Michelle’s CV Advice

Get tips and advice on creating your CV

How many pages?

Try to keep your CV to a maximum of 2 pages. Make use of an effective structure/layout to display all the information well, keeping this within 2 sides of A4. If you are using printed copies ensure these are printed double sided. This ensures that single additional pages will not get lost. When handing your CV to a potential employer you are only handing over one sheet of paper.

Personal profile and statement

Start with your CV with an opening statement. This should explain the industry or job you are applying for. Use this opportunity to identify why you are an excellent potential employee, discuss experience and skills relevant to the role you are applying for. This section should be adapted to ensure it always matches the industry/role you are applying for. Keep this short making it a small introduction, a short paragraph will be enough.

Personal information and contact details

Don’t forget to add your personal details. Make sure your name stands out as this is your CV. Add any details that you feel are relevant such as:

Full UK Driving Licence
Willing to relocate
Willing to complete a trial period
Social Media Accounts (if relevant to the position)

Ensure that all contact details are on your CV; address, email and telephone number.

Include all relevant information

Ensure you include your employment history showing your most recent position first. Include dates and a short summary of the position held. List qualifications including dates these were achieved. If you are concerned about a lack of information/ qualifications you can list skills that you have. A skill can be any attribute that you have, that is desirable for the role. This could include:

Good organisational skills
Excellent communication skills
Adaptable

Explain employment gaps

Don’t worry if you have an employment gap. Its normal and explaining any gaps within your CV will show honesty and transparency.

Profile picture

Should your CV have a profile picture?

This is purely down to personal preference. It can help employers remember you if they have met you at a Jobs Fair. If you do have a picture, please ensure this is a professional headshot.

References

If you have references it is a good idea to put their name and contact details on your CV. This shows your potential employer you are happy for them to follow up your application with a reference and can speed up the process. If this is something you need to authorise first you can state:

References available upon request.

This will allow you time to request the details of your references.

Digital or Paper CV?

As everything is becoming more digital it is a good idea to have both digital paper copies of your CV available. This allows you to offer potential employers to select their preference on how to receive your CV. Not everyone is in favour of technology and some people still prefer to read this on paper. This demonstrates you have considered the employers preference and prepared for either option. Making use of something like a QR code for your CV displays a good level of initiative and knowledge.

Spelling & Grammar

Please ensure you proof read your CV for errors. It is always a good idea to ask someone else to proof read for you to help you spot errors. Simple typos can give the impression you have not took the time and effort required to sell yourself professionally within your CV to potential employers.