FAQ: What should I put on my CV?
Writing a CV can be a difficult job because there is so much to think about: How much detail should it contain? How long should it be? How should it be laid out? What information should it contain?
Additional problems can include an agency or client wanting a certain number of pages, or your skill set being so varied you need a different CV for each job type you apply for. You cannot prepare for every eventuality but the following 10 tips should help you to create a solid template which will make your CV a dream to read for any hiring manager.
1. Don't waffle, what were your responsibilities, don’t worry about company descriptions. Recruiters can Google your company if they want background information. Your CV is about you – get to the point
2. Don't be scared to talk technical, the recruiter may not understand it but they generally just search for keywords, make sure they can see them
3. Try and write your keywords and job titles in every way they could possibly be written. For example Network Architect, Network Designer and Network Consultant.
4. Write in the first person narrative – avoid using your own name .e.g. write 'I worked with Company X for 6 years...' as opposed to 'Joe Bloggs worked with Company X for 6 years...'
5. Structure your CV clearly i.e. Job Title, Company, Location & Description, and present them in reverse chronological order
6. Remember to put your contact details on the CV, preferably at the top
7. Address any gaps in employment
8. Avoid overcomplicated templates and tables. Keep the layout simple.
9. Don't try and be funny, and avoid using quotes such as 'Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting the same result'.
10. Finally, make sure you spell check!