In the UK a curriculum vitae is typically a two page document that is used to apply for job vacancies. The main objective of a CV is to provide prospective employers with key information about job applicants. CVs will include a summary of a jobseekers work experience, education, knowledge and abilities.

 

Why a well written and professional curriculum vitae is important
As they are the first point of contact with prospective employers they should be written to a high professional standard.

For maximum results it should contain industry related buzz words and also be relevant. Always target your curriculum vitae to the vacancy that you are applying for. This may mean you having to write out many different CVs but it will be more effective than sending out the same resume to every employer.

 

How to write a curriculum vitae
Try to see your application from the perspective of the hiring manager. Write your CV so that it impresses the reader. There are two main types of CV formats you can use, they are the Chronological CV and the Functional CV. Deciding which one is best for you depends on your career history and your present circumstances.

When writing your curriculum vitae try to make in interesting and easy to read, after completing it check the spelling and grammar. Remember if it contains spelling mistakes then it will be binned pretty quickly.

 

The layout of a curriculum vitae
In the UK a CV should be no longer than two pages. Sections must be laid out in a orderly manner with relevant information easy to find. Although there are many different CV layouts that you can use, it is always best to keep it simple.

 

Personal details
Give your name, address, telephone number and email.

 

Career statement
This is just one paragraph where you will briefly list your goals and objectives as well as highlight your skill sets and experience that matches the job you are applying for. Its a opportunity for a jobseekers to mention what kind of position they are interested in as well as point out how you can be a asset to a company.

 

Areas of expertise
Use bullet points to emphasis areas of expertise and special skills. Only put down those core abilities that are relevant to the job that you are applying for.

 

Career history
List in detail your previous work experience. In it again focus on showing those duties and responsibilities that you performed that are relevant to the job. Show progression and promotion through your career, as well demonstrating that you have the required skills and experience a recruiter is looking for.

 

Academic qualifications
In date order list your education and the certificates that you have gained. To save space on your CV there is no need to go into too much detail, simply give:

  • The awarding bodies.
  • Subjects you have studied.
  • Dates.

 

References
A simple sentence such as ‘References – available on request’ will do here.

 

Related CV topics:

Curriculum vitae template

Difference between CV and resume