How to Write a Great CV

Most of us know that a CV is probably your best chance to grabbing a potential employer’s attention and since there is so often so much competition for the same position, writing a great CV may be the best way to ahead of this competition. A CV is often a summary of your education, qualifications, previous employment that is typically sent to potential employers along with a job application.

Based on that description, writing a great CV seems like a simple, straightforward process, yet so many of us struggle with this seemingly simple task. In most cases your CV just needs a few simple tweaks to become truly great and most of all impress your future employer. The first rule to remember whether this is your first job application or your 40th, the document still needs to summarize all your achievements, skills and experiences.

When Do You Need a CV?

While we typically think of writing a CV when we’re applying for a new position, there are other scenarios when you may need a CV. These in include;

• You may need a CV for an internal promotion, when the HR management wants to ensure you have the necessary experience and qualification for the higher position you seek.
• You may also need a CV when you are working with external stakeholders such as clients or 3rd parties. Typically, the CV is needed to demonstrate you have the necessary skills to offer the services they need.
• If you run your own business, you may need a CV to present to insurers or investors.
• If you are a freelancer or private contractor, you may need a CV every time you pitch for new work to show the potential client your value and expertise.

What Should Be Included in Your CV

The difference between a good CV and a great CV is a very crucial one; with a great CV you stand a better chance at being part of your potential employer’s “yes pile” or even getting a callback. That said a great CV will include the following 5 headings, under which you should include as much information as possible. It’s important to note that if you feel you can’t put together your own, professional CV, you can always seek the help of CV writing professionals.

1. Personal Profile

This section should include a synopsis of your qualifications, achievements, core strengths, passions and ambitions. The key to making writing this section less intimidating is to write it as is you were telling your teacher or parents about your professional career. Be sure to include everything that constitutes your professional qualifications even if it doesn’t seem important.

2. Skills & Tools

In the section, write in bullet-point format what you are good at doing, but make sure you only write what is relevant to the job you are applying for. Also include the tools you use when doing your job.

3. Professional Experience

In this section, list in chronological order all the work you have done in your lifetime, identifying the employer, the dates you were employed and the job titles you held at each employment position. It is important to include the most recent first since your most recent employment will likely be better suited to the position you want than your first job.

4. Education, Training and Qualifications

This section should also be written in chronological format, with the recent qualifications, training and education. Write the qualifications in bold for emphasis, but not where you went to school.

5. Interest and Hobbies

This is the section on your CV that highlights who you are a person and how your personality affects the career decisions you make. It is important since employers are typically looking to hire individuals who will get along with other individuals in the company.