CAROUSEL RECRUITMENT IN AND AROUND LONDON
CV Builder
There are many schools of thought when if comes to compiling the perfect CV. Should it be more than one page? How much information should I put on? Different fonts and type faces!!! Where do I start? Does this sound familiar – if yes then read on.
Typing a CV can be frightening, especially if you have not done one before. The hardest thing to do is to know where to begin. There is no such thing as the perfect CV or ultimate layout as the reader will select on the information displayed, how it is laid out and last but not least does this candidate have what I want! They do not have the time to search for information that may or may not be lurking within the pages of information in front of them. They pick up on salient points and the more you can make them stand out the better.
The Look and Feel of a CV
The choice of the font used for a CV is a personal one but sometimes it is better to use a font that is universally available. Carousel has used Times New Roman for this fact sheet and would recommend that it be used when compiling your own CV. It is clear and legible and does not detract from the information being given.
Personal Details
These can either go at the top or the foot of the CV. Communication is key so when detailing your personal data, please ensure that all information is correct as this is the first point of contact for anyone wishing to interview you.
Education
As well as summarising your usual school exams, you need to set out clearly any college or university qualifications. Grades not achieved at school can be supplemented with college courses and seminars attended where professional qualifications have been achieved. Clients like to see evidence of personal achievement outside the school curriculum, which shows motivation and commitment.
Personal Profile
The personal profile should be a short paragraph, which describes your personality and abilities. This must be punchy and direct so that the reader wants to continue reading the CV with a view of offering you an interview.
Keyskills
The key skill area has been designed to enable clients to quickly scan and confirm that the software knowledge, keyboard skills and qualifications are evident and match their job specification.
Employment
Your employment record should begin with the most recent employer, start /leaving date and the type of company – Retail – Property etc. Bullet points listing your duties should follow this. It is very important that all dates run in sequence and that there are no gaps.
Juniors
If you are a junior and have no previous work experience except for weekend work or holiday employment, think about your role and then transfer it to an office environment. For instance, if you re working in a local retail store then customer service is very important as well as interaction with the public. On your CV you could write that you have had used your communication skills as well as having experience in dealing with difficult situations. Take as much as you can from your part–time employment and turn it around to suit an office environment. This can be done up until you have enough experience in the office not to use it anymore.
Mature Candidates
If you have had a lengthy career, clients still like to see a direct link back to your education. This means that dates must run in sequence and there are no gaps. Try to present your CV on two pages with your last 5 years of employment detailed. Previous to this time, it is acceptable to précis with the name of the company, dates and your position held.
Interests/Achievements
This should be short and to the point as this section will compliment the information given throughout the CV.
References
It is advisable to indicate that references can be made available on request. Most clients now take up their own references and are asked for on the application form when attending the interview.
The CV is a personal introduction to the reader about you and it is vital that you make an instant impression in order to secure an interview. If your CV is confusing or does not present the information in a clear and precise manner you run the risk of your CV being filed away under the ‘thanks but no thanks’ pile even though you may have been sufficiently qualified for the position applied for.
Carousel would like to stress that this is only a guideline and the emphasis on the presentation of a CV is a personal one and remains the responsibility of the individual.
