Creating a Resume

People tend not to like writing about themselves. Some feel a bit odd at having to 'boast' about themselves in black and white, while others go the other way and are tempted to oversell themselves, running the risk of getting caught out at a future date. Why not use the following simple tips as a guide?

Presentation

• Use good quality white paper with a plain type face – forget italics and decorative fonts.
• Don't demonstrate your Desk Top Publishing (DTP) skills by adding an ornate border – remember you're not applying for a job as a graphic designer; you want to be noticed for what you say, not how you present it.
• Try to keep your CV to no more than two pages, ideally one.

Structure

• Put your name right at the top of the front page, with your contact details directly underneath include a mobile number; only include your work number if you do not mind being contacted there.
• The structure of your CV should be clear and easy to understand. Your mission is to present facts about yourself clearly and concisely!
• Use bullet points rather than complete sentences (which can sometimes lead to unnecessary wordiness).
• Your educational history, academic achievements and work experience should be listed in reverse order – university degree should come before your school exam results.
• Never leave gaps – if you took a year out, or carried out interim assignments, say so - otherwise, employers can suspect the worst - perhaps you got sacked, or were even in prison! Leave nothing to chance.
• Leave your hobbies and interests until last – and keep this section short.

Double-check and proofread

• Check your CV carefully - always run a spell check over it carefully - and re-read to check it also makes sense; ask a friend to check it too - mistakes are not always as obvious to the person who made them.
• Simply staple the pages together - comb bindings and plastic wallets are irritating as they often do not fit in in-trays, so can end up separated from the other CVs.
• Send your CV off in a good quality, clearly addressed A4 envelope and send it first class to indicate efficiency.
• Remember, your CV is the first impression your potential employer will have of you. Take the time to get it right. You may not have a second chance.
• Finally, know who it is you're meeting, where and how to get there.