10 tips for a great CV
Employers may be reviewing a lot of CVs, so you’ll need to grab their attention in no more than 2-3 pages. Learn how to stand out from the crowd with our 10 tips.
1. Make your CV reflect the job description.
If it asked for five main qualities, make sure they’re on the first page.
2. Put your name on each page of the CV.
Pages can get detached, plus it’s easier for the employer.
3. Reflect the words used in the job description and job advertisement.
If they talk about "human resources" don’t refer to your time in "personnel".
4. Put down your highest level of appropriate qualification.
Unless you are just starting your career, you don’t need to put down your school.
5. Highlight achievements relevant to the position.
You could say: "I was a member of the top billing sales team in the country.”
6. Consider writing a "personal profile" or summary of yourself.
For example: "A degree-qualified researcher specialising in European and legal matters."
7. Don't leave out useful skills.
The fact that you can speak French, or have a full driver’s licence, are worth putting down.
8. Tailor each CV to the job you are applying for.
For example, if you apply for the same role in a large firm and with a niche player you will want to highlight your experience working for large businesses or demonstrate how you work in small teams.
9. If you have gaps in your employment show your job history in years rather than months.
But if it’s a large period of time when you did something else, like had a child or travelled overseas, you can stress the positive outcomes of these experiences.
10. Make everything positive on your CV.
This includes learning from negative experiences. Your CV should convey a sense of vitality and confidence.
For more CV tips, visit the Careers New Zealand website.