CV Writing

The objective of your CV is to secure an interview, however, when a CV is first received it is usually one of a huge number that will be cut down to a few to consider for an interview. This process is increasingly undertaken by automated software known as Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). If you don’t understand this process and how to match your CV to the job then your CV won’t even get to be seen by human eyes. (This probably explains why your applications appear to be ignored). If you get past the ATS the next task of your CV is to wow the recruiter so that they are keen to discover more about you and whether you are a good match for the job. CVs don’t get jobs; people do, but if your CV doesn’t do the job your prospects of securing employment are bleak. 

The best starting point for every job seeker is a master CV, a comprehensive history of your career, your accomplishments, education, and Continued Professional Development. This is usually a reverse chronology of your employment history using the STAR acronym (Situation Task Action Result), with information that you can Qualify and Quantify and can be used to Validate and Verify your CV content. 

When drafting your CV ensure you: 

• Focus on accomplishments, skills, and results 
• Never include statements or accomplishments that cannot be substantiated 
• Keep sentences short and punchy 
• Your CV should be attractive and easy to read: good spacing, margins, and bold printing. Avoid overcrowding
• Do not use abbreviations when there could be a doubt as to meaning. Be clear and precise 
• Keep it short. A good CV will be as short as possible, no longer than two pages, a third page detailing Education and CPD is acceptable 
• Use “Action Words” to describe each accomplishment 
• Whenever possible, show results in numbers 
• Avoid exaggerations and flowery terms
• Show month and year for starting and end dates 
• If you were promoted within the same company show the dates beside the job title 
• Don’t include inconsequential data 

“I couldn’t understand why I wasn’t getting interviews, the CV workshop helped me understand and make sure my CV was ready… I immediately started to get interviews. ”

Kay Lock former Careers-Action member.