Perfect Placements CV article

CV and cover letter advice

Ten Things to Check Before You Submit Your CV

Some people know how to write a CV because they are exceptionally well written and will almost certainly get a second look from a prospective employer.

However, competition for roles can be fierce, so those who don’t know how to write a CV that genuinely sells their skills and experience may find their application discarded at the first hurdle. You can do a few simple things to ensure your CV will survive the first round.

These are our top 10 tips for creating an effective CV:

01 Keep it brief, no more than two pages.

02 Avoid superfluous personal detail such as age, religion, and sex.

03 Don’t write in the first person – start sentences with verbs.

04 List your career history in reverse, chronological order, explaining any gaps.

05 Bullet achievements and responsibilities, more detail on recent roles.

06 List educational institutions and qualifications in reverse chronological order.

07 Include computer skills, language skills, and any relevant training.

08 Keep your hobbies and interests section short.

09 Referees can be provided on request.

10 Check for typos and ask a friend to read them through.

A meticulously crafted CV can, on occasion, secure a job and improve your chances of reaching the interview stage.