Your CV (Curriculum Vitae) is your personal marketing tool that showcases your skills, qualifications, and experiences to potential employers. To make the best impression and increase your chances of landing your desired job, it’s crucial to craft a CV that highlights why you are the perfect candidate. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about writing a standout CV.

What is a CV?

A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a Latin term that translates to “course of life.” It’s a comprehensive summary of your education, work experience, skills, and qualifications. While CV is the standard term in the UK, in the USA and Canada, it is often referred to as a résumé, which means “summary” in French.

How Long Should a CV Be?

A well-crafted CV should typically span two sides of A4 paper, especially for most industries in the UK. If you are applying for an academic or research-based role, your CV may be longer, depending on your experience and publications.

What Should Be Included in Your CV?

Your CV should provide all the essential information that an employer needs to assess your qualifications. Here’s what you should include:

• Contact Details: Full name, address, mobile number, and email address.

• Education: List your academic qualifications, starting with the most recent. Include any professional certifications or qualifications.

• References: Include two references from previous employers or professional contacts who can vouch for your work ethic and abilities.

• Skills: Highlight both soft and hard skills—teamwork, leadership, IT proficiency, customer service, and more.

• Work Experience: Include internships, voluntary roles, and paid positions. Focus on your most recent and relevant positions and provide examples of specific tasks you performed.

What Should You Leave Out of Your CV?

To keep your CV professional and concise, avoid including:

• The term ‘Curriculum Vitae’ or ‘Résumé’ – simply use “CV.”

• A photo – unless you’re applying for a job in acting or modelling.

• Date of birth or place of birth – it’s unnecessary and can lead to potential privacy concerns.

• Home Address – avoid adding this, especially if you’re posting your CV online, to protect your privacy.

Should You Add a Personal Profile?

While it’s not mandatory, including a personal profile at the beginning of your CV can help you stand out. This brief statement (around 200 words) should showcase your key strengths, achievements, and career goals, while focusing on the role you’re applying for.

A personal profile can also be called a career summary, career aim, or simply a profile.

Work Experience or Education: Which Comes First?

If you’re a recent graduate with limited work experience, it’s best to list your education first. However, if you have substantial relevant work experience, it should take priority over your educational background.

Should You Include Hobbies?

Including hobbies is optional. Only mention hobbies that are relevant to the job you’re applying for, like volunteering or learning a new language. Avoid generic interests such as “reading” or “listening to music,” unless they add value to your application.

How to Write a Great CV

To ensure your CV makes a lasting impression, focus on these four key areas:

1. Grammar

Ensure your CV is free from any grammatical errors. Use active verbs like “created,” “managed,” or “implemented” to demonstrate initiative. Spell-check your document and ask a friend or colleague to review it.

2. Layout

Place your most important qualifications or skills near the top of your CV. List your highest grades or qualifications first to grab the recruiter’s attention.

3. Presentation

Keep your CV clean and well-organized. Use bullet points for easy reading. For fonts, stick with 10-point Verdana or Lucida Sans for clarity. Avoid using fonts like Comic Sans.

4. Style

Consider the type of CV style that suits your experience and the job you’re applying for. Different industries may favor specific formats (e.g., chronological vs. functional). Templates are available online to guide you.

The Consequences of Lying on Your CV

Never lie or exaggerate on your CV. Falsifying information, like altering your degree classification, can result in serious legal consequences—including a potential prison sentence for degree fraud. Always be honest and transparent.

How to Explain Gaps in Your CV

If there’s a gap in your employment history, be upfront about it. Use your cover letter to explain any periods of unemployment or career breaks, and offer context to help prevent any misunderstandings.

Do You Need a Cover Letter?

Yes, you should always include a cover letter unless the employer specifically states otherwise. A cover letter allows you to personalize your application, highlight key aspects of your CV, and explain anything that may require clarification (like career gaps or special accommodations).

Get Professional Help with Your CV

If you’re a student or recent graduate, many universities offer career services that can assist with CV writing. They can provide guidance tailored to your field, helping you craft a standout CV.

Looking for More CV Tips? Stay tuned for our next guide, where we will explore the different types of CVs and help you choose the right one for your career path.