There are hundreds of websites and advice sites on CV's and it is easy to get confused and bogged down about the best format to use and whether to include the paper round you did when you were 14!

These Hints and tips should help:

  • It should be no more than 2 sides and preferably 1 side, if you can fit everything in
  • Keep it simple-don't experiment with unusual fonts or layouts
  • Personal profile This section is very important, as it is where you make yourself stand out to an employer.
    • Take lots of time with this section and adapt it for the job you are applying for
    • Your profile can be used to promote yourself, whilst summarising the qualities and current position/profession you want to bring to the employers attention. 
    • It can also be used to say what you are currently looking to do
  • Skills and abilities,
    • Bullet point them to make them stand out
    • This section should focus on what you can do, geared towards the job you are applying for
  • Employment/Experience  
    • How much  past employment experience to include really depends on your situation. If you have done lots of relevant work for the job you are applying for, you probably don't need to include short-term non-related jobs from a long time ago. 
    • However, if you do not have much work history, you will need to put everything down and use what you have done to bring out your skills and abilities.
    • Don't worry if you have not done much formal paid work. It is ok to use voluntary work, work experience and informal work , such as babysitting and helping relatives out. Make sure you make it clear what skills, abilities and knowledge you gained from this and link this in to the job you are applying for if you can, or demonstrate more general skills such as communication or time-keeping.
  • Qualifications
    • If you have lots of relevant qualifications for the job you are applying for, you probably don't need to include every GCSE you took and the grades you got.
    • If you don't have many qualifications you need to include everything you have , including certificates for courses such as first aid and any other short term qualifications, such as computer courses or pre-employment programmes.
  • Interests/hobbies
    • You don't have to put this section in, especially if you have lots of relevant experience.
    • Emphasise any hobbies or interests that are relevant to the job
    • Make sure you include clubs where you have positions of responsibility or sporting achievements
    • Giving a flavour of your interests can help you seem like a well rounded person
    • Dont put in things like 'socialising with friends' or 'playing computer games' (unless of course you are applying for a job as a computer games designer!)
  • Have a look at lots of CV examples on the internet. Try www.dayjob.com . 
  • There is no right or wrong with CV's. It is finding a style, layout and format that suits you
  • If you are really unsure think about getting professional help. Dart careers offers this as a service, as do many other people.