CV Writing Tips

Crafting a Standout CV: Essential CV Writing Tips

Want to make a great CV? You’re in the right place. These tips will help you create a resume showing your skills and experiences. Whether starting from scratch or improving an existing CV, our advice will help your document stand out in today’s competitive job market.

Understanding CVs: Essential CV Writing Tips

Your CV, short for curriculum vitae, is a personal marketing document to sell yourself to prospective employers. It should tell them about your professional history, skills, abilities and achievements. Ultimately, it should highlight why you’re the best person for the job. A CV is required when applying for a job. In addition to your CV, employers may also need a cover letter and a completed application form.

What should you include in your CV?

While the structure of a CV is flexible, it should reflect your unique skill set and experiences. However, there are specific sections that employers expect to see on your CV. Here are the essential areas to include in your CV:

• Name, professional title and contact details
• Personal Profile
• Experience and employment history
• Education and qualifications

Additional CV Writing Tips: Sections to Enhance Your CV

A range of additional sections may strengthen your CV and highlight your skills. Here are just a few you can include if you have the room:

• Key Skills
• Hobbies and interests
• References

Formatting and Spacing: Key CV Writing Tips

If you’re unsure how to format your CV, you can find various examples that are free to download online. Formatting and spacing your CV are equally important as the information you include about yourself. Here are some formatting and spacing tips to bear in mind:

• Length
• Headings
• Font type
• Font size and page margins
• Proofreading and consistency
• Tailoring, keywords and ATSs
• Saving the file

What Not to Include:

There are a variety of details that you shouldn’t include on your CV. Here are a few of the common ones:

• A headshot
• Age and date of birth
• Marital status

With these CV Writing Tips, you’re well on your way to creating a solid and effective CV that will help you secure the job of your dreams. Now that you’ve got your CV in top shape, it’s time to prepare for the next step: the interview. Head to our Interview Hints and Tips page for expert advice on acing your interview and making a confident and impressive impression.