Any LBers work in HR / Recruitment who could spare a few minutes to cast an eye over my son’s CV as he has started his quest to get a “Proper Job” following a string of part time shop/pub jobs.
You can keep the same CV as you will prob be applying to similar roles… but customize the cover letter. And always include a cover letter. This is what will make people read your CV
Summarize your skills and experience and get across any key points that do not fit within the format of your CV.
Below are some basic guidelines when creating a cover letter.
Where possible address the relevant contact listed in the advertisement.
Include the job title, reference number and where and when you saw the advertisement
Keep to the point and explain why your skills and experience are relevant to the advertised role.
Clearly state why you are interested in the role / company.
Describe what you could bring to the role that sets you apart from other applicant.
Avoid lengthy repetition of information covered in your CV or in the job description.
Ensure you tailor your cover letter for each role.
Negative information of any sort should be avoided.
Keep your cover letter between 3-4 paragraphs in length.
Ensure that you spell check and then proof read your cover letter thoroughly before submission. Just one small typing error could potentially ruin your application.
Below are some basic guidelines for your CV.
Ideally your CV will be between 2-3 pages long and include the following sections:
Personal details
Education and Qualifications
Key Skills / Strengths
Employment History
Hobbies & Interests
Referees
Content Tips
Your application should reflect your unique achievements, your particular combination of skills, expertise and experience
Customise your CV for each job by focusing on previous experience or skills that are particularly relevant to the advertised role. This can include using similar terminology in your CV to what is used in the ad
If using a personal email address in the personal details section ensure that it is of a professional nature
When listing your employment history start with your most recent or current role and make sure you include employer names, positions held and primary responsibilities. Ensure you mention precise facts such as “Managed a team of 10 people” or “Increased profit for the business area by 25% between Q1, 2001 and Q4, 2001”
Do not leave unexplained gaps in your work experience history. If you have taken time out to go travelling for 6 months this should be clear on your CV
When listing your employment history make sure you provide the months as well as the years. Eg. Do not simply list 2001-2003
Employers today often make up their mind about an applicant based on the key skills / strengths area so make sure you spend time developing this section
Your CV should be an accurate reflection of your skills and experience. If you don’t have the relevant skills to do the job then don’t apply
Include contact details of at least two referees. At least one of these should be from your former employer. If you are a newly qualified graduate than you should list your lecturer as a reference
Ensure that you spell check and then proof read your CV thoroughly before submitting it to each role. Just one small typing error could potentially ruin your application
Formatting
Use a common program such as Word.
Ensure there is plenty of white space making it easier for the reader to scan the page
Use a standard font size that is easy to read on screen such as Arial 10 point.
Keep it simple. The more graphics or design elements you incorporate into your resume, the more likely it is the recipient will have trouble accessing or printing it.
Three pages is too many. If you can get it on one page, the better. Use bullet points, easy to read sentances and highlight the key elements of achievements.
Employer wants to know what you did, how you did it and what the results were. End of… too much and it doesn’t even get looked at. Damn shame because they miss out on great candidates being so fickle.
