CV Writing skills

Curriculum Vitae A summary of a job applicant's professional experience and educational background, along with other relevant information regarding the candidate's qualifications Source: www.businessdictionary.com/definition/curriculum-vitae.html

Why use a CV When applying for an advertised position which specifies ‘send a CV to …’ When applying to potential employers where when not in response to a formal advert To keep a record of your skills and experience. It is always a good idea to keep an updated CV – you never know when you’ll need it even if you’re not actively looking for a job!

Remember: Think about YOU Think about the ROLE Skills Experience Education Attributes Think about the ROLE Requirements Role Company

Skills Communication IT Skills Team work Influencing Flexibility Financial awareness Co-ordination Organisation Initative Problem solving

What goes on a CV? Name, address and contact numbers Personal details Name, address and contact numbers Personal profile This section should demonstrate your skills and attributes, achievements and career aims and should grab the reader’s attention. Avoid generalisations and over used terms such as motivated, creative, enthusiastic, track record, passionate, successful, driven, leadership, strategic, extensive experience (according to LinkedIn – 10 over-used buzz words) Education and training Put most recent first and work your way back. It is important to include the university/school attended, the dates, the qualifications gained and grades awarded. You might want to put them into a table to keep it neat, particularly if there are a lot.

Continued… Employment history and work experience Start with most recent first, listing the employer, the dates which you worked for them, your job title and the main duties performed. Again, you may find it neater to put it into a table. This is a good opportunity to bring out relevant skills and experiences in the job description and person specification. Demonstrate things which you achieved or contributed towards. Also include any volunteering and work experience as long as it is relevant and you can show how skills have been developed. Interests Include here any hobbies, interests and achievements relevant to the skills you are trying to demonstrate. Being part of a club may demonstrate that you enjoy meeting new people, sports can demonstrate that you are fit and healthy and have a healthy attitude to competition, volunteering may have developed communication skills. Additional information You can use this section for anything relevant which has not yet been included, such as a clean UK driving licence or speaking another language. References Include two references from most recent employers, school or university. If you don’t have two use a responsible person who has known you for a period of time.

Activity What skills do YOU have? Write down as many skills as you can and how/why you gained them. Discuss with your friends about what you came up with. They may recognise that they have those skills too or suggest things you have not thought about!

Any questions?