Candidate Long 2

CV Tips

Your CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a fantastic means to demonstrate your academic achievements and professional history. It is your first opportunity to show a prospective employer that you have the required skills and experience for the job. It is therefore vital that your CV highlights your abilities and accomplishments. 

Even in our digitally driven world, your CV remains an essential tool in your job search. If it does not clearly communicate that you are a suitable candidate, your application may not progress any further. At Language Recruitment Services, we believe a well written and presented CV can be a passport to an interview! 

This is an introduction to how to create a CV. Visit the following pages to read CV advice in more depth

Whilst there are differing opinions on optimum CV presentation, most recruitment professionals agree on these common principles and guidelines when it comes to content and layout:



Objectives

The objective of your CV is to convince a prospective employer that you are a suitable candidate. To be considered for an interview, your CV must follow these basic ideals:

          •Highlight suitable or relevant skills, experience and achievements.

          •Have a clear layout and logical structure.

          •Be informative but concise. 

          •Provide honest information only – avoid inaccurate details. 

Presentation

          •Typed, preferably in Microsoft Word format. 

          •Use a clear font (such as Arial or Times New Roman) in a readable size: 10 or 11 point.

          •Use appropriate headings, section breaks and spaces.

          •Avoid large empty spaces or cramped sections of text.

          •Use bold, underline or larger font sizes for headings.

          •Use bullet points where possible to break up the text.

          •Ensure sentences are concise.

          •Avoid paragraphs where possible (when used, keep them short and sweet!)

Interestingly, it has been suggested that recruiters/selectors tend to pay most attention to the upper-middle part of the first page. Take advantage of our insider intelligence and ensure this area contains essential information!

Length

Although there are no definitive rules, it is advised that your CV cover a maximum of 2-3 A4 pages. Key skills and experience need to stand out, as prospective employers will likely only spend a few minutes scanning the document.