Writing your CV
A CV is a record of your education, work experience and skills and abilities. It is your opportunity to tell employers what you are good at and why you would be suitable for a particular job or apprenticeship.
What is a CV and why do I need one?
- A CV is a record of your education, work experience and skills and abilities. It is your opportunity to tell employers what you are good at and why you would be suitable for a particular job or apprenticeship.
- Some employers prefer applicants to send a CV rather than fill in an application form.
- A CV gives you the opportunity to decide how you want to present your information and is your chance to make a good first impression.
- Your CV is one of the most important documents to help with your job search.
- It is designed to get you to the interview short-list.
- Take the time and effort to ensure your CV stands out.
What Your CV Should Contain
Personal Details
Your name, address and contact details. Enlarge or Bolden your name to make it stand out. Don’t include your marital status, family details, date of birth or a photo unless specifically asked for.
Personal Profile
A short summary of the sort of person you are. Include the main skills and experience you can offer and what you would like to do next.
Key Skills and Achievements
Use this section to highlight the most important skills that you have (you can target these to a particular job). You can also identify any key achievements that you have had in your life.
Employment History
Give details of the jobs you have had, starting with the most recent one first. For each job give the employer name, job title and dates. Give as much detail as possible of the things you did in that job, the skills you used, include any key achievements and illustrate where possible. Focus on the your most recent experience, giving details of your two most recent roles, then summarise or briefly list your remaining experience (unless there is something you really wish to highlight for the role). You need to consider the type of jobs you are aiming for.
Education and Qualifications
What secondary school/ college did you attend? When did you attend? Give details of the qualifications you got from school, college or university (showing the most recent first). You can also give details of any training courses that you have done.
The iPort Academy offers a free CV writing and updating service if you would like some support to aid with your applications.