Preparation

Spend time before you start, consider and list your skills, qualifications, strengths and relevant experience. Remember to explore every role you have undertaken, every training course attended.

If you are responding to an advertisement, take time to highlight the duties, competencies and requirements of the role sought. Keep these words and be prepared to use them in your application.

Points to consider whilst constructing a CV:

• Don't waffle, be specific about skills, duties, qualities and experience.
  
  
• Avoid useless words that only detract from the message. Don't use two words when one will do. You will weaken the intended message.
  
  
• CVs should be well presented in a logical manner. First impressions count. The recipient must want to read the CV if it looks poor it possibly won't be considered.
  
  
• Always aim to include factual information or objective evidence. Focus on the benefits of your achievements.
  
  
• Always check your spelling and grammar. Best advice is to have an independent person to read and check the content for errors.
  
  
• Avoid a gimmick of fantastic fonts, heavy boarders or coloured paper. It may be important to remember a CV will have to be copied, faxed or e-mailed. A simple, clear and well presented image enables multiple use.
  
  
• CVs should not be any longer than 2-3 pages in length. The shorter the better. Try to aim for maximum of 2 pages.
  
  
• Page 1 - should clearly indicate your name, home address and contact details. Remember to check accuracy of telephone numbers and e-mail addresses.
  
  
• You should then clearly indicate educational qualifications and credentials. Show name of educational establishments and grades obtained.
  
  
• A personal statement should follow your qualifications. This statement is your opportunity to briefly highlight your strengths, commitment, skills and experience. Remember to link it to the role you seek or the job you are applying for.
  
  
• Page 2-3 - Highlight your employment history. Present this in reverse chronological order (last job first). Remember to include the name of the company and dates involved.
  
  
• If you have only worked for one company in a variety of roles indicate each role and the duties completed for each position.
  
  
• Take time to briefly describe achievements in either financial, sales, production or efficiency terms. Employees like to hear about success and employ successful people.
  
  
• Consider bullet points for duties or achievements.
  
  
• Finally list or outline any particular hobbies or interests you enjoy. Do not lie, or invent hobbies or interests you never know what questions you may face about them at interviews.
  
  
• It is recommended that you provide at least two references. These should be professionals rather than friends. Include a person's full name, position, company and address. Include a telephone number for each.