Job hunting tips
We've put together some advice and thoughts on CV writing, interviews and ways to find your ideal job.
How to write a winning CV
Today's job markets are increasingly competitive, with some vacancies attracting hundreds of applications. Making sure that your CV stands out from the pack is the first and most important step to getting your foot in the door.
Faced with a pile of CVs, recruiters have little time to read each one in depth and will tend to glance over them initially, picking out key areas such as job titles and skills to see if your experience matches that required for the position.
As a general rule, only include the most relevant information and break it down into clearly headed sections, so that even at a quick glance, a potential employer can easily see your skills, experience, and qualifications.
Keep it short
No two people and therefore no two CVs are the same. And while the aim of your CV is to market yourself in the best possible way, it shouldn't mean that you have to write an essay to do it. A good guide to length is two sides of A4, but that's not to say that if you need more space you can't go over that length, and likewise, if you can say what you need to say in less. As a general rule, shorter is better.
Nothing but the truth
However tempting it may be to pad your CV out with waffle or embellish your skills and experience - don't. It wastes employers' time and it will come back to haunt you eventually.
Be what you are - an individual
You should be prepared to customise your CV for each job that you apply for if necessary. Demonstrating from the off that you have the relevant skills and knowledge will make for a better impression before you even get to interview stage. Don't rely on your charm and personality to win through once you get to an interview; if your skills and experience don't match the job, you won't even get that far.
Stand out
Above all, your CV needs to leave a lasting impression. So make it punchy and give it a bit of your personality. After all, your CV is your sales tool, so it shouldn't read like an academic essay. Use active, not passive verbs; this will give the reader a feeling that you are confident and professional.
Checklist
In addition to making your CV stand out through positive language and concise text, you should always make sure that you provide the following general information:
- Personal details - name, address, e-mail, telephone number, date of birth
- Education - generally speaking, employers will be most interested in recent study, so list your qualifications and study in reverse chronological order, and summarise early education such as GCSEs, e.g 9 GCSEs
- Work experience - list in reverse chronological order, including relevant voluntary and vocational work
- Activities & interests - use this area of your CV to promote your best personal qualities such as commitment and dedication. Talk about any clubs that you are a member of, charity work or committee representation; this will be more impressive to a potential employer than how many times a week you go to the pub
One last check
Once you've finished, make sure you read through and check for any spelling mistakes. And if possible, get someone who conducts interviews to have a look through as well.