Writing Your CV
The purpose of your CV is to get an INTERVIEW! This is why it is essential to spend some time, plan and get it right. The covering letter is usually read first. Then if the reader is impressed he/she will quickly scan the first one or two pages of your CV, but only TO AFFIRM A DECISION ALREADY MADE.
5 Second Rule - Your CV has only 5 seconds to get the attention of a prospective employer. Yes, it can be done that quickly. First impressions last, so make sure yours looks good.
1. The Covering Letter - The covering letter needs to do 3 things:
The reader expects the covering letter to convey upfront that you can do the job that you applied for. An affirmative impression will lead on to reading the CV expecting to see examples of your claims.
The CV
This is the most commonly used CV format and with a covering letter, it is used for most positions. The general layout is usually:
General "Rules":
5 Second Rule - Your CV has only 5 seconds to get the attention of a prospective employer. Yes, it can be done that quickly. First impressions last, so make sure yours looks good.
1. The Covering Letter - The covering letter needs to do 3 things:
- Introduce you
- Specifically address the position criteria
- Make the reader want to continue to your CV and find out more
The reader expects the covering letter to convey upfront that you can do the job that you applied for. An affirmative impression will lead on to reading the CV expecting to see examples of your claims.
The CV
This is the most commonly used CV format and with a covering letter, it is used for most positions. The general layout is usually:
- Personal Details - name, contact phone numbers and email address
- Personal Statement
- Key Skills
- Education or tickets / licences - Only put tertiary qualifications or external courses, if none leave this area out completely.
- Employment History - Start with the most recent
- Technical/Computer/Software skills - Be specific with programs you are competent in
- Volunteer Work - Start with the most recent
- Referees
General "Rules":
- Include the start MM/YY and end dates MM/YY for each position
- The title of your position
- Duties & Responsibilities in bullet point format
- Key achievement statement with each position
- Don't be fancy, less is more
- Use a clear font type and standard size, with standard margins
- Remove that photo
- Keep it relevant to the position you are applying for
- Check your spelling!
Adcam Recruiting, Ltd. ~ 21 Quay St., PO Box 134, Whakatane 3158 ~ 07.308.5030 ~ [email protected]
