A CV is not an autobiography that should run into pages. It has to be short; it has to state facts; and be to the point. A CV should be an indicator of the job seeker’s best achievements and should leave something to be discussed during the actual interview. It has to be like a starter that teases the appetite. Therefore, your CV should be short and interesting, so that the employer gets excited about wanting to call you for a follow-up interview. Therefore, key facts should be included, but do go into the details of your achievements. It is also important to choose only the most important and relevant details and achievements, and place them in the CV.

Now, while applying for a job it is necessary to put yourself in the best possible spotlight. But one can also make the mi

stake of going overboard in self-projection and that can be a huge turn off, as it can come across as arrogant. Being positive, realistic and confident is the best possible balance to achieve while creating a CV.

3. Honesty

Today, most organisations conduct a background check on prospective employees. The world truly is a small place when it comes to job interviews! Therefore, it is important to be honest about all details placed in the CV – last salary, academic qualifications, achievements in the last job and so on. Every detail simply has to be factual, and something you can back up with proof.

4. Spelling and Grammar

Unbelievably, even while seeking a job, plenty job seekers make some obvious and therefore glaring spelling errors. HR experts state that this only makes the job seeker come across as sloppy and careless – which are an absolute no-no when it comes to applying for a job. Take for instance, a covering letter that started with “Dear Sir/Madman” and ends with “Your’s sincerely.” Incidentally, it is also advisable to address the letter to the right person by the name and using the right form of address. Furthermore, avoid using the much-used and generic ‘Dear Sir/Madam.’

5. Structure and Simplicity

Paying attention to the structure of a CV is also essential. For instance, it can either be a chronological CV or one that is based on the job seeker’s skill sets. The former lists the person’s career history according to time, either starting with the most recent or ending with the same. Even though it seems like a small thing, it is also important to pay attention to the font that you are using and the “layout” of the document as well. The font and layout must be easy to read and pleasing to the eye.

Follow these tips and you have the start to a very solid CV.

If you have any questions please leave a comment and we will be happy to help.

Best of luck! Jobsgopublic