A CV is usually defined as a short document summarising an individual's education, career and achievements.  This is normally prepared by a person searching for employment and given to prospective employers in relation to a specific vacancy or career role.  The CV also looks to
highlight (target) skills, qualities and other relevant information towards matching 
candidates with the job selection criteria. 

An effective CV strives to match a persons profile / history with the job selection criteria.  The role of the recruiter is to verify the integrity of the CV and that the candidate matches what the employer is looking for.  There are no specific rules on how to write an effective CV and individuals can personalise a CV if they so wish (within reason).  Whilst there are no specific rules, certain guidelines do exist and must
be followed if your CV is to create the right impression and WIN that all important job interview.

                                                                                                             

There are many CV writing principles.  Such guidelines have been developed (refined) over the years and form the basis of any effective CV.  It is highly recommended that candidates follow established methods of CV presentation, CV layout,  CV content and attention to detail.  

Winning CV defines these principles as 'CV Writing Secrets'.  Applying these guidelines can make a difference towards creating the right impression and winning an interview.  Ignoring many of these CV principles could leave your CV on the reject pile! 

Please take time to consider these points when writing your CV.  Use the following advice to create the right impression and win an interview - remember you only have a few seconds to impress!!

                                                                                                            

>>  Presentation:  Stand out from the rest = 30 seconds to impress recruiters.
>>  Pleasing to the eye:  Uncluttered with clear headings & plenty of white space.
>>  Use a friend:  Look for first impressions, readability, layout, content, mistakes, etc.

>>  Be selective:  Review the relevance of each piece of information (do not overload).
>>  Be positive:  Sell yourself by using positive language (avoid negativity at all costs).

>>  Information:  Must be presented in reverse chronological order (most recent first).
>>  Keep it simple:  Consider 'reader-friendliness' & avoid jargon.  Two pages.

>>  Sentence construction:  Short, concise & well-worded.  No waffle!
>>  Factual & Honest:  You may get caught out otherwise!

>>  Accuracy:  Dates & details must be accurate.                                                                            
>>  Spelling & Grammar:  Should be 'proofed' for errors.
>>  Other skills:  Demonstrates evidence of written communication.

                                               

           

Beat the competition! - Make sure your CV stands out from the crowd & win an interview!