Your CV is the first point of contact between you and your next potential employer. It is important that it is succinct and presented in an easy to read format using a simple font, minimal styling and the use of bullet points to break down information. To ensure your CV stands out in your next job application follow our recommended structure and tips below:
Start with name, address and contact details
List the main contact details prospective employers will be able to reach you on easily at anytime. Ensure the details are presented clearly and feature prominently at the top of your CV.
Tip - Include a link to your up to date LinkedIn profile within your introductory details.
Introduce yourself
This is where you should summarise and highlight what you can offer the prospective employer. Summarise any career highlights that will draw attention to what you have accomplished. It should be tailored for each role you apply for and make you stand out for this role.
Summarise your skills
Use brief bullet points to list the skills and experience you have that are specific and relevant to the role. Hiring managers will scan this section of your CV very quickly to see what you can offer and suitability for the role.
Tip - wherever possible, use the same adjectives as those used in the advertisement.
Highlight relevant experience
This section should include your work history in most recent historical order including paid work, relevant volunteer or work experience placements. It is important to tailor this section of your CV to the job, specifically where key responsibilities in previous roles are applicable for your application.
Tip - highlight how you overcame challenges both personally and as a team member.
Shout about your achievements
Your CV is your opportunity to sell yourself and highlight why you are the best fit the role, so it is important to include where you have gone above and beyond or made a significant achievement.
Where the achievements are measurable be sure to include the numbers, such as increased sales over target by 10%.
List any training, education and courses
Only list what is relevant or required for the role you are applying for, starting with most recent. It is important to showcase where you may have up skilled or could add new knowledge to the organisation.
Mention any interests/hobbies (optional)
This is where you can highlight your personality in any hobbies or interests that you may do outside of work. Note, it is optional to include this on your CV and it is best to avoid stating anything that could cause friction early on.
References are available on request
It is fine to list references are available on request if you are not comfortable disclosing your referees until further into the recruitment process. It is important to make sure you have them readily available and contactable when requested.
Final top five tips
12 things to do now to get ready for a new job
You’ve decided to make a move, so what are you waiting for? Even before you land your first interview, there are loads of things you can be doing to help you prepare for a change of jobs. Check out this job switch checklist for more. Although coming to the decision that you’re ready to change jobs i
Read MoreWhy you shouldn't accept a counter offer
You've made up your mind to move on, accepted a position elsewhere, and tendered your resignation to your boss. Then, out of nowhere, a snag in your plan: a counter offer tempting you to stay at your current company. The counter offer might lure you with more money, a promotion, or better benefits,
Read MoreAvoid online job scams
When an online job advertisement seems too good to be true, theres a great chance that it usually is. In this article you will find some handy tips as a job seeker for sussing out what’s real and what’s not. These tips involve useful security information for job seekers, where and where not to post
Read MoreAre you interested in launching your career with a world-leading specialist in professional recruitment? Gain valuable experience, expert training, and the opportunity to make a positive impact across the globe.