Creating a CV for a job application is probably one of the most essential parts of your job hunt. A well-crafted CV showcases your qualifications, skills, and experiences and makes you a compelling candidate for potential employers.
1. Understand the purpose of a CV
A CV is your opportunity to showcase and sell your professional and academic history. The goal is to present your achievements, skills, and experiences in a structured manner that appeals to hiring managers.
2. Start with Personal Information
Begin your CV with your personal details at the top:
Full name
Professional title (if applicable)
Contact information (phone number and email address)
LinkedIn profile or professional website (optional)
3. Craft a Professional Summary or Objective
Write a concise professional summary or objective statement at the beginning of your CV:
Professional Summary: A brief overview of your career achievements and skills. Best for those with experience in their field.
Objective Statement: A short statement about your career goals. Suitable for recent graduates or those changing careers.
4. Detail Your Work Experience
List your work experience in reverse chronological order. For each position, include:
Job title
Company name
Location
Dates of employment (month and year)
Bullet points highlighting your responsibilities and achievements
5. Highlight Your Education
Include your educational background in reverse chronological order. For each institution, provide:
Degree obtained
Major or field of study
University name
Graduation date
Relevant coursework, honours, or activities (if applicable).
6. Emphasise Your Skills
Create a section dedicated to your skills. Include both hard and soft skills relevant to the job you’re applying for. You can also categorise them to make them easier to read.
7. Include Additional Sections
Depending on your background and the job requirements, you may want to include additional sections such as:
Certifications: Relevant certifications or licenses.
Publications: Research papers, articles, or books you’ve authored.
Professional Memberships: Memberships in professional organisations.
Languages: Any foreign languages you speak and your proficiency level.