How to write a top-quality CV
Presentation
First, of all it needs to be presentable because CV presentation and first impressions count.

You therefore need to consider CV layout, and if design is not your forte then it may be an idea to use a CV template. Please note that quality of CV templates varies enormously, and some are far better than others. There is no value whatsoever in applying for jobs with a CV which just doesn't look the part. Use a substandard or free CV template and your CV could well go straight in the bin.

CV Content
Once you are happy that your CV looks the part you can start on what is undoubtedly the hardest aspect of all - writing it!
If you ask most people how to write a CV they will tell you to include several or all of the following:

• personal details
• personal profile
• work experience
• skills
• competencies
• achievements
• action words
• keywords
• interests
• qualifications
• professional training
• memberships
• technical skills
• objectives
• references
 and more!

However, when most people try to do this they end up with a CV which is not focused, is too long, and is sending out mixed messages . You therefore need to be selective, and keep the job and employer in mind. You also need to remember that your CV is effectively a sales document- selling you! And you are hardly going to sell anything (let alone yourself ) if you just include everything in the above list haphazardly. You need method, logic and structure. On top of this, you also need a way with words, first-class communication skills and excellent English. Indeed, sometimes even one grammatical error is enough to tip the balance against you.

It is a very competitive job market, and employers can pretty much pick and choose. You therefore need to be meticulous enough to get it right - and get it right first time.

You should effectively be aiming to tell the employer the things that he/she wants to hear in the most powerful manner. Your CV should be highly presentable, extremely well worded and very relevant. It should also be a good length. Current trends are for one or two pages maximum. Indeed, the best CVs say more all but with fewer words.

Just as with lots of things, CV writing is far harder than it looks. In fact it is a specialist skill.

This is one reason why clients come to us from all around the world to help give them the advantage over their competitors .

We can help you too!

1. Order CV
2. Contact us
3. View our CV Services
4. Click here to request your free CV appraisal
   

This article is based on extracts from a book by Paul Hichens who is one of our CV Writers.
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Reproduction is prohibited without prior consent.