When should a CV be used?

• When an employer asks for applications to be received in this format.
• When an employer simply states “apply to …” without specifying the format.
• When making speculative applications (when writing to an employer who has not advertised a vacancy but who you hope may have one).

There is no single “correct” way to write and present a successful CV but the following general rules apply:

• It is targeted on the specific job or career area for which you are applying and brings out the relevant skills you have to offer
• It is carefully and clearly laid out: logically ordered, easy to read and not cramped
• It is informative but concise
• It is accurate in content, spelling and grammar. If you mention attention to detail as a skill, make sure your spelling and grammar is perfect!

If your CV is written backwards on pink polka dot paper and it gets you regular interviews, it’s a successful CV! The bottom line is that if it’s producing results don’t change it too much but if it’s not, keep changing it until it does.

If it’s not working, ask people to look at it and suggest changes. Having said this, if you use the example CVs in these pages as a starting point, you are unlikely to go far wrong.

What mistakes do candidates make on their CV?

One survey of employers found the following mistakes were most common ◾Spelling and grammar 56% of employers found this

• Not tailored to the job 21%
• Length not right & poor work history 16%
• Poor format and no use of bullets 11%
• No accomplishments 9%
• Contact & email problems 8%
• Objective/profile was too vague 5%
• Lying 2%
• Having a photo 1%