Applications and Interviews

CVs

Your CV story - latest thinking on CV writing in The Guardian

Read this article from the Guardian to find out some of the latest ideas on writing CVs

Writing a CV

There is no definitive agreement on how to set out a Curriculum Vitae (CV) however it should be:

  • targeted to the employer's needs - identify the skills required and demonstrate that you have them!
  • concise and easy to read
  • well presented and word processed
  • correctly spelt throughout and well written (no slang or text speak)
  • persuasive and positive - consider the language you use to describe both yourself and your skills

Dynamic Descriptions

Creative

Effective

Self motivated

Versatile

Resourceful

Responsible

Efficient

Enthusiastic

Managed

Negotiated

Presented

Evaluate

Supervised

Established

Marketed

Active

implemented

 

Although you may wish to tailor your CV to the type of organisation and position applied for, it should contain brief factual information summarising:

Personal Data

Full name, address, tel number, *email address, *website (*if appropriate), nationality. You do not need to include your date of birth.

Personal Summary

You can include a statement (profile) about yourself at the top of the CV summarising your degree, career intentions and possible reference to skills experience directly related to the job you are applying for.

Education

A good speculative/marketing CV will prioritise this, with most recent qualifications first. Emphasise subjects or modules with direct relevance to the job application.

Work Experience

You can include any voluntary, part time and placement experience here as well as previous employment. Again you should consider prioritising and emphasising the most relevant information first.

Skills

Include skills, attributes, IT and keyboard skills (knowledge of software packages) languages, other key skills such as communication, teamwork, organisation, problem solving. It is a good idea to include evidence and examples of these skills rather than just listing them.

Positions of Responsibility

Indicate your levels of achievement, positions of responsibility and involvement. Do not list interests, rather describe and illustrate them.

Additional Information

This section is optional; it may include information such as full clean driving licence.

Referees

You would normally include two. One should be an academic person who can comment on your education; the other should preferably be an employer or placement host.

Other Resources

For more information look at Prospects where you can find sample CVs and more information on CV content.

There are also a number of books on writing CVs available for you to look at in Bath Spa Careers.

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