Putting your CV together

Your CV is like a shop window - you need to display your best bits. Follow our top tips to get your CV looking its best before sending it off to potential employers.

Format
Keep it clear and concise. Bullet points always help, as does a clear font. Never go for style for substance.

Content
Keep it lean. Think of it as showing the highlights, if they want the full story they'll invite you to an interview.
Make it specific to the role you're applying for. Potential employers want to see why you'd be good for them, not why you'd be good for the agency that you applied to last week.
Never lie. You will be found out and made to look a fool at interview stage.

Profile
This is a chance to introduce yourself as a person. Try not to be too generic, focus on things that make you different, everybody enjoys socialising....

Work History
Employer name, job title and dates are crucial; full postal addresses, company history and boss's birthday aren't. Potential employers are only interested in what you have done; don't let that get lost in amongst paragraphs of irrelevant company history.

List your responsibilities, key skills and achievements for each role you've had as they will all be slightly different and show a wider range of your abilities.

Education
Academic achievements and qualifications are important, but they speak for themselves. Keep the details concise.