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How to write a CV?

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3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Sep 28,2023 01:18 PM IST

Candidates can benefit immensely by learning how to write a CV, as it’s their first chance to promote themselves to an employer. A CV is a short, written summary of skills, achievements and experience related to the job role.

Recruiters only spend eight seconds looking at the CV, so one has to be sure that it stands out for all the right reasons. A CV should ensure that the application is progressed to the interview stage. A CV stands for curriculum vitae, a Latin phrase meaning ‘course of life’, and is a document used for applying for jobs.

It summarizes the candidate’s education, skills and relevant work experience, enabling them to successfully sell their abilities to potential employers. Alongside the CV, employers may also ask for a cover letter. A cover letter acts as a personal introduction and helps to sell the application.

Does one need a CV or a Resume?

The usage of a resume and a CV depends on the location, as both are used interchangeably in Europe, but in the United States, it’s a bit different. Along with LOR, a CV or a resume needs to be enlisted.

• A resume is a one-page summary of work experience and background to the job one is applying for.

• A CV, meanwhile, is a longer academic diary that includes all their experience, publications and more.

• The major difference is that a resume is about one page or a maximum of two, whereas a CV can be longer.

• A resume is used for job hunting in all industries, and a CV is used for jobs and admissions in academia.

• The resume is tailored to the specific job one is applying for, and a CV is a comprehensive overview.

How to write a CV?

There are different CV styles. Out of these, one should be used that best matches the role, and the stage candidate is in their life or career.

Traditional CV or Chronological CV

It lists the work and education history, starting with the most recent.

Skills-based or targeted CV

It focuses on the job-related skills and the personal qualities.

Technical CV

It is used in professions like IT and engineering and highlights the skills that are important in the relevant industry.

Creative CV

It is used in creative and digital arts and can link to an online portfolio, contain video or infographics, or include digital tools that make it stand out from the others.

Academic CV

It’s generally longer than a traditional or skill-based CV and is often used for teaching and research careers.

What should be included in a CV?

A CV includes some additional information as compared to a resume and is mostly written in a detailed manner.

Contact details

Full name, home address, mobile number and email address should be included. There could also be an online portfolio link, networking profile and a website within the contact details.

Profile

A CV profile is a concise statement that highlights the key attributes and relevant achievements and skills while expressing the career aims. A good CV profile focuses on the sector one is applying to, as the cover letter will be job-specific.

Education

List and date all previous education, including professional qualifications, and place the most recent first.

Work experience

List the work experience in reverse date order, ensuring everything relevant to the job is mentioned. Job title, name of the company, duration with the organization and key responsibilities should be included.

Skills and achievements

Skills like the number of languages spoken or any skill relevant to the job should be mentioned. Achievements should not be exaggerated, as one must back up the claims at the interview.

Interests

Relevant interests can provide a more complete picture of who the candidate is, as well as something to talk about at the interview. Good examples could be writing one’s own blog, community newsletters, etc.

References

It can be mentioned that ‘references are available upon request’, but most employers would assume this to be the case, so if one is stuck for space, one can leave this out.

Tips for writing a good CV

After comprehending what the difference between a CV and a resume, some tips could be handy for writing a good CV.

how to write a good cv.webp

Use active verbs when possible

Include words like ‘created’, ‘analysed’, and ‘devised’ to present oneself as an individual who shows initiative.

No spelling or grammar mistakes

Use a spell checker and enlist a second pair of eyes to check over the document.

Avoid generic, over-used phrases

Instead of the terms ‘team player’, ‘hardworking’, and ‘multitasker’, provide real-life examples demonstrating all the skills.

Don’t lie or exaggerate on the CV or job application

Not only will you demonstrate dishonesty to a potential employer, but there can be serious consequences, too.

Always include a cover letter unless the employer states otherwise

The cover letter will enable to personalize the application. It can be utilized to draw attention to a particular part of the CV.

For more detailed information on how to write a CV, get complete assistance from Canam Consultants, the leading overseas consultants.

Conclusion

Essentially, a CV is the first part of the job search process and should be a brief account of one’s education, qualifications, and previous employment. It is a form of personal marketing, and so one should make sure that when they write a CV, it should show them in the best light. Candidates should conduct sincere research on how to write a CV and then proceed with the process of writing it well.

Also read: How to write a statement of purpose

FAQ

Does a CV need a signature?

It can be added. The candidate’s signature should be hand-written and could be scanned or photographed if sent electronically.

How many pages of CV is allowed?

Most recruiters agree that the average golden length for a CV is two or three pages. Though it is always best to keep it crisp.

What is most important in a CV?

The essentials are most important, which include contact information, resume summary, work experience, education and skills.

What is the golden rule for CV?

Relevance is always the number one rule one should follow when building a CV. It will ensure that everything mentioned is relevant to the role.

Which format is used for CV?

Submitting a CV as a PDF file is among the most popular choices for many candidates and hiring companies.

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How to write a CV?

Table of Contents

Does one need a CV or a Resume?

How to write a CV?

Traditional CV or Chronological CV

Skills-based or targeted CV

Technical CV

Creative CV

Academic CV

What should be included in a CV?

Contact details

Profile

Education

Work experience

Skills and achievements

Interests

References

Tips for writing a good CV

Use active verbs when possible

No spelling or grammar mistakes

Avoid generic, over-used phrases

Don’t lie or exaggerate on the CV or job application

Always include a cover letter unless the employer states otherwise

Conclusion

FAQ

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Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

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