Hints and Tips on CV Writing

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Frequently asked questions on CV preparation – the recruiter’s views

There is no magic formula to writing your CV, most of it is common-sense. It is important to put yourself in the place of the recipient who may have 20 CV’s to read at one sitting. In these circumstances, length, presentation and detail are all important. We cover below some of the questions we are most frequently asked.

How long should my CV be?

To a certain extent this will depend upon how long you have been working but, as a rule of thumb 2 pages minimum and 3 pages maximum. Use more descriptive text to cover your most recent career history – e.g. the last 5 years, less on your earlier career. Most employers spend no more than 30 seconds on an initial CV read through, anything longer that 3 pages is unlikely to be read thoroughly, if at all.

Should I include graphics, photographs etc?

Undoubtedly the use of graphics etc. livens up a CV and makes it more prominent. However bear in mind that these may increase the size of the document and make it difficult to download, if sent via e-mail. Probably better therefore to remove graphics when e-mailing your CV.

How technical should I make my CV?

If you are applying for a job that requires technical ability, then listing your technical skills and knowledge is important. Be careful not to use company jargon or too many abbreviations or acronyms. They may be clear to you, but will be annoying to the recruiter who does not recognise them. It is often worth preparing a ‘skills list’ to accompany your CV, but within the maximum length of 3 pages.

What headings should I use?

Keep it simple try – personal details, employment history, education and qualifications, training and a personal profile to start with. This is a short outline (absolute maximum of 40 words) of your background, not in terms of personal characteristics but concrete achievements, experience and preferences.

Should I include my salary and benefits?

This is often the most critical piece of information, yet it is usually missing. The result can be dramatic in that rather than chase the applicant for the information, the CV finds its way to the ‘reject’ pile. The answer is to include your salary/benefits but in a covering letter.

What information is often missing from CV’s?

Apart from salary, information that is often missing includes:- the business activities of employing companies. This can be critical in assessing your possible suitability to other employers. If making a general registration with a recruitment consultancy, it is important to indicate how far you are prepared to travel to work or whether you would be prepared to relocate. If you drive and own a car make sure you include this on your CV. The amount of notice you may have to give can be included in your covering letter.

Should I apply by e-mail, fax or post?

If you have the option, e-mail is preferable. It is quicker, enables the recruiter to respond easily and is cheaper. If you are really keen to impress with an elaborate CV, the only real option is to use the mail. Fax is a useful half-way house, but make sure you have a distinct and clear copy of your CV to start with.

What is the most irritating fault in CV writing?

CV’s written in the 3rd person. Remember, it is yourself you are marketing, not an impersonal third party. CV’s written in this style create an air of formality and stuffiness.

What else should I avoid?

Misspelling and poor punctuation are common faults and should be avoided. Use a spell-checker and get someone else to read through your CV to check for correct punctuation.