Getting the most from your CV

When looking for a new position, your CV is a sales
document. It enables you to sell yourself to a
prospective employer and present how your past
experience makes you a good candidate for the
position available.

CV guidelines

• It should be 2/3 pages in length, accompanied by
  a covering letter highlighting your key achievements.

You should include -

• Your full name
• A brief profile outlining your key experience and achievements
• Your contact details (full address, telephone numbers, email address)
• Education/professional qualifications
• Academic success
• Technical expertise/summary
• Work experience – a chronological list of companies starting with the most recent - be sure to include any notable projects
• Your interests

Do not include -

• Salary or salary expectations
• Reasons for leaving
• References – these can be provided at a later stage as the application progresses

Presentation is key

You have a few seconds to grab the attention of a prospective employer. Make it count.

Click below for a CV template to help you get started.

CV template

Preparing for interview

1) Remember to cover the following points.

2) Company Background

Do your homework. Use the internet to look at company websites; read their news pages for any recent success stories which may be worth bringing up in discussion. And if time allows, call the company and request a brochure and annual report.

3) Interviewers

Find out who you will be meeting and what their position is within the company.

4) Location

Be clear about where the interview is taking place. If time allows, do a trial run to the office to avoid any panic on the day of the interview.

5) Be punctual

Allow plenty of time, but arrive no more than 10 minutes early for an interview.

5) Dress appropriately

Make sure you prepare what you’re going to wear in advance, and that it is appropriate for the type of environment in which you would be working.

6) CV

Make sure you are aware of what is on your CV so you can answer any questions on it. It is a good idea to have a copy of it with you at the interview.

7) The first impression

Greet your interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake (but don’t be over familiar).

8) Interview tips

• Why do you want this job?
• Why do you want to work for us?
• What do you know about our company?
• Why did you choose your profession?
• What are your strengths/weaknesses?
• What do you enjoy/dislike about your current role?
• What has been your greatest achievement to date?
• Why are you looking for a new position?
• How would you describe yourself?
• How would your friends/colleagues describe you?
• What are your aspirations?
• What can you offer to your new team/company?

Don’t talk too much, but do respond positively to all questions asked.

Think about questions you would like to ask beforehand -

• What are the company’s plans for the future?
• What opportunity is there for career development?
• What training will I receive?
• How would you describe the culture of the company?

Ask for feedback at the end of the interview and thank the interviewer for their time.