CV Advice:
A CV is often the first opportunity for a
potential employer to
assess how you present yourself. A poorly written CV, no matter how
relevant the content, will probably create a negative impression.
Seeing the recruitment process from both client and applicant
perspective, TGR has some suggestions to help you make that
all-important first impression a positive one.
- One page is too short, four generally too long – two or three pages are fine
- All contact details, summary of education and qualifications, including BSc grade and language fluency should go on the first page, followed by your current or last job. You should always list employers in reverse chronological order.
- Describe each employer briefly. Most people have heard of Microsoft, but many companies or the relevant division you worked for require some explanation / introduction.
- Give a brief description of what you do/are, or were responsible for - and highlight with some key achievements /responsibilities (number of staff, value of sales, reduction in costs, length of projects etc.).
- If you have any peculiar or company specific job titles that mean nothing to the outside world, give a generic description of what you did.
- Future employers do not need as much detail about what you did 5 years ago, still ten years ago, a single line may suffice.
- Do not include too many hobbies or interests, it looks like you are never at work!
- Before submitting your CV check it thoroughly for errors, not just for spelling and grammar, but also to make sure it is a clear representation of you.